Francis Poulenc

Francis Poulenc (1899-1963) was a French composer and pianist, renowned as one of the founding members of the composer group "Les Six." Born into a wealthy Parisian family, Poulenc received his musical training initially through private lessons, later advancing as a largely self-taught musician. His early compositions are noted for their light, often playful nature but gradually incorporated a deeper emotional and religious dimension, especially following the death of his close friend, composer Pierre-Octave Ferroud, and his own reversion to the Catholic faith in the 1930s.

Poulenc's body of work spans a wide range of genres, including operas (with "Dialogues des Carmélites" being among the most famous), art songs, chamber music, piano pieces, orchestral works, and sacred music, which is considered the pinnacle of his output. Despite his success, Poulenc struggled with personal demons, including his homosexuality, which he navigated in a less accepting era. His music, often characterized by a unique blend of melancholy and playfulness, reflects the complexity of his personality and life experiences.