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Georges AuricFrench composer, member of the creative association 'The Six'
Date of Birth: 15.02.1899
Country:  France |
Content:
- Georges Auric: A Dynamic French Composer
- Collaboration with the Ballets Russes
- Cinematic Success
- Other Musical Contributions
- Leadership and Legacy
Georges Auric: A Dynamic French Composer
Early Life and EducationGeorges Auric was born on February 15, 1899, in Lodève, France. He pursued his musical education at the Paris Conservatoire and the Schola Cantorum, studying under Vincent d'Indy. However, Auric found the teachings of d'Indy and the conservatism of the Conservatoire uninspiring.
Collaboration with the Ballets Russes
Despite his dissatisfaction with formal education, Auric's talent caught the attention of Sergei Diaghilev, the impresario of the Ballets Russes. This collaboration resulted in the ballet Les Facheux (1924), where Auric adapted music from his earlier work for Molière's play of the same name. Auric's association with the Ballets Russes continued with two additional ballets, Les Matelots (1925) and Pastorale (1926).
Cinematic Success
Auric quickly gained renown as a film composer, particularly in England. His most notable scores include those for Caesar and Cleopatra (1945), Dead of Night (1945), Hue and Cry (1946), and The Lavender Hill Mob (1951). Auric also provided the music for the American film Moulin Rouge (1952), which features his famous waltz, arguably his best-known work.
Other Musical Contributions
Beyond film scores, Auric composed a range of concert works, including the Overture of 1938, the Piano Sonatina of 1923, and the Sonata of 1932. He also served as a literary critic for newspapers such as Marianne and Paris Soir.
Leadership and Legacy
In 1950, Auric created the ballet Phèdre, showcasing his versatility and depth as a composer. In 1954, he became president of SACEM (the French Society of Authors, Composers, and Publishers of Music). From 1962 to 1968, he served as General Director of both the Paris Opéra and Opéra-Comique. Georges Auric passed away in Paris on July 23, 1983, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a prolific and influential French composer.
