The volume is the only publication of the priest-organist of Saint-Barthélemy in Paris, Pierre Dandrieu. He had bought the position using family wealth, which led to a strange attempt at revenge that included Louis Marchand, the organ builder Henri Lesclop and the uncle of Jean-Philippe Rameau.

Dandrieu’s Noëls are more familiar in versions ‘modernised’ by his famous nephew, Jean-François, yet Pierre’s music is among the more refreshing of those writing in this genre. It includes the popular À la venue de noël as well as four pieces for use at other times of the year, including two excellent Chansons de Saint-Jacques, a substantial setting of the Stabat Mater and a Nicolas Lebègue-inspired Carillons ou les cloches.

This critical edition looks at the strange (but humorous) affair of Lesclop and Marchand, using information gleaned from Parisian police dossiers. On a musical front, notes are provided on registration and performance style.