Bronisaw Kaper

Bronisław Kaper (1902–1983) was a renowned Polish-French-American composer known for his contributions to film scores. Born in Warsaw, he initially studied piano and composition before moving to Berlin in the 1920s, where he met fellow composer Walter Jurmann. fleeing Nazi persecution, Kaper moved to Paris and later Hollywood, where he became a prominent figure in the Golden Age of Hollywood cinema.

Kaper is celebrated for composing iconic jazz standards such as "On Green Dolphin Street" (from *The Big City*, 1947) and "Invitation" (*The Enforcer*, 1952), which were featured in MGM films. He won an Academy Award for Best Original Score for *Lili* (1958) and composed music for nearly 150 Hollywood films, including collaborations with the Marx Brothers and scores for Audrey Hepburn films like *Cinderella* (*The Glass Slipper*, 1964). His later works included *Mutiny on the Bounty* (1962), introducing Polynesian themes, and the TV series *The F.B.I.*.

Kaper's legacy extends beyond film; he contributed to Broadway shows like *Polonaise* (1945) and was honored with awards for young artists. His recordings have been re-released in recent decades. Kaper's ability to blend exotic musical elements with traditional styles made him a significant figure in 20th-century cinema, leaving an enduring impact on film music.