Anne Danican Philidor (11 April 1681 – 8 October 1728) was a French woodwind player and composer of the Philidor family. Born in Paris on 11 April 1681, his grandfather and father were also professional woodwind players in the king's service.[1] Anne was named for his godfather Anne Jules de Noailles.[2] His composition "L'Amour vainqueur" was given a court performance in 1697, financially backed by his godfather.[1][2] 1702 saw him succeed his father in the king's orchestra, primarily as oboist.[1][3] In addition to his playing duties he was the king's musical librarian.[1] He assembled several hundred portfolios of music, both instrumental and operatic, several of which are well-preserved in French libraries.[1] Anne is best remembered today for having founded the Concert Spirituel, an important series of public concerts held in the palace of the Tuileries from 1725 to 1791.[1]
His compositions include a few religious pieces and two books for solo instrument and continuo which include a sonata in d-minor which has been recorded several times.[2]