Jean-Philippe Rameau

Jean-Philippe Rameau was a significant French composer and music theorist of the 18th century. Acknowledged for replacing Jean-Baptiste Lully as a prominent figure in French opera, Rameau also earned acclaim as a harpsichord composer, akin to François Couperin. His early years remain shrouded, with little known prior to his fame in the 1720s with the publication of his Treatise on Harmony. It was nearly at the age of fifty when he ventured into opera with his debut Hippolyte et Aricie in 1733 sparking controversies for its novel harmonies. Despite his success, he faced opposition during the Querelle des Bouffons in the 1750s. Post-18th century, Rameau's music fell out of favor, only to be revived in the 20th century【29†source】.