Gounod, Charles

Charles Gounod was born in Paris in 1818 and died in Saint-Cloud in 1893. Charles Gounod was a French composer. He wrote twelve operas, of which Faust was always the most popular; his Roméo et Juliette also remains in the international repertoire. He composed a large amount of sacred music, many songs, and popular short pieces, including his "Ave Maria" and his "Funeral March of a Marionette." He was deeply religious and, after returning to Paris, briefly considered becoming a priest. He composed prolifically, writing sacred music, songs, orchestral music, and operas. His music is still frequently performed today. His unique musical legacy lives on.