Charles Gounod: The French Master of Opera and Sacred Music
French composer renowned for his operas, sacred music, and the enduring melody 'Ave Maria', based on Bach.Born in Paris, Gounod won the prestigious Prix de Rome in 1839.Initially drawn to the priesthood, he ultimately dedicated himself to composition.His operas, particularly 'Faust' (1859), achieved immense international success and defined French Romantic opera.He composed significant sacred works, including masses, oratorios, and motets.Gounod spent time in England (1870-1875) following the...