Benjamin Godard

Benjamin Godard was a French composer and violinist of the late 19th century. He composed secular music in all genres and was especially known for his songs and works for violin. Godard was born in Paris in 1849, and his musical talents were obvious from a very young age. His first musical instruction came from violinist Richard Hammer, and in 1859 he enrolled at the Paris Conservatory, where he studied composition with Henri Reber. He also received lessons from Henri Vieuxtemps, the renowned violinist and educator. After Godard completed his schooling around 1864, he was ve...