His eight sonnets perfectly represent the convergence of two art forms that Degas championed. Moreover, they offer us a glimpse into his artistic vision and creative process, adding a unique dimension to our understanding of his multifaceted talent.
Born into a bourgeois family in 1834, young Edgar received a well-rounded education before turning to painting. A traditionalist and fervent admirer of the great Italian masters in his youth, he radically changed his style and subject matter in the 1870s, joining the Impressionist movement and venturing into a hitherto unexplored world: backstage at the Palais Garnier, which he would illustrate in his famous paintings.
In our selection, created in collaboration with the Société des Amis du Musée d'Orsay, we present an anthology of contemporary musical works reminiscent of those that could have graced the stages of Palais Garnier or Salle Favart, and that offer a delightful glimpse into the artist's musical experience.
Naturally, our journey begins with Adolphe Adam, the celebrated composer of the great Romantic ballet Giselle, but here showcasing his talents as a comic opera composer! Much like Degas, musicians also transcended genres. Consider Gounod, recognized for his operas yet incorporating choreographic music like the famous Walpurgis Night from Faust, now performed regularly as an independent work. Our journey continues with Léo Delibes, composer of the opera Lakmé and the ballets Coppélia and Sylvia, as well as other versatile artists like Jules Massenet, Emmanuel Chabrier, Gabriel Fauré, and Hector Berlioz. And how can we forget Jacques Offenbach and the iconic theme from Orphée aux Enfers, now synonymous with the exhilarating "French-cancan"?
Surrender yourself to the enchanting ambiance of late 19th-century Paris, where a joyous and romantic spirit permeates the air imbued with vibrant colours and light that ignited the birth of Impressionism.
