Making “The Trout” with Du Pré, Perlman & Barenboim: A Pioneering Music Documentary

Christopher Nupen – Listening Through the Lens is a documentary that offers an intimate and behind-the-scenes look at the world of classical music, exploring the life and work of one of the most influential figures in music filmmaking. Directed by Matthew Percival, this film delves into the career of Christopher Nupen, a visionary who revolutionized music documentaries in the 1960s and beyond. Known for his groundbreaking work in filming classical music in a way that had never been done before, Nupen’s approach brought audiences closer to the performers and composers than ever before.

One of the highlights of Nupen’s career, and a focal point in Listening Through the Lens, is his iconic film Making “The Trout”, a captivating portrait of three of the most celebrated musicians of the 20th century: Jacqueline du Pré, Itzhak Perlman, and Daniel Barenboim. Filmed in 1970, this documentary captured the trio’s performance of Franz Schubert’s Trout Quintet, providing a rare glimpse of the chemistry between these musical giants. The film is an exquisite example of Nupen’s ability to blend documentary storytelling with musical performance, creating a new genre that brought classical music to life for television audiences.

The Pioneering Filmmaker: Christopher Nupen

Christopher Nupen was a trailblazer in the world of music documentaries. In the 1960s, when television technology was beginning to evolve, he seized the opportunity to film musicians in a completely new and innovative way. Armed with a silent camera and unique access to the world’s leading classical artists, Nupen captured performances in their most authentic form—up close and personal. His ability to film musicians in their natural environment, offering viewers a glimpse into their creative process and the raw emotion behind the music, was revolutionary for its time.

In Listening Through the Lens, Nupen reflects on his remarkable career, discussing his collaboration with some of the greatest musicians of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Vladimir Ashkenazy, Daniil Trifonov, John Williams, Evgeny Kissin, and Pinchas Zukerman. Nupen’s work spanned more than five decades, and the film offers a rare opportunity to hear his insights about the world of classical music, as well as the personal stories behind some of his most memorable films.

The Magic of “The Trout” Quintet

The performance of Schubert’s Trout Quintet featured in Making “The Trout” remains one of the most beloved and celebrated moments in classical music filmmaking. The quintet, originally written for piano, violin, viola, cello, and double bass, was performed by Jacqueline du Pré (cello), Itzhak Perlman (violin), Daniel Barenboim (piano), and a group of top-tier musicians. The chemistry between these iconic figures is palpable, and Nupen’s camera captures the joy and camaraderie that is so often present in live classical performances.

For many viewers, Making “The Trout” marked a pivotal moment in how classical music was perceived on screen. Nupen’s close-up shots, which captured every gesture, glance, and shift in the performers’ expressions, allowed audiences to witness the music in a way that had never been done before. It wasn’t just about the notes; it was about the humanity behind the music. His filming style became a model for future classical music documentaries, emphasizing the emotional connection between the performers and the music they were interpreting.

A New Era of Music Documentaries

Before Nupen’s work, classical music was often relegated to being a background to other forms of television programming. Nupen changed that by offering viewers a front-row seat to the world of classical musicianship. His films blended music and documentary in a way that was both educational and deeply personal. Through his lens, the world of classical music became accessible to a wider audience, and viewers could experience the nuances of performances from the perspective of the musicians themselves.

In Listening Through the Lens, Nupen shares the evolution of his filmmaking style, from his early work in the 1960s to his more mature approach in the 21st century. He discusses the challenges he faced in filming musicians at close quarters, and how his understanding of music helped him capture the emotional intensity of each performance. As a musician himself, Nupen brought an insider’s perspective to his documentaries, creating a deeper connection between the audience and the art form.

Celebrating the Legends: Du Pré, Perlman, and Barenboim

Jacqueline du Pré, Itzhak Perlman, and Daniel Barenboim are legends in the world of classical music, and their collaboration in Making “The Trout” remains one of the most iconic moments in music history. Du Pré, known for her passionate and expressive cello playing, brought an unparalleled emotional depth to the performance. Perlman, a virtuoso violinist, added his signature technical brilliance, while Barenboim, one of the most renowned pianists and conductors of his generation, served as the unifying force of the ensemble.

The film also showcases their relationships, both as musicians and as friends, offering an intimate portrayal of their camaraderie and mutual respect. For viewers, it was a chance to witness these giants of classical music at the height of their artistry, playing together with a unity and understanding that was both profound and beautiful.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Musical Storytelling

Christopher Nupen – Listening Through the Lens is more than just a documentary about one man’s career; it is a celebration of the art of music filmmaking. Through his pioneering approach, Nupen changed the way classical music was presented on television, creating a genre that combined the best of both worlds: documentary and performance. By focusing on the emotional and personal aspects of music, he brought classical music into the homes of millions and gave audiences a chance to experience it in a new and intimate way.

The inclusion of Making “The Trout” in this retrospective is a testament to Nupen’s legacy, and a reminder of the power of music to connect people across generations. Whether it is Schubert’s Trout Quintet or his reflections on the world of classical music, Nupen’s work continues to inspire and inform audiences, both musically and visually, for years to come.