The City of Light

Donald Macleod explores the highs and lows of Chopin and George Sand’s shared lives in Paris, where they were surrounded by their friends.

Early in 1837, Franz Liszt introduced Chopin to a woman who would have a profound influence on his life. Her name was George Sand and Chopin’s relationship with the novelist would go on to stretch for almost a decade and prove to be the longest romantic bond of the composer’s life, and a defining creative relationship for both of them. Over the course of this week, Donald Macleod explores the intertwined lives of these two key figures in French romantic-era life.

In Thursday’s programme, Donald explores the highs and lows of Chopin and George Sand’s shared lives in Paris, where they were surrounded by their friends, a group with representatives of the arts, intellectual power, political position, aristocratic tradition, and enormous wealth - the elite of France. Donald also explores how Chopin and Sand fell out with Liszt and his mistress Marie d’Agoult.

Polonaise in A flat major, op.53 ‘Heroique’
Vladimir Horowitz, piano

Piano Sonata No. 2 in B flat minor, op.35
Julien Brocal, piano

Polonaise A major, op.40 ‘Military’
Rafal Blechacz, piano

Ballade no 4 in F minor, op.52
Khatia Buniatishvili, piano

Producer: Sam Phillips