Georges Bizet (1838 – 1875)

Georges Bizet’s story ought to have been a very straightforward one. It was clear to everyone who met him just how brilliantly and excitingly talented he was. He was also fortunate to live and work in Paris, a city laden with musical opportunities in the mid-nineteenth century. Donald Macleod shows how Bizet’s life proved more challenging and event-filled than anyone might have expected – and that success can never be guaranteed!

Music Featured:

Carmen (extracts) Symphony in C, III. Scherzo Le Docteur Miracle: Overture L'Arlesienne Suite No. 2 (arr. Guirand), IV. Farandole Te Deum Roma, II. Allegro Vivace & III. Andante molto Vasco da Gama: Aria, “Ouvre ton Coeur” Les Pêcheurs de Perles: Duet,“Au fond du temple saint” La jolie fille de Perth: choeur de la Saint-Valentin (Act 4) Variations chromatiques Jeux d'enfants: No 3 ‘La poupée’ Djamileh: Overture L'Arlesienne Suite No. 1: I. Prelude & II. Minuetto Patrie Overture

Presented by Donald Macleod Produced by Chris Taylor

For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Georges Bizet (1838 – 1875) https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001h57j

And you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z