Pauline Viardot-Garcia (1821–1910) was one of the most versatile and remarkable European musical artists of her time. Beyond her singing talents, she composed a large number of songs, salon operas, and instrumental music. She directed opera productions, worked as an opera manager and promoted many young composers who were then unknown, such as Charles Gounod. She was an advocate of both contemporary compositions and music from previous centuries.

Yet today, her name has lost some of its popul...