The song cycle I Les Nuits D'Ete (Summer Nights) is a setting of six poems by composer Hector Berlioz's (1803-1869) neighbor and friend, Théophile Gautier. The text deals in themes of love in all its facets, progressing from youthful innocence to loss and renewal. Originally composed in 1841 for solo vocalist and piano, Berlioz completed orchestration of each of the six songs in 1856. While regrettably neglected for many years, this song cycle was rediscovered in the 20th century and has become ...