Jean Paul Égide Martini—sometimes called “Il Tedesco” or “The German” to
distinguish him from Padre Martini the famous 18th century Italian
composer and theorist—was born in Freistadt, in the Palatinate, on
September 1, 1741. His real name is Schwarzendorf. After completing the
study of the organ and serving for a while as church organist, he won a
prize for a military march for the Swiss Guard. For many years he was an
officer of a Hussar regiment. During this military service he completed
an opera, _L’Amoureux de quinze ans_ (successfully introduced in Paris
in 1771) and a considerable amount of band music. After leaving the
army, he served as music director for the Prince of Condé and the Comte
d’Artois; as conductor at the Théâtre Feydeau in Paris; and as Inspector
and teacher of composition at the Paris Conservatory. He died in Paris
on February 10, 1816.
The composer of twelve operas, some church music and many songs, Martini
is today remembered for a single song—the eloquent and tender love
melody, “_Plaisir d’amour_,” written originally for voice and harp, and
arranged by Berlioz for voice and orchestra. Since Berlioz’ time it has
enjoyed numerous instrumental adaptations. Effective use of the song, as
recurring theme music, was made in the American motion picture starring
Irene Dunne and Charles Boyer, _Love Affair_ (1939).