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Composer

Félicien David

1810 — 1876

Dive into the Mesmerizing Musical Universe of Félicien David with STAGE+

Immerse yourself in the captivating sphere of Félicien David, a distinguished French composer, exclusively on STAGE+. David’s harmonizing symphonies compellingly encapsulate the heart and soul of the Romantic era while his work significantly contributed to the musical tapestry of the 19th century.

Discover the Enthralling Compositions of a 19th Century French Music Master

Delve into his intricate compositions, from his ground-breaking opera 'Le désert' to his elegiac 'Christophe Colomb' and his seductive 'Herculanum'. Each of these pieces underlines David’s profound grasp of storytelling through musical notes.

Notably renowned for his songs (romances) and chamber music, Félicien David’s works are sheer embodiments of his musical genius. His melodic versatility effortlessly bridges the gap between the traditional forms of expression and the demands of a fresh Romantic age audience.

Join STAGE+ today and experience the beauty and grace of Félicien David’s music that continues to fascinate classical music enthusiasts globally. Enjoy exclusive access to his most riveting compositions, handpicked for their rhythmic beauty and emotional depth.

Feel the magic of the 19th-century Romantic era come alive through the timeless works of this forgotten virtuoso. Only on STAGE+.

The Life and Works of Félicien David

Félicien David (1810–1876) was a pivotal French composer whose innovative works bridged Romanticism and the emerging Orientalist current in 19th-century French music. Widely recognized for his evocative soundscapes and explorations of exotic themes, David’s music captivated audiences and paved the way for later composers who took inspiration from foreign cultures.

A Pioneer of French Musical Orientalism

David’s journey from his early musical training in Cadenet and the Paris Conservatoire to his involvement with the Saint-Simonian movement was crucial in shaping his artistic voice. His travels through the Middle East in the early 1830s left a profound impression, introducing him to musical styles and melodies from Jerusalem, Cairo, and Syria. These “Orientalist” elements became a hallmark of his mature works and resonated strongly with the Romantic era’s fascination with the exotic and the unknown.

Landmark Works

David’s most celebrated composition, 'Le Désert,' premiered in Paris and took European audiences by storm. Combining orchestral writing, chorus, a narrator, and soloists, 'Le Désert' paints a vivid musical tableau of desert landscapes and Bedouin culture, incorporating Arabic-inspired melodies and rhythms. Its success was immediate and immense.

David composed several operas, notably 'Christophe Colomb,' 'La perle du Brésil,' 'Herculanum,' and 'Lalla-Roukh.' The latter enjoyed enduring popularity for decades, demonstrating the appeal of his exotic themes and melodic inventiveness.

His instrumental output includes at least three symphonies and chamber music such as 24 short string quintets ('Les Saisons') and two brass nonets. His choral works and oratorios further demonstrate his diverse musical talent.