Onstage company
Documented collaborators
Harold in Italy is a landmark four-movement symphony for viola and orchestra (Op. 16 / H. 68) composed by Hector Berlioz in 1834. Commissioned by the legendary virtuoso Niccolò Paganini and inspired by Lord Byron’s Childe Harold, the work fuses symphonic scope with concerto-like boldness, placing a vivid viola solo at the heart of the narrative. Premiered in Paris on November 23, 1834 under Narcisse Girard, Harold in Italy helped shape the viola-centric concept we celebrate today. This performer page highlights the life, key recordings, and forthcoming performances that bring the work to modern audiences.