Jules Massenet (1842-1912) was one of the most prolific and popular French opera composers of the late 19th and early 20th century. Educated at the Paris Conservatoire, Massenet was a master of the theatre, with a strong understanding of the voice, orchestration, and drama. Though he is thought of primarily for his 40 operas, he also wrote orchestral suites, choral music, and more than 200 songs.

Stylistically, Massenet is most closely associated with Gounod, and his music is strongly based on soaring melody. His interest in orchestration is probably due in part to Wagner. The contemporary Parisian interest in the exotic was also an influence in Massenet’s music, which sometimes evokes far-away destinations.