Jacques Aubert (1689-1753) was a French violinist and composer whose prolific output shaped the style galant of the early 18th century. A member of the royal band under Louis XIV and later Louis XV, he wrote over 80 works for violin, establishing himself as a significant figure in establishing the French violin repertoire during a pivotal moment of instrumental innovation.
Why we love this
Aubert's tambourins capture the dance-like energy and ornamental clarity of the French Baroque without demanding virtuosic athleticism from players. The two-page format makes it an ideal pairing with other short French works, and the style rewards attention to articulation and phrasing rather than technical display.
What to expect
Bright and courtly, with the kind of restless elegance that defines French Baroque keyboard music transplanted to the violin. The rhythmic drive carries forward through ornamental passages that feel natural rather than showy, inviting the player to inhabit a world of refined restraint.
Who it's for
Students working through Baroque violin literature who have a secure handle on first position playing and basic articulation. This piece sits well for upper elementary or early intermediate players exploring style and phrasing beyond the most fundamental repertoire.
How to get the most out of it
Lean into the rhythmic precision of the opening figure; let the crisp articulation define the character rather than rushing through the phrasing.
Shape phrases around the ornamental passages with thoughtful rubato, allowing the ear to settle on the harmonic turns without losing the underlying pulse.
Balance the melodic line against accompaniment voices so that the dance-like momentum stays present even when the texture thickens.
How to use it
Pair this with other French works from the galant period to build a short suite program that illustrates the national keyboard and violin styles that flourished in Louis XV's court. Its modest length makes it valuable for filling a program gap or serving as a vehicle for exploring ornamentation and stylistic nuance in a single rehearsal or lesson unit.
Skills your students will build
French articulation and style conventions in the Baroque period
Ornamentation execution (turns, trills, and grace notes appropriate to the style)
Phrasing and rubato within a metric framework
Single-line melodic shaping with attention to harmonic rhythm
You May Also Like
Scan to Complete Your Purchase
Use your phone's camera to scan the code below
You'll log in on your phone and the order will be added to your account
