Lafont, Charles Philippe (1781-1839)

French violinist, singer and composer. He was at first taught by his mother, a sister of the violinist Berthaume, and he travelled to Germany with his uncle as a child, playing there with success. Later he studied with Rodolphe Kreutzer in Paris, appeared as a ballad singer at the Théâtre Feydeau, completed his violin studies with Rode, and went on tour in 1801-08. In 1808-15 he was solo violinist to the Tsar in St Petersburg, and then received a similar appointment from Louis XVIII. In 1831-39 he made lengthy tours with Herz, which were brought to an end by the carriage accident that caused his death.

Works two operas; seven violin concertos; duets for violin and piano written with Kalkbrenner, Herz and others; more than 200 songs.