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Jean-Pierre Rampal
Biography
A world-renowned flutist and conductor known for bringing the flute back to the high position it held in the 18th century. Jean-Pierre Rampal has made history by being the first flutist to attract worldwide audiences comparable to that of virtuoso pianists and string players. Although championed as a baroque music player, his programs range from the 17th century to the present day and include such styles as jazz, English folk songs, Japanese classics, and the music of India.

Jean-Pierre Rampal was born January 7, 1922 in Marseilles, France to a flutist father. His father was first flutist with the Symphony and the first flute professor at the Conservatory. Rampal's father gave him flute lessons at an early age, but never forced or encouraged his son to become a professional flutist, a decision he reached during World War II. Rampal was in medical school when the Nazis drafted him; instead of complying with the Nazi forces, he went underground and eventually ended up in Paris. At Paris, Jean-Pierre Rampal attended the National Conservatory, graduating five months later with first prize in flute playing. Upon graduating, he became the first flutist with the Paris Opera, performed solo recitals on the radio, and toured Europe with harpsichordist Robert Veryon-Lacroix.
Selected Discography