New documentary profiles François-Xavier Roth

A new Arte documentary tells the story and artistic journey of François-Xavier Roth. ‘A Maestro in Eight Variations’ follows Roth’s musical activities around the world and offers in-depth interviews with him, his family and many colleagues, including Daniel Barenboim, who describes him as ‘a very great musician and a fabulous conductor’ and Sir Simon Rattle, who says, ‘Anyone who says they want to conduct Lully and Varèse, I love this person.’

The 52-minute film is directed by Salim Butt-Lutz. The eight variations cover the variety of Roth’s life and work: as Chief Conductor; his life as a Parisian; historically informed performances; commitments as guest conductor; training orchestras, including Cologne’s citizens’ orchestra; his life off stage at his home in Nîmes; his musical researches; and his support for new music, including with London Symphony Orchestra's Panufnik scheme.

The film is available online in both French and German until 23 February 2024.