Offenbach - Father of the Can-Can

Jacques Offenbach was a French composer and cellist who lived in the 19th century best known for his operettas which were hugely popular during his lifetime and continue to be performed today. One of his most famous compositions is the overture to "Orphée aux enfers" (Orpheus in the Underworld).

"Orphée aux enfers" is a satirical operetta that premiered in 1858 and is a parody of the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. The overture, which is also known as the "Can-Can," is one of the most recognizable pieces of music from the operetta and is often performed as a standalone piece.

The "Can-Can" is characterized by its lively and energetic rhythms, which are created by the use of syncopation and a driving bass line. The melody is catchy and memorable, making it a favorite of audiences since its premiere. The Ouverture's lively and upbeat nature is an excellent representation of Offenbach's operetta style, which was known for its wit, humor and satire.

One of the most striking features of the "Can-Can" is its use of unconventional instruments, such as the saxophones, which add a distinctive and bold flavor to the music. This use of unconventional instruments alongside the traditional orchestral instruments is a hallmark of Offenbach's style and serves to further distinguish his music from that of his contemporaries.

The "Can-Can" is significant for its role in popularizing the operetta genre. Offenbach's operettas, including "Orphée aux enfers," were hugely popular in his lifetime and helped to establish the operetta as a distinct form of musical theater. The Ouverture "Can-Can" is also significant for its influence on other forms of popular music, such as jazz, and for its ability to remain popular for more than a century.