Vladimir Cosma, born in 1940, has composed more than three hundred scores for feature films and television series, establishing a career that spans both Europe and the United States. A multi-instrumentalist and conductor, he maintains dual citizenship in Romania and France, having transitioned from classical training to becoming a defining figure in film music scoring.
Early Training and Migration
Born in Bucharest, Romania, Cosma emerged from a lineage of professional musicians. His father, Teodor Cosma, worked as a pianist and conductor, while his mother, Carola Pimper, served as a writer and composer. He completed his foundational education at the National University of Music Bucharest before relocating to Paris in 1963. There, he continued his formal studies at the École Normale de Musique de Paris Alfred Cortot, working under the guidance of Nadia Boulanger.
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Cosma began his cinematic career in 1968 after Yves Robert invited him to compose the score for Alexandre le Bienheureux. This partnership initiated a career defined by collaborations with major directors including Gérard Oury, Francis Veber, Claude Pinoteau, and Jean-Jacques Beineix. His extensive catalog includes scores for films such as Le Grand Blond avec une chaussure noire, Les Aventures de Rabbi Jacob, La Boum, Le Bal, and the comedic work Le dîner de cons. His television contributions feature projects like Michel Strogoff and Mistral's Daughter.
Symphonic and Operatic Works
Beyond film, Cosma composes for the concert stage. His output includes the opera Marius et Fanny, which premiered in 2007 at the Opéra de Marseille featuring singers Roberto Alagna and Angela Gheorghiu. He has also explored La Fontaine's Fables through his composition Eh bien ! Dansez maintenant, conducted in Paris and Geneva. His instrumental repertoire comprises various concertos for violin, euphonium, and trumpet, alongside pieces for brass quintet.
Awards and Recognition
The French government recognized his artistic contributions through the Legion of Honour, awarding him the rank of Officer in 2023 following his earlier investiture as a Knight. He also holds the Romanian Order of Cultural Merit, including the rank of Grand Officer. His industry accolades include the Henri-Langlois award and a David di Donatello for Best Score, complemented by two César awards for his work on the films Diva and Le Bal.
Fast facts
- Born: 1940, Bucharest, Romania
- Citizenship: France and Romania
- Education: National University of Music Bucharest; École Normale de Musique de Paris
- Notable Opera: Marius et Fanny
- César Award Wins: Diva (1981), Le Bal (1984)
- 2023 Honor: Officer of the Legion of Honour
Questions readers ask
What is the scope of Vladimir Cosma's film work?
He has composed over three hundred scores for feature films and television series, collaborating with directors such as Francis Veber, Ettore Scola, and Pierre Richard.
Did Cosma compose music for the stage?
Yes, he composed the opera Marius et Fanny and stage works including his divertissement based on La Fontaine's Fables, Eh bien ! Dansez maintenant.
Achievements
- Knight of the Legion of Honour
- Order of Cultural Merit
- Grand Officer of the Order of Cultural Merit
- Officer of the Legion of Honour — 2023
- Instruments: violin
- Genres: opera, symphonic music and jazz
