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Concert-lecture
Discover the hidden brilliance of Émile Goué, an extraordinary composer whose creative spirit thrived even in the darkest hours of wartime captivity. This blend of live performance and insightful commentary offers a rare gateway into his unique soundscape, perfect for anyone seeking an intimate journey through the history of French music.
Conservatoire Municipal Gabriel Fauré (Paris 5th)
About
Join the Conservatoire Municipal Gabriel Fauré for a special concert-lecture dedicated to composer Émile Goué on the 80th anniversary of his passing. On Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 18:00 to 19:00, the conservatory’s faculty will perform a selection of his piano, string, and vocal works, accompanied by insights from musicologist Philippe Malhaire. This event offers a unique look at the life and creative output of a composer who wrote half of his music while a prisoner of war. Entrance is free, and the venue in the 5th arrondissement is fully accessible to wheelchair users.
On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the death of composer Émile Goué (1904-1946), teachers from the conservatory present a concert-lecture dedicated to his work.
Émile Goué (1904-1946) holds a unique place in 20th-century French music. A science teacher and physics graduate, he simultaneously pursued intense musical activity and honed his skills in Paris under Charles Koechlin, after receiving encouragement from Albert Roussel. Mobilized in 1938, he was taken prisoner in 1940 and spent the entire Second World War at Oflag X-B in Nienburg. Despite the conditions of his captivity, he organized the musical life of the camp, gave lessons and concerts, and composed nearly half of his work. Released in 1945, he died the following year, at only 42 years old, from complications of an illness contracted in the camp.
His early style extended French post-romanticism and impressionism, with some openings towards neoclassicism. The period of captivity at Oflag X-B marked a decisive turning point: while sometimes adapting his language to the performance capabilities of his fellow prisoners, Goué developed a highly ambitious style, founded in particular on the legacy of Bach, expanded tonality, and polymodality.
On the program: works for piano, string quartet, voice, and other ensembles, allowing you to discover the different facets of the writing of this still too little-known composer.
The concert will be presented by composer and musicologist Philippe Malhaire.
Free entry subject to availability.
Our take on this event
On Saturday, November 7, 2026, the Conservatoire Municipal Gabriel Fauré hosts a concert-lecture focused on the music of Émile Goué (1904-1946). Running from 18:00 to 19:00, this event highlights the legacy of a composer whose career was cut short at age 42. Despite the hardships of his captivity at Oflag X-B during World War II, Goué produced a significant body of work. Musicologist Philippe Malhaire will present the evening, detailing how Goué’s style evolved from post-romantic and impressionist influences toward a complex language built on Bach’s heritage and polymodality.
The program features a variety of chamber music, including pieces for piano, string quartet, and voice, performed by the conservatory's teachers. This session provides a rare opportunity to appreciate the depth of an overlooked musical figure in an intimate setting. Admission is free, subject to seat availability, and the Rue de Pontoise facility is accessible for wheelchair users.
