We have a collection of 54 arrangements for Joseph Kosma - Autumn Leaves
Which jazz standard originated as a French poem about melancholy and changing seasons? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Joseph Kosma: The Composer Behind Autumn Leaves
Joseph Kosma was a Hungarian-French composer best known for his collaboration with French lyricist Jacques Prévert on the song "Autumn Leaves" ("Les Feuilles Mortes" in French). Here are some interesting facts about Joseph Kosma and the song:
Composition of "Autumn Leaves": Joseph Kosma composed the music for "Autumn Leaves" in 1945, while Jacques Prévert wrote the original French lyrics. Later, Johnny Mercer penned the English lyrics.
International Success: "Autumn Leaves" became an international hit and has been covered by numerous artists in various languages. Some of the notable versions include those by Nat King Cole, Edith Piaf, and Eva Cassidy.
Film Connection: Joseph Kosma's composition for "Autumn Leaves" was initially used as the soundtrack for the 1946 French film "Les Portes de la Nuit" (The Doors of the Night), directed by Marcel Carné.
Versatility: While Kosma is best known for his work on "Autumn Leaves," he was a versatile composer who also contributed to the soundtracks of many other films, collaborating with directors such as Jean Renoir and René Clair.
Life in Exile: Kosma, being of Jewish descent, fled from the Nazis during World War II and settled in the United States. His collaboration with Prévert on "Autumn Leaves" occurred during this period.
Posthumous Recognition: Joseph Kosma passed away in 1969, but his legacy lives on through his timeless composition. "Autumn Leaves" remains a classic, and the song continues to be celebrated for its poignant melody and evocative lyrics.
Jazz Standard: The song has become a jazz standard, with numerous jazz musicians interpreting and improvising on its melody. The rich harmonic structure of the song has made it a favorite among jazz performers.