Anyone who knows me knows that I love film music. It can transport you to other worlds, and make you feel like you are part of the story. Music is always at the heart of a movie, and helps you understand the characters you see on-screen. Film music can go in a million different directions, from loud and brash to subtle and understated. No matter your tastes in music, there is surely a film score for you, and a film composer you will love. To learn more about why film composers are so important, you can check out my article here on the future of classical music. In the meantime, here are 10 film scores everyone should listen to.
1. Star Wars- John Williams
This is probably one of the most well-known film scores of all time. It is full of famous themes and rich melodies. The songs range from bold and energetic to sensitive and romantic. You are guaranteed to find a song you'll love.
2. Braveheart- James Horner
Another classic, this score includes some of the best music of the late composer James Horner. It pays tribute to his mystical and vibrant music, with a Celtic vibe that can make anyone feel like they are exploring the rolling hills and magical forests of Scotland.
3. Up- Michael Giacchino
This score is sure to tug at your heartstrings. Michael Giacchino does an amazing job at writing themes that will stick with you long after you leave the movie theater. Filled with nostalgia and a vintage sound, you are sure to feel as though you are traveling back to the Golden Age of Hollywood.
4. Forrest Gump- Alan Silvestri
All of Alan Silvestri's 90s scores are classics in their own right, but Forrest Gump is my personal favorite. It is uplifting, emotional and will definitely inspire you. It seems like a big part of Americana culture and is relevant to both older and younger generations. I recommend listening to this score while you're riding in the car and daydreaming while you look out the window.
5. Emma- Rachel Portman
Quirky, sweet and absolutely beautiful, this score embodies everything I love about the music of Rachel Portman. It takes you back in time with just a few notes and has a classical style that has complimented many period films. In fact, this score also won Rachel Portman the Oscar for Best Original Score in 1997, which made her the first female composer to win in this category. As a female composer myself, I look up to Rachel Portman immensely and have a great deal of respect for her. This is a very sophisticated and calming score, so it would be great to put on while you're studying for that next exam!
6. Rocky- Bill Conti
This is one of the most well-known film scores of all time. It's hopeful, uplifting and will make you feel like you're on top of the world. This would be a great album to add to your workout playlist, and you can feel like Rocky bolting up the steps to the art museum in Philadelphia. It's just a great score to pump you up, and remind you that you got this!
7. Interstellar- Hans Zimmer
An article about film scores would not be complete if I didn't mention the great Hans Zimmer at least once. As my personal favorite composer, it was hard for me to pick which Hans Zimmer soundtracks to mention. But, Interstellar took the cake. This score is glorious and almost religious in its sound. Its use of the pipe organ gives this music a very distinct sound that sets it apart from a traditional film score. It ranges from serene to incredibly powerful and is a great score to study to. Hans Zimmer is our modern-day Beethoven, people. Just sit back and enjoy.
8. Cosmos- Alan Silvestri
This score is just plain awesome. Like the TV series itself, the score for Cosmos takes you to galaxies far away with its sweeping melodies and beautiful themes. It might be Alan Silvestri's best score to date, and I never get tired of listening to it.
9. Pirates of the Caribbean- Hans Zimmer
Another very well-known score, this one is sure to make you smile. Adventurous and bold, this score will make you want to be the captain of a ship, and go on adventures of your own. If you're going to be traveling anywhere this summer, this is the score for you.
10. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial- John Williams
It seemed fitting to start and end this list with a John Williams score. I picked this score because John Williams has said that it is his favorite, and it is the score he's the most satisfied with. As the best composer in our lifetimes, I thought I'd take his word for it. This score is at the heart of E.T's story and shares its message of friendship, bravery and fun. Hopefully this list gave you some good ideas for some great film scores to listen to this summer!
