Georges Bizet (zhorzh    bee-ZAY)

Born on October 25, 1838 in Paris

Died on June 3, 1875

Nationality: French

Period/Style: Romantic

About the composer:

Georges Bizet loved the theatre.  Not a movie theatre, but one where you might go to see a play or an opera (perhaps like the Frauenthal in Muskegon or Civic Theatre in Grand Rapids). Bizet was one of many French composers who became fascinated with the culture of Spain and wrote music that reflected their impressions of Spain. An opera is a story that is acted out on stage, but the actors sing their lines instead of speaking them. “Carmen” is the title character in the opera and the story that takes place in Spain.  It has become one of the most loved operas of all time.

About the music:

Opera “Carmen” (excerpts)

This is an orchestral suite drawn from melodies in the opera “Carmen.”  Since the story of Carmen is set in Spain, you will hear many beautiful Spanish melodies and rhythms.  Listen for percussion instruments including drums, castanets and timpani.

Opera “L’arlesienne” (lar-lay-zee-ENN) (excerpts)

This opera is about a girl from Arles, and the story is set in Provence, France.  It has lots of colorful music in many different styles.  Listen for the fast, rhythmic parts as well as the slower, more lyrical parts.

Suggested activities:

Bizet was a French composer who wrote operas set in France and in Spain. Find out what you can about the flags of France and Spain.

Find and read the story of “Carmen.”