Hugo, Victor. (1802–1885) & Gounod, Charles-François. (1818–1893)
Signed "Sérénade" Sheet Music
Framed ensemble featuring the title page of Gounod's "Sérénade" composed to a poem by Victor Hugo, signed and inscribed in the upper left corner by Hugo and Gounod: "A ma Chére Amie et interprete Francise ---- Victor Hugo / bis --- Ch. Gounod 1867." Attractively matted and framed together with photographs of both Gounod and Hugo and measuring 39 x 47 cm overall. The sheet music page toned and with some staining, but the ensemble otherwise and overall fine.Gounod's only setting of the poetry of Victor Hugo, Sérénade ('Chantez, riez, dormez') was composed in 1855 and is one of his few songs with virtuoso displays for the voice. "An Italianate vocal line of bel canto purity is the prominent element in this well-known Gounod song. It is set over a rocking accompaniment figure, which provides a lulling but somewhat sensual atmosphere for the text." (Carol Kimball, "Song: A Guide to Art Song Style and Literature," p. 163) (5396)
Signed Document/Item Classical Music