Florent Schmitt (1870–1958) was a distinguished French composer, whose work bridged the late Romantic era and the early modernist movement of the 20th century. Born in Meurthe-et-Moselle, Schmitt studied at the Paris Conservatoire, where he was a contemporary of Debussy and Ravel, and learned composition under the guidance of Massenet and Fauré. In 1900, he won the coveted Prix de Rome, which afforded him the opportunity to study at the Villa Medici in Rome, a period during which he absorbed a variety of musical influences.

Schmitt's oeuvre is substantial and varied, encompassing orchestral works, chamber music, choral pieces, piano scores, and ballets. His music often reflects an innovative use of orchestration and a penchant for exotic and sensuous harmonies. Notable compositions include "La Tragédie de Salomé," which initially earned him significant acclaim as a ballet score before he reworked it into a symphonic suite, and "Psalm XLVII," a grandiose piece for soprano, chorus, and orchestra. Although his music fell into relative obscurity after his death, renewed interest in the early 21st century has seen his works being increasingly performed and recorded, continuing to reveal the depth and originality of this once-forgotten master.

Genres

Early Modern Classical

French Romanticism

Impressionism

Post-romantic Era

Latest Release

Schmitt: La Tragédie de Salomé & Chant élégiaque

Florent Schmitt•

Frankfurt Radio Symphony Orchestra

Album - 23 Tracks - Released May 10, 2024