(1803–1869)
Berlioz composed this vibrant overture in 1844 using themes from his opera Benvenuto Cellini. While the opera itself didn’t achieve widespread success, the overture quickly became a favorite, showcasing Berlioz’s mastery of orchestration and his flair for creating dramatic, vivid scenes through music. The piece opens with a bold flourish, leading into a playful and lively saltarello, a traditional Italian dance. Berlioz’s love for Italy, which he visited as part of the Prix de Rome, shines in the work, making it a celebration of both music and culture.
As we step into Valentine’s Day, this overture serves as the perfect prelude to an evening of romance. Its joyful exuberance mirrors the thrill of a festive carnival date, with couples wandering through bustling crowds, sharing laughter and stolen glances. Berlioz’s music captures the heart-pounding excitement of love in its earliest stages—a playful yet intense whirlwind that sweeps you off your feet.