Francis Poulenc

Bio

Francis Poulenc (1899–1963) was a French composer and pianist whose music bridged the clarity of neoclassicism with the sensuous harmonies of impressionism. A member of the informal group known as Les Six, he wrote prolifically for voice, piano, chamber ensembles, and orchestra, producing works such as the Concerto for Two Pianos, the Gloria, and the opera Dialogues des Carmélites. Born and raised in Paris, Poulenc remained active as a performer throughout his life, premiering many of his own piano and chamber pieces. His catalogue spans light-hearted mélodies and sacred choral music, all characterized by lucid textures and buoyant rhythms that made him one of the most performed French composers of the twentieth century.