Boulanger, Lili

Marie-Juliette Olga “Lili” Boulanger (French: [maʁi ʒyljɛt lili bulɑ̃ʒe]) was born on August 21, 1893, in the 9th arrondissement of Paris, France. She left an indelible mark on music during her tragically short life. Lili’s musical talent bloomed early. By the age of two, she was already singing melodies by ear—a little musical oracle in the making! Her parents, both musicians, recognized her gift and encouraged her musical education. Her mother, Raissa Myshetskaya, a Russian princess, married Ernest Boulanger, her Paris Conservatoire teacher and a Prix de Rome winner. Lili’s grandfather, Frédéric Boulanger, had been a noted cellist, and her grandmother, Juliette, a singer. Music flowed through her veins. Lili’s older sister was none other than the remarkable composer and composition teacher, Nadia Boulanger, Lili’s devoted friend, championed her talents. They shared not only sisterhood but also a deep musical bond.

In 1912, Lili competed in the prestigious Prix de Rome, but illness struck during her performance, causing her to collapse. Undeterred, she returned in 1913 at the age of 19 and achieved a historic victory: Lili became the first woman to win the prize with her cantata “Faust et Hélène”. The text was based on Goethe’s Faust. Her compositions resonated, and she gained a contract with the music publisher Ricordi.

Lili played multiple instruments; piano, violin, cello, and harp. She was a true Renaissance woman of sound. Her works, including choral motets and cantatas, shimmered with emotion and innovation.

Lili’s brilliance was cut short. She battled tuberculosis and passed away on March 15, 1918, in Mézy-sur-Seine, Yvelines, France, at the tender age of 24. Yet her legacy endures. Her compositions continue to inspire, reminding us that even brief lives can create eternal melodies.