Francis Poulenc

Francis Poulenc was a prominent French composer known for his significant contributions to 20th-century music. Largely self-taught, he was a member of "Les Six," a group of composers who rejected the emotionalism of 19th-century Romanticism and the Impressionism of Claude Debussy. Poulenc’s work is celebrated for its wit, lyricism, and versatility, ranging from comic operas like Les Mamelles de Tirésias to profound religious compositions such as his Stabat Mater. He was also a prolific songwriter, deeply influenced by his collaboration with baritone Pierre Bernac. During World War II, he participated in the French resistance, notably composing Figure humaine to reflect that spirit. His opera Les Dialogues de Carmélites remains one of the most highly regarded operas of the 20th century.