author
Arthur Hervey
1855–1922
A sharp-eyed writer on music as well as a composer, he moved easily between criticism and creation, with a special feel for French musical life. His books helped English-speaking readers discover major French composers, while his own work ranged across songs, chamber pieces, and orchestral music.
1 Audiobook
Masters of French Music
by Arthur Hervey
About the author
Arthur Hervey was an Irish composer and music critic who was born in Paris in 1855 and died in London in 1922. Sources agree that he was known not only for composing, but also for writing about music with particular authority on French composers and French musical culture.
He was originally intended for a diplomatic career, but turned instead to music, studying in London and going on to build a varied career. He wrote criticism for major newspapers and magazines, and his published books on French music helped introduce readers to figures such as Saint-Saëns and other leading composers of his time.
Alongside his journalism and books, he composed vocal, chamber, and orchestral works. Even when his own music is less remembered today, his reputation as an informed, lively interpreter of French music has kept his name in circulation.