BIOGRAPHY
Mélanie Hélène Bonis, also known as “Mel,” was born in Paris in 1858. Her skill on the piano was apparent from a young age. When she was eighteen, she was introduced to César Franck and began composition studies at the Paris Conservatory. Bonis was extremely successful during her studies at the conservatory, where she won numerous composition competitions.¹  Due to gender biases, Bonis published her works under the name “Mel.”² 

During her studies, Bonis fell in love with Amédée Hettich, a fellow student at the conservatory. Unfortunately, Bonis’ parents forbade them to marry. Heartbroken, Bonis reluctantly married Albert Domange, an older businessman who did not particularly enjoy music.³

After her marriage at age twenty-five, Bonis took a hiatus from her career to focus on raising a family. Eleven years later, in 1894, she returned to composing extensively. Bonis composed over 300 works during her lifetime, most of which were written for piano. She also wrote for chamber groups, chorus, solo voice, organ and orchestra.⁴