Abstract EN:

In order to revive the string quartet in France, a much appreciated genre during the second half of the age of enlightment, two projects have been carried out. Firstly a thematic catalogue of the literature of the genre published between 1750 and 1800 by forty-nine publishers, together with sixteen composers who published their own work. This catalogue allows an assessment of the quantitative importance and an evaluation of the musical interest of that literature inspired by the works of one hundred and ninety three composers. (cf. Repertoire thematique, vol. II, III, IV, V, and documents, vol. VII). The second project consists in a historical study centered on the musical milieu of the aristocratic salons, the various European schools, the prominent composers, the publishing activity and repertoire of the time. (cf. Etude historique, vol. I ; annexes, vol. VI ; partitions reconstituees, vol. VIII). The conclusions prove the existence and specificity of a string quartet French school, whose influence was to favor a growing appreciation of instrumental music on the eve of romanticism. They also lead to an understanding of the mutually enriching influences of the diverse European schools published in France, which participated in the shaping of an international style. Therefore, does the string quartet in France during the second half of the age of enlightment correspond to a French or a to a cosmopolitan art?