Rampal, Jean-Pierre

Jean-Pierre Rampal was a French flutist who had greatly contributed to acknowledgement of flute as a solo instrument in orchestra concerts.
He studied flute at the Paris Conservatory with Gaston Crunelle and gained recognition by winning the prestigious Paris Conservatory competition with performance of Le chant de Linos by Jolivet.
He held the principal flute position at the Paris Opéra (1956-1962) and was the founding member of French Wind Quintet and Baroque Ensemble of Paris. Gradually he gained popularity as a soloist by making numerous recordings. His virtuosity combined with smooth and articulate tone and authentic approach to Baroque music made him very popular. Many composers dedicated works for him, including André Jolivet and Francis Poulenc. Rampal was known for his philosophical approach to life and music: beautiful sonority, musicality, kindness, and humanity.