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Celebrating Benjamin Godard: A Week of Orchestral Masterpieces at Classic 107
This week, from August 18 to 22, Classic 107 is dedicating its 1 PM hour to the enchanting orchestral works of French composer Benjamin Godard.
🎻 Benjamin Godard (1849–1895): A Life in Music
Benjamin Louis Paul Godard was born on August 18, 1849, in Paris, France. A child prodigy on the violin, he entered the Paris Conservatoire at the age of 14, studying under renowned violinist Henri Vieuxtemps and composer Napoléon Henri Reber. His early musical education laid the foundation for a prolific career as a composer and performer.
Throughout his life, Godard composed a diverse range of works, including eight operas, five symphonies, two piano concertos, two violin concertos, three string quartets, and over 100 songs. His compositions are characterized by their melodic richness and emotional depth, reflecting the Romantic era's emphasis on expressive music.
One of his most celebrated works is the opera Jocelyn, premiered in 1888. The opera is particularly renowned for its "Berceuse" (lullaby), a piece that has become a staple in the violin repertoire. Jocelyn exemplifies Godard's ability to blend lyrical melodies with dramatic storytelling.
In 1887, Godard was appointed as a professor at the Paris Conservatoire, further solidifying his influence on French music. Two years later, he was honored with the title of Chevalier of the Légion d'Honneur in recognition of his contributions to the arts.
Despite his success, Godard's life was cut short by tuberculosis. He passed away on January 10, 1895, in Cannes, at the age of 45. His legacy endures through his compositions, which continue to be performed and appreciated for their melodic beauty and emotional expressiveness
🎼 Monday, August 18: Piano Concerto No. 1 in A minor, Op. 31
We kick off the week with Godard's Piano Concerto No. 1, performed by Howard Shelley and the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. Composed in 1875, this concerto is a vibrant example of late Romanticism. The first movement opens with a dramatic motif, leading into a lively allegro, while the second movement offers a lyrical contrast with its Andante quasi adagio. The finale returns to a spirited vivace, showcasing Godard's flair for both grandeur and nuance.
🎻 Tuesday, August 19: Symphony No. 2 in B-flat major, Op. 57
On Tuesday, we present his Symphony No. 2, conducted by David Reiland with the Munich Radio Orchestra. Premiered in 1880, this symphony is a testament to Godard's mastery in orchestral writing. The work unfolds with a lively allegro, followed by a somber lento, a spirited vivace, and concludes with an allegro con moto, reflecting the composer's rich melodic language and structural clarity.
🎹 Wednesay, August 20: Piano Concerto No. 2 in G minor, Op. 148
Returning to the piano, we feature Godard's Piano Concerto No. 2, Op. 148, with Howard Shelley leading the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. Composed in 1893, this concerto begins with a somber theme that recurs throughout the work, providing a cohesive narrative. The second movement's Andante offers a reflective contrast, while the finale brings the concerto to a vigorous conclusion.
🎻 Thursday, August 21: Concerto Romantique, Op. 35
Violinist Chloë Hanslip performs Godard's Concerto Romantique, Op. 35, with the Slovak State Philharmonic under conductor Kirk Trevor. Premiered in 1876, this concerto is a lyrical showcase for the violin, featuring a blend of expressive melodies and virtuosic passages. The work's dedication to violinist Marie Tayau highlights its deep connection to the instrument's expressive capabilities.
🎶 Friday, August 22: Symphonie Gothique, Op. 23
We conclude the week with Godard's Symphonie Gothique, Op. 23, conducted by David Reiland with the Munich Radio Orchestra. Composed in 1874, this symphony reflects a fascination with medieval themes and structures. Its rich orchestration and dramatic contrasts make it a compelling example of Godard's ability to evoke atmosphere and emotion through music.
Benjamin Godard's works, though not as widely known today, offer a rich tapestry of Romantic expression. Through this week-long celebration, we invite you to rediscover his contributions to the orchestral repertoire. Tune in each day at 1 PM on Classic 107 to experience these timeless masterpieces.