We have a collection of 48 arrangements for Joseph Kosma - Jacques Prévert - Autumn Leaves
What inspired Jacques Prévert to write the melancholic lyrics of "Autumn Leaves"? 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 poet and lyricist Jacques Prévert. One of their most famous works together is the song "Autumn Leaves" (Les Feuilles Mortes in French), which has become a jazz standard and has been recorded by numerous artists in various languages. Here are some interesting facts about Joseph Kosma and "Autumn Leaves":
Collaboration with Jacques Prévert: Kosma collaborated with Jacques Prévert on several film scores, and "Autumn Leaves" was originally composed as a musical theme for the 1946 French film "Les Portes de la Nuit." Later, Johnny Mercer wrote English lyrics for the song, turning it into the widely recognized version we know today.
International Success: "Autumn Leaves" became a major international hit and has been recorded by countless artists across different genres. Notable performers include Nat King Cole, Edith Piaf, Eva Cassidy, and Frank Sinatra, among others.
Jazz Standard: The song is considered a jazz standard and has been interpreted by numerous jazz musicians. Its melancholic melody and poignant lyrics evoke the feelings of autumn, making it a popular choice for jazz musicians to perform and improvise upon.
Awards and Recognition: While Kosma is primarily associated with "Autumn Leaves," he received acclaim for his contributions to French cinema. He won the Best Music award at the Venice Film Festival in 1949 for his work on the film "Le Testament du Docteur Cordelier."
Exile during World War II: Joseph Kosma, being of Jewish descent, had to flee Nazi-occupied France during World War II. He found refuge in the United States, where he continued his musical career.
Other Compositions: In addition to "Autumn Leaves," Kosma composed music for several other films, including "Les Enfants du Paradis" (1945) and "La Grande Illusion" (1937), both directed by Jean Renoir.
Legacy: Joseph Kosma's legacy is tied to his contributions to film music and his collaboration with Jacques Prévert. "Autumn Leaves" remains one of the enduring classics of 20th-century music, cherished for its timeless beauty and emotional depth.