Listening Event - Camille Saint Saens

Camille Saint-Saëns (1835–1921) was a French composer, pianist, organist, and remarkable child prodigy whose long career stretched from the Romantic era into the early twentieth century. Known for his dazzling technique, sharp intellect, and elegant craftsmanship, he wrote piano music that often combines brilliance with clarity, wit, and graceful melody. His five piano concertos—especially the dramatic and inventive Piano Concerto No. 2—remain among his best-known works for the instrument, alongside études, character pieces, and music for piano duet. Although Saint-Saëns could be playful, as in The Carnival of the Animals, his piano writing also reveals great refinement, energy, and a deep respect for classical form.