* One of the most influential works of music in the Romantic period
* Programmatic symphony that tells the story of a young artist's obsession with an unattainable woman
* Uses a number of innovative compositional techniques, including the idée fixe (a musical theme that represents the young artist) and the use of two orchestras
2. Harold en Italie (1834)
* Symphony composed for solo viola and orchestra
* Inspired by Lord Byron's poem _Childe Harold's Pilgrimage_
* Programmatic work that evokes the landscapes and emotions of Italy
3. Grande messe des morts (Requiem) (1837)
* Large-scale choral work composed for nearly 400 performers
* One of the most popular requiems in the world
* Known for its dramatic and expressive vocal writing and its use of spatial effects
4. Roméo et Juliette (1839)
* Dramatic symphony based on Shakespeare's play of the same name
* Uses a large orchestra and choir to create a vivid and theatrical musical experience
* Notable for its powerful love music and its tragic finale
5. La damnation de Faust (1846)
* Grand opera based on the legend of Faust
* One of the longest operas ever written, lasting close to five hours
* Known for its colorful orchestration and its memorable melodies