Massenet: Manon, extraits

Jules Massenet, born in 1842, was a titan of French opera, crafting over thirty works for the stage that continue to captivate audiences today. His melodic genius and theatrical flair made him the leading operatic composer of his time, with masterpieces like "Manon," "Werther," and "Thaïs" standing as testaments to his enduring appeal. Massenet's music is renowned for its lyricism, sensuality, and emotional depth, drawing influences from the likes of Berlioz and Wagner. Beyond his operatic achievements, Massenet also composed oratorios, ballets, and orchestral works, leaving an indelible mark on the Romantic era. His legacy as a professor at the Paris Conservatoire and a member of the Académie des Beaux-Arts further cemented his status as a pillar of French musical culture. Massenet's compositions, marked by their rich harmonies and vivid orchestration, offer a journey through the heights of human emotion, making him a composer whose works continue to enchant and inspire.