My Recollections

Massenet shares personal anecdotes about his life as a composer starting from his early years at the Paris Conservatoire where he studied under Ambroise Thomas and won the prestigious Prix de Rome. He reflects on the development of his career providing behind-the-scenes insights into the creation of his most famous works and the relationships he formed with influential figures in the music world such as composers Charles Gounod and Camille Saint-Saëns. Throughout the memoir Massenet recounts his experiences in the Parisian opera scene offering a detailed look at the cultural dynamics and artistic collaborations that shaped his work. He discusses his successes including the triumphs of his operas Manon and Thaïs as well as the challenges he faced including critical receptions and personal setbacks. Massenet’s writing is infused with his characteristic charm and wit making the narrative both engaging and revealing.