Billy Budd

In a recent production by Opéra de Lyon, British conductor Finnegan Downie Dear skillfully directs the orchestra and choir to narrate the tragic fate of the young hero imagined by Herman Melville. Photo: Jean-Louis Fernandez. Published on May 4, 2026 at 5:00 PM. 1797, somewhere on the boundless sea. Captain Vere, adored by his crew, cannot prevent the execution of young Billy Budd, a paragon of physical and moral beauty whose fate was sealed by the malicious Claggart. Inspired by a Herman Melville short story, Benjamin Britten’s “Billy Budd” is a jewel of an opera completed in 1964.

This captivating production at Opéra de Lyon sees British conductor Finnegan Downie Dear masterfully conducting the orchestra and male voices, highlighting eloquent instrumental solos and guiding choral dynamics. This article is reserved for subscribers. To access the full content, you can subscribe for €9.99 per month with no commitment, cancellable anytime. An exclusive offer is also available: €0.99 per month for the first 3 months. See all subscription offers here. Sections: Radio & Podcasts, France Musique, Opéra de Lyon, Classical & Opera. You can also read the digital magazine online.

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