Nicolas Bernier (1665-1734), after studying music probably at the collegiate church in his home town Mantes-la-Jolie, went to Italy to perfect his art. In 1694, he was appointed master of music at Chartres cathedral and only returned to Paris in 1698 to serve as master of music at Saint-Germain-l’Auxerrois church. Six years later he became master of the Sainte-Chapelle in the wake of Charpentier. He held this prestigious post for 22 years and stepped down in 1726. From 1723 onwards he was assistant music master at the Royal Chapel and composed several grands motets before he died. He also wrote many petits motets and French cantatas, showing himself to be an accomplished melodist and counterpointist.
