Royal printers. The family of Ballard

The family of Ballard had a complete monopoly on the printing (publication and distribution) of court music in France. Ballard decided not only for the conception of music collections, but also for the number intended for the public.

Ballard family was quite powerful. They jealously guarded their position and they did not tolerate any sort of rivalry, which was almost impossible because they were at the mercy of the King. For sure, first of all Ballard published the music of composers who were serving at the royal court. We can blame Ballard for the fact that it is for this reason many worthy works of less known and non-court composers had not survived, but thanks to Ballard we can have a full view about the court music - what sort of music it was and how it was developing.

And something about Robert Ballard Jr.

Robert Ballard Jr. was a lute player and composer. He was born in Paris about 1572-1575. In 1612 he entered the service of the Queen Regent - Maria Medici. Also he taught music the young King Louis XIII.

Author: Alisia Holainen

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