Berlioz / Debussy / GounodBerlioz / Debussy / Gounod

Hector Berlioz entered the scene in a difficult post-Beethoven period. Although he admired Beethoven, he went his own way. Significant milestones on this path are the colossal grand operas with their many symphonic intermezzi. The Nocturnes of Claude Debussy are one of the representative works of Debussy's vigorous reform; sonority became the alpha and omega, replacing traditional harmony. Charles Gounod followed the efforts of Hector Berlioz and devoted himself to French grand opera. In addition, however, he was active in the field of sacred music, which is still a much sought-after repertoire item in France today.