Camille Saint-Saëns

Camille Saint-Saëns was a French Romantic composer, conductor, and organist. Raised in Paris in the mid-19th century, Saint-Saëns's was at the center of the French musical world, and was something of a musical prodigy. After his debut, aged 10, he went on to study at the Paris Conservatoire.

Along with many instrumental works, Saint-Saëns also wrote twelve operas. His works were primarily grand operas, such as Henry VIII one of his most popular works in his life time. His style was greatly influenced by the German Romantic school, particularly the works of Richard Wagner, and Robert Schumann. Now, he is best remembered for his opera Samson et Dalila, which premiered in 1866.