Composer. A pioneer of realism in French opera, he is best remembered for his collaborations with novelist Emile Zola. Louis-Charles-Bonaventure-Alfred Bruneau was born in Paris and studied at the Conservatory there. He played cello with the Pasdeloup Orchestra before gaining recognition with his first opera, "Kerim" (1887). The following year he met Zola, forming a close friendship that lasted until the latter's death in 1902. Most of Bruneau's stage works, beginning with "Le Reve" (1891), were based on Zola subjects, with the author himself writing the librettos for "Messidor" (1897) and "L'Ouragan" (1901). To better suit the realistic texts Bruneau developed an idiosyncratic style that blended typical Gallic lyricism with Wagnerian motifs; his unorthodox use of block-chording had some influence on Debussy. His other compositions include the operas "L'Enfant roi" (1905), "Les Quartre Journees" (1916), and "Virginie" (1931), a Requiem (1896), two choral symphonies (1884, 1886), and two collections of songs. Bruneau was awarded the Legion of Honor in 1895.
Composer. A pioneer of realism in French opera, he is best remembered for his collaborations with novelist Emile Zola. Louis-Charles-Bonaventure-Alfred Bruneau was born in Paris and studied at the Conservatory there. He played cello with the Pasdeloup Orchestra before gaining recognition with his first opera, "Kerim" (1887). The following year he met Zola, forming a close friendship that lasted until the latter's death in 1902. Most of Bruneau's stage works, beginning with "Le Reve" (1891), were based on Zola subjects, with the author himself writing the librettos for "Messidor" (1897) and "L'Ouragan" (1901). To better suit the realistic texts Bruneau developed an idiosyncratic style that blended typical Gallic lyricism with Wagnerian motifs; his unorthodox use of block-chording had some influence on Debussy. His other compositions include the operas "L'Enfant roi" (1905), "Les Quartre Journees" (1916), and "Virginie" (1931), a Requiem (1896), two choral symphonies (1884, 1886), and two collections of songs. Bruneau was awarded the Legion of Honor in 1895.
Bio by: Bobb Edwards
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