Jean Wiener

Jean Wiener (19 March 1896 – 8 June 1982) was a prominent French pianist and composer, born in the 14th arrondissement of Paris. He honed his musical skills at the Conservatoire de Paris, where he studied alongside notable figures such as Darius Milhaud and worked with the avant-garde composer Erik Satie. Wiener's career spanned various roles, including that of a concert impresario, composer, and performer. He gained recognition as the house pianist at the Gaya bar and later at Le Boeuf sur le Toit.

In 1924, a pivotal meeting with Clement Doucet, who later succeeded him at Le Boeuf, marked his entry into the realm of popular music. A jazz enthusiast, Wiener gained fame through his duo with Doucet, known as "Wiener et Doucet," performing a blend of classical pieces, hot dance music, and jazz across European music halls. Between 1925 and 1937, they recorded numerous duos, solidifying their impact on the music scene.

Following World War II, Wiener shifted his focus entirely to composition, contributing significantly to film music, with over 300 scores to his name, and notably creating the opening theme for ORTF's "History without words." He played a crucial role in promoting new music, advocating for composers from the Les Six and the Second Viennese School. His compositions are characterized by a unique combination of jazz elements infused with a distinctive French elegance.

In 1978, Wiener published his memoirs titled "Allegro Appassionato." His legacy continues through his daughter, Elizabeth Wiener, an accomplished actress and singer-songwriter.