| Marketing Copy | Charles Gounod (1818–1893) composed his grand opera FAUST, CG 4 between 1856 and 1859, inspired by Goethe’s drama and adapted through a French libretto by Jules Barbier and Michel Carré. Premiered at the Théâtre Lyrique in Paris on March 19, 1859, the opera was initially met with modest success but quickly grew in popularity, particularly after its 1869 revival at the Paris Opéra with the addition of ballet music in Act V. The story follows the aged scholar Faust, who, in despair, makes a pact with Méphistophélès to regain youth in exchange for his soul. With his newfound vigor, he seduces the innocent Marguerite, leading to love, betrayal, and tragedy, while Méphistophélès manipulates events with dark irony. Marguerite ultimately finds redemption through faith, contrasting with Faust’s doomed fate. Its memorable arias—such as Marguerite’s “Jewel Song,” “Valentin’s Prayer,” and the “Soldiers’ Chorus”—secured its place in the international repertoire. Today, FAUST remains one of Gounod’s most enduring works, a cornerstone of French Romantic opera, admired for its lyrical elegance, dramatic intensity, and richly orchestrated score that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Instrumentation: 2(2nd d. Picc).2(2nd d. EH).2.2: 4.2(both d. Crnt).3.0: Timp.Perc(3-4): 2Hp.Org: Str(4.4.3.3.3 in set): Banda(2Tpt.2Crnt.2ATbn.Tbn.SopSaxHn.BsSaxHn.Tba): Vocal Soli (7 roles SAATTBB). Chorus. Reprint edition. |
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