Hotteterre

Hotteterre is the name of a prominent French musical family active in Paris from the late 17th century through the 18th century. The family was particularly renowned for its instrument makers and performers, especially of woodwind instruments. The most well-known members include Jean Hotteterre (c. 1605–1691), Jacques-Martin Hotteterre (1674–1763), and Nicolas Hotteterre (1637–1694).

Jean Hotteterre was a skilled woodwind maker who established the family's reputation. His sons, particularly Nicolas, continued this tradition. Jacques-Martin Hotteterre, often referred to as "Hotteterre le Romain" (Hotteterre of Rome, though he likely never lived there) or simply "Hotteterre," was a virtuoso flutist and composer. He held positions at the French court, including serving Louis XIV and Louis XV. His compositions, primarily for the transverse flute, are significant examples of French Baroque music and are still performed and studied today. His pedagogical works also played a role in establishing performance practices for the flute. The Hotteterre family's influence extended to the design and construction of instruments, particularly the recorder and transverse flute, contributing to their development during a crucial period in the evolution of Western classical music.