Gabriel Fauré
Gabriel Urbain Fauré (born Pamiers, Ariège, Midi-Pyrénées, May 12, 1845; died Paris, November 4, 1924) was a French composer, organist, pianist, and music teacher. He was the most important French composer of his time. The way he wrote music, especially his harmonies, had a big influence on many 20th century composers. Most French composers at the time became famous by writing operas, but Faure only wrote one opera. His most important works are his French songs, chamber music and piano music. His Requiem (which includes a solo, Pie Jesu, for a treble singer or soprano) is one of the most popular of all requiems and can be performed with quite a small orchestra and choir. Other very popular pieces are his Berçeuse from the Dolly Suite for piano duet, the Sicilienne from the music for Pelléas et Mélisande, and the song Après un rêve which is sometimes also played by a solo instrument, e.g. the cello.