Shunji Iwai: For a Dead Princess

Continuing as Guest Curator of the Month, famed Japanese director Shunji Iwai joins Apple Music in presenting a playlist showcasing the works of Maurice Ravel and Gustav Holst, as well as the music of Iwai's films. “The first time I heard Ravel's Pavane pour une infante défunte (Pavane for a Dead Princess), I trembled at the thought that such beautiful music could exist in the world. It can be difficult to use such music in dramatic scenes," Iwai says, "So it often underscores more casual moments. I have used this song—and Venus by Holst—on more than one occasion. Both are beautiful songs I have always loved. When you think about it, women are the motifs of both. Many of my films also have female motifs.”