The Album de Masini, published in 1844, is a refined collection of 12 French romances composed by Francesco Masini with lyrics by Émile Barateau. These songs epitomize the sentimental charm of 19th-century salon music, featuring expressive melodies and poetic themes of love and longing. Each piece is adorned with lithographic illustrations by artists like Achille Devéria and Jules David, enhancing the album’s artistic appeal.
Francesco Masini (1804–1863)
An Italian-born composer who made his mark in Paris, Masini was celebrated as the “Bellini of the romance” for his elegant and melancholic melodies. He composed over 400 works, often collaborating with poets such as Émile Barateau, Amable Tastu, and Laure Jourdain. His compositions were popular in Parisian salons and were frequently published in luxurious albums, sometimes accompanied by illustrations from renowned artists like Achille Devéria and Jules David.
Émile Barateau (c. 1792–1870)
A French poet and lyricist, Barateau contributed texts to numerous romances and chansons, working with composers like Masini and Auguste Panseron. His lyrics often delve into themes of love and emotional introspection, aligning well with the expressive nature of the romance genre.
Notable songs from the Album de Masini include “Je l’aimais déjà!” and “Que la mer est belle!” These pieces showcase the harmonious collaboration between Masini’s melodic compositions and Barateau’s evocative lyrics, offering a glimpse into the sentimental and artistic sensibilities of 19th-century French salon music.
The Album de Masini, published in 1844, is a refined collection of 12 French romances composed by Francesco Masini with lyrics by Émile Barateau. These songs epitomize the sentimental charm of 19th-century salon music, featuring expressive melodies and poetic themes of love and longing. Each piece is adorned with lithographic illustrations by artists like Achille Devéria and Jules David, enhancing the album’s artistic appeal.
Francesco Masini (1804–1863)
An Italian-born composer who made his mark in Paris, Masini was celebrated as the “Bellini of the romance” for his elegant and melancholic melodies. He composed over 400 works, often collaborating with poets such as Émile Barateau, Amable Tastu, and Laure Jourdain. His compositions were popular in Parisian salons and were frequently published in luxurious albums, sometimes accompanied by illustrations from renowned artists like Achille Devéria and Jules David.
Émile Barateau (c. 1792–1870)
A French poet and lyricist, Barateau contributed texts to numerous romances and chansons, working with composers like Masini and Auguste Panseron. His lyrics often delve into themes of love and emotional introspection, aligning well with the expressive nature of the romance genre.
Notable songs from the Album de Masini include “Je l’aimais déjà!” and “Que la mer est belle!” These pieces showcase the harmonious collaboration between Masini’s melodic compositions and Barateau’s evocative lyrics, offering a glimpse into the sentimental and artistic sensibilities of 19th-century French salon music.