Sapho (Gounod)

Sapho is an opera in three acts by Charles Gounod, premiered 16 April 1851 at Salle Le Peletier of the Paris Opera. The libretto was by Émile Augier after the life of the poet Sappho of Lesbos. The creation of the work was given an impetus by, and provided a central role for, the mezzo-soprano Pauline Viardot.

It was presented only nine times in its initial production, but was a succès d'estime for the young composer, with the critics praising Act 3 in particular. It was later revised to two acts on 26 July 1858, and revised again to 4 acts at the Palais Garnier on 2 April 1884, achieving a total of 48 performances.