A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Franchomme, August

by George Grove

FRANCHOMME, August [App. p.639 "August-Joseph"], born at Lille April 10, 1808, learned the rudiments of the Cello from a player named Mas, entered the Paris Conservatoire in March 1825, at once attracted the notice of Levasseur and Norblin the Professors, and in his first year took the first prize for his instrument. He then joined the orchestra of the Ambigu-comique, in 27 that of the Opera, and in 28 fixed himself at the Theatre des Italiens. In conjunction with Alard and Ch. Halle he formed an annual series of classical quartets, which held the highest rank. Franchomme was in Paris at the time of Mendelssohn's visit, in the winter of 31, and is mentioned by Hiller (Mendelssohn, 19) as one of the artists who most warmly appreciated him. They were just of an age, and knowing Mendelssohn's predilection for the cello it is not difficult to believe that they often 'made music' together. He was very intimate with Chopin, and was one of those who witnessed his last sufferings and received his latest words. Franchomme has travelled very little, and a visit to England in 1856, when he played at the Musical Union, appears to be almost his only journey. He has been Professor at the Conservatoire since Jan. 1, 1846. Franchomme's playing is remarkable for a command over technical difficulties of all kinds, very pure intonation, and a beautiful and expressive singing tone. He is the possessor of the cello of Duport, said to be the finest Stradivarius in existence, for which he gave £1000. His compositions consist chiefly of potpourris and variations, with one concerto. He has also published with Chopin a Duo on airs from 'Robert le Diable,' another with Bertini, and a third with our own Osborne. His Adagios are much esteemed. [App. p.639 "he died in Paris Jan. 22, 1884."]

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