André-Ernest-Modeste Grétry: The Melodic Architect of French Opera

Step into the world of 18th-century Paris, where music, drama, and Enlightenment ide-als converged to shape a cultural revolution. In André-Ernest-Modeste Grétry: The Me-lodic Architect of French Opera, Antoine Lacroix unravels the life and legacy of a composer who transformed the operatic stage. From his humble beginnings in Liège to his rise as a master of the French Opéra-Comique, Grétry's journey is one of resilience, innovation, and artistry. Renowned for his ability to blend humor, emotion, and compelling narrative, Grétry defined a genre that resonated with audiences from aristocrats to the burgeoning middle class. Lacroix dives deep into Grétry's creative process, exploring his groundbreaking collabo-rations with librettists, his embrace of Enlightenment ideals, and his lasting influence on the musical traditions of Europe. With vivid storytelling and meticulous research, this book offers an intimate portrait of a man whose melodies bridged the gap between drama and accessibility, making opera a voice for the people. Perfect for music enthusiasts, historians, and lovers of storytelling, this compelling bi-ography celebrates the genius of André-Ernest-Modeste Grétry-a true pioneer in the history of music.