Élisabeth de Haulteterre

Élisabeth de Haulteterre (Hotteterre) (c. 1720?–after 1768) (fl. 1737–1768) was a French composer and violinist. Despite the similarity of the name, she did not come from La Couture, the home of the Hotteterre family including Jacques Martin Hotteterre, and is probably not related. She should also not be confused with Élisabeth de Haulteterre (1738–1820) a French musician of the same name. She was known as a concert violinist, playing Jean-Marie Leclair’s sonatas at the Concert Spirituel in 1737. Her married name was Levésque. Early 18th Century French Music - A Woman’s Role Women were generally trained in opera in Paris during the Early 18th Century. Ballet and opera were on the rise during this period of time in Paris. Additionally, the Baroque era attracted patrons because of its elaborate and lush arrangements as well as the presence of the organ. During the 17th and 18th centuries, there was an increase in public secular music making as well as opportunities for women not tied directly to the church. Women began to appear in public performances often subbing for males on organ and harpsichord if they possessed the lineage and privilege to do so. Women were often seen as pianis