Philippe Basiron

Full biography Philippe Basiron

Philippe Basiron (c. 1449 - just before 31 May 1491) was a French composer , singer, and organist of the Renaissance era. He is known for his chansons, which are songs that originated in medieval France and were typically written in Old French. However, only a small number of Basiron's compositions have survived, with just over 20 chansons and a handful of motets and other works being attributed to him.

Despite his limited output, Basiron was highly regarded in his time and beyond. He was cited as an influence by later composers, such as Josquin des Prez and Antoine Brumel, and his works were widely distributed and copied in manuscripts throughout Europe. Basiron's chansons were known for their inventive and innovative style, which suggested an inherent curiosity and musical skill, and set him apart from other composers of his time.

Basiron likely received his musical training as a choirboy in the Cathedral of Bourges, where he later returned as a choirmaster. He also served as a chaplain to the Duke of Burgundy in Lille, where he likely composed and performed for the court.

Overall, Philippe Basiron was a significant figure in the early development of vocal music, especially in the realm of chanson composition. Despite the incomplete nature of his surviving work, his influence can still be felt in the works of later composers who admired and built upon his legacy.