The great composer of memorable music for numerous Jess Franco films (FEMALE VAMPIRE, MISS MUERTE) was born 100 years ago today near Paris, France. He also composed music for other director's films including CRIMSON (1975) and other Eurocine coproductions. He was heavily influenced by Debussy and could compose for orchestra, piano, other instruments (listen to his trumpet score for MISS MUERTE) and the human voice. The haunting female vocal accompanied by a piano piece in FEMALE VAMPIRE may be his signature film composition. He began composing film music in 1950 and was a key Jess Franco collaborator for over 30 years.
He also played in supporting roles in Franco's MISS MUERTE (as a police inspector), LA FILLE DE DRACULA (1972), THE EROTIC RITES OF FRANKENSTEIN, REVENGE IN THE HOUSE OF USHER, among others. The best image of him I could find is included above, shot from behind playing the piano as a Nazi officer in Eurocine's ELSA: FRAULEIN SS (1977).
He also composed the jazzy score for Eurocine's CRIMSON, a 1973 film featuring Paul Naschy, among other projects.
The IMDB credits him with composing the scores for 134 films and appearing in 17 as an actor.
He also composed the jazzy score for Eurocine's CRIMSON, a 1973 film featuring Paul Naschy, among other projects.
The IMDB credits him with composing the scores for 134 films and appearing in 17 as an actor.
Hi Robert,
ReplyDeleteIn the late 90s, I interviewed Daniel Lesoeur for an article on Eurocine which appeared in Video Watchdog #63. During our interview I asked about Daniel White. Lesoeur told me that he had the original reel-to-reel tapes of White's music. I remarked that the music should be available on CD. Lesoeur told me that he agreed and had already discussed the subject with White. He said that White was not interested in having his music released on CD. Oh well, maybe someday.
Thanks for all your great work,
Curt
Three CDs of Daniel White's music have been released in the 90s.
ReplyDelete- Ambianza Acoustica
- Solilok pour... # 1 and 2.
That being said, you're absolutely right : more of his music should be available. I namely think about his amazing score for Shining Sex.