Offenbach: La belle Hélène, extraits

Jacques Offenbach, born Jacob Offenbach in Cologne in 1819, was a pioneering composer who bridged the worlds of German and French music, creating a unique and enduring legacy. As a cellist and impresario, Offenbach's influence extended far beyond his nearly 100 operettas, which defined the genre and captivated audiences throughout the 19th century and beyond. His witty and satirical works, such as "Orpheus in the Underworld" and "La Belle Hélène," cleverly parodied Parisian society and the political landscape of the Second French Empire, earning him a reputation as a composer-entrepreneur who could mock and entertain in equal measure. Offenbach's unfinished masterpiece, "The Tales of Hoffmann," remains a staple of the opera repertoire, showcasing his ability to craft memorable melodies and dramatic narratives. His innovative spirit and musical genius continue to inspire, making Jacques Offenbach a key figure in the history of operetta and a composer whose works are as relevant and enjoyable today as they were in his own time.