Francis Poulenc, a composer, pianist, and public speaker, was also a connoisseur of early 20th-century poetry.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Poulenc's music was described by musicologist Claude Rostand as having "something of the monk and something of the rascal," reflecting his serious and extroverted sides.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Poulenc believed that the musical transposition of a poem must be an act of love, not a marriage of convenience.
Composer Biography
Poulenc formed a highly successful duo with baritone Pierre Bernac from 1935 to 1959, writing around 90 mélodies for him.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Poulenc stated that his greatest claim to fame would be to have "Here lies Francis Poulenc, the musician of Apollinaire and Eluard" written on his tombstone.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Poulenc considered the piano parts in his mélodies to be superior to his solo piano pieces, noting their extreme refinement.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Poulenc frequently attended poetry readings at Adrienne Monnier's bookshop, La Maison des Amis des Livres, to hear poets read their own works.
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