#2 - The Cinematic Orchestra - To Build a Home
Building, Burning, Beginning Again: The Universal Story Hidden in Six Minutes of Musical Poetry
Story Behind “To Build a Home” by The Cinematic Orchestra
Released in 2007 on their album 'Ma Fleur,' The Cinematic Orchestra collaborated with vocalist Patrick Watson to create a haunting 6-minute masterpiece that follows the emotional journey of building and losing a home through intimate piano melodies, sweeping orchestral arrangements, and raw vocals, resulting in one of the most poignant explorations of human connection and loss that has since become a cultural touchstone, featured across numerous films and TV shows while amassing hundreds of millions of streams.
Technical Details
Notes about “To Build a Home” by The Cinematic Orchestra
Release Date: July 9, 2007
Album: Ma Fleur
Duration: 6:12
Writers: Patrick Watson, Jason Swinscoe, Phil France
Producers: The Cinematic Orchestra
"Ma Fleur" Album Details:Release Date: May 7, 2007
Label: Ninja Tune
Length: 56:11
Genre: Electronic, Modern Classical, Jazz, Ambient
Produced by: Jason Swinscoe
Recorded: Various studios in London and Paris (2005-2007)
Band Members
Jason Swinscoe - Composition, Production
Patrick Watson - Vocals, Piano
Phil France - Bass, Composition
String Orchestra
Additional Musicians for Full Orchestra Arrangements
Interesting Facts about “To Build a Home” by The Cinematic Orchestra
"To Build a Home" by The Cinematic Orchestra, featuring Canadian singer-songwriter Patrick Watson, is an emotive track that has touched listeners worldwide since its release. Here are some interesting facts about it:
Emotional Depth and Simplicity: The song, written in 2007 as part of the album Ma Fleur, is celebrated for its simplicity and profound emotional weight. The lyrics, paired with Patrick Watson’s hauntingly raw vocals, convey a feeling of longing, loss, and the concept of home as both a physical and emotional sanctuary.
Unexpected Popularity: Despite not being released as a major single, "To Build a Home" became popular through film, television, and commercials. Its cinematic quality made it a perfect fit for emotionally intense scenes, so it has been featured in shows like Grey’s Anatomy, One Tree Hill, This Is Us, and in films like The Big Sick.
A Symbol of Love and Loss: The lyrics resonate with themes of love and memory. The song’s structure, starting gently and building up, mirrors the experience of constructing something precious (like a relationship or a home) only to feel the pain of losing it.
Watson’s Unique Contribution: Patrick Watson’s background in both indie and classical music brings a unique sound to the song. He composed and performed the piano and vocal parts, adding his personal touch to the track, which contributes to its almost hymn-like quality.
Recorded in an Abandoned Church: To add to the song’s haunting ambiance, parts of "Ma Fleur" were recorded in an abandoned church in London. This setting likely added the sense of reverberation and space that gives "To Build a Home" its ethereal quality.
Long-Lasting Popularity: Over the years, "To Build a Home" has maintained its popularity due to its timeless appeal. It’s one of those rare songs that transcends genres and speaks to universal emotions, which explains why it has remained a favorite for over a decade.