Giacomo Meyerbeer

The Profile

Giacomo Meyerbeer (1791–1864) was a German‑Jewish composer who became a leading figure of French Grand Opera.

Born Jakob Liebmann Beer in 1791, Meyerbeer trained in Italy, Italianized his name, and achieved major success in France. He codified elements of French Grand Opera (notably with Robert le diable) and is known for lavish theatrical scenes, prominent use of the chorus, and demanding vocal writing. His reputation suffered campaigns of denigration in the late 19th century but 20th‑century revivals (championed by artists such as Joan Sutherland) restored interest in works like Les Huguenots, Le Prophète, L'Africaine and Il Crociato in Egitto. He died in 1864.

Two detailed reviews argue Meyerbeer's central role in the development of French Grand Opera. They highlight his Italian training, lavish theatrical imagination, prominent use of the chorus, and the vocal demands of his works. Both reviews treat Meyerbeer as controversial but vital to opera's evolution.