François Joseph Gossec (1734-1829)

He was born into a poor family in Vergnies (Hainault). He composed melodies while herding cattle. He accompanied himself on an old wooden shoe to which he had fastened a few strings made of horsehair. The village priest, who had noticed the boy's talent, sent him to Walcourt and Antwerp for further education. In 1751 he went to Paris, where he enjoyed great fame during his long career. He became the official musician of the revolution.