marc-antoine charpentier (born near paris, 1643; died sainte-chapelle, paris, 24 february 1704) was a french composer. he lived in the period known as the baroque period. his most famous music is his "te deum". this work begins with a prelude which today is extremely popular. it was the signature tune for the european broadcasting union where it was used to introduce programmes such as the vienna new year's concert and the eurovision song contest. it is often used as a voluntary for weddings.