Posted by Dianne Nicolini on March 2, 2010
Posted in: Dianne's Top Picks
Every year it seems Beethoven’s mighty 9th Symphony conquers the KDFC Top 100 Classical All-Stars. Can you predict what will be #1 when we reveal your absolute favorite soundtrack this Friday at 5p? Check out the list so far here and see if your fave has already aired. Will the Top 10 be dominated by John Williams? Will one of the younger film composers prevail, eg. Alexandre Desplat, Randy Newman, James Horner? How important is a great soundtrack to a movie? Tell us which movie score should win and why. Predict the winner right here with a comment to this blog.
Will Max Steiner's greatest score be #1?
Maurice Jarre’s scoring for Lawrence of Arabia is my choice. Not just becasue it is compellingly evocative, but also because it was written in great haste – just 8 weeks, as I recall, and Jarre was then a very risky young choice. Lawrence was inspiration for Lucas’ Star Wars in both scope and style, and Williams’ composition for Star Wars seems oddly derivative in retrospect.
Comment by JasonHad — March 2, 2010 @ 6:49 pm
Did anyone else write in the theme from Dr. Zhivago? I can’t believe it wasn’t on your list of candidates!
Comment by Josette Walian — March 2, 2010 @ 8:27 pm
Diane, this is so difficult! I have so many choices for #1.
-Lawrence of Arabia
-Breakfast at Tiffany
-Out of Africa
-Dr. Zhivago
-the Godfather theme
But my prediction is \Out of Africa\. The soundtrack overpowers me whenever I hear it. It is majestic, emotional, and visceral. But I would not mind if any of the others win the top spot.
Comment by Robert Pantangco — March 2, 2010 @ 8:39 pm
I spent the last two weeks away from my Reno home, visiting my daughters and grandsons in Los Gatos, enjoying the sounds of KDFC on my car radio for a change. I missed out on casting (pardon the pun) a vote for best movie score. My vote would have gone to Dances With Wolves because of how I can immediately recognize a scene from the sound track and the music is so intrinsic to the film. I am still waiting for the sequel that I thought should happen!!
The Reno Philharmonic, the Reno Chamber Orchestra, The Argenta Trio and now TOCCATA all make Reno a wellspring of great live classical music – the only thing we desperately need is for KDFC to open a branch station to fill the radio void!!!
Comment by Dick Ewing — March 2, 2010 @ 9:45 pm
AVATAR was a powerful and unusual film. I think the music worked perfectly with the beauty, nature and brutality of the film. The score did not overpower the scenes, it supported the themes of the movie.
Diana Antonakos ANTONAKOS DESIGN http://www.antonakosdesign.com
Comment by Diana Antonakos — March 2, 2010 @ 9:49 pm
Malcolm Arnold’s score for “Bridge Over the River Qwai” should be chosen #1 movie soundtrack because the music varies greatly and appropriately during the story: describing
the march, the building of the bridge, the romantic interludes, approaching
train and final blow-up. Music adds much to the movie, not detracting
but enhancing the movie and emotional feel. One can pretty much re-experience the story by listening to the music alone.
Max Steiner is o.k. but generally predictable and tends to anticipate the
story and the emotional tone. I think this tendency would upset the
actors (as it does me) who would not want the music to usurp their acting.
Comment by James Whitlatch — March 3, 2010 @ 1:28 am
The theme from Out of Africa is powerful and probably should win. But so is the music from Dances with Wolves, Bravehart or even The Magnificent Seven.
Comment by Carl W. Krause — March 3, 2010 @ 9:22 am
I missed out on the voting and don’t even know which movie scores are in the running. But the score I find the most powerful is “Chinatown.” Do you have a list of candidates?
Comment by Mary Lou Taylor — March 3, 2010 @ 9:40 am
I liked the movie, “The Painted Veil”, telling the story of a doctor and his family and an epidemic of cholera in China. But I found the music simply astounding. It is a poignant story, written by W. Somerset Maugham, and the composer reached that emotional depth and high.
Comment by Jack Turk — March 3, 2010 @ 9:57 am
I think John Williams will dominate and that the #1 will be the Theme from the Original “Star Wars”.
Comment by Maggie Gould — March 3, 2010 @ 10:01 am
David Lean’s epic films required equally expressive soundtracks. Lawrence of Arabia (desert), Doctor Zhivago (snow) and Ryan’s Daughter (water) were all exquisite examples of music matching the mood of the films. Of these three, I fondly recall Lara’s Theme.
Comment by Lorna Phillipson — March 3, 2010 @ 10:08 am
Dr. Zhivago! That’s it. Can anyone remember hearing Lara’s theme for the first time? I was only 14 and went out to purchase the book. Years later it is still an amazing story and movie, made even more so by the fact that the book had to be smuggled out of Soviet Russia, and Pasternak was the recipient of the Noble Peace prize.
Comment by Helen Gregory — March 3, 2010 @ 12:16 pm
I would love to see Lord of the Rings and Howard Shore win place #1! I read the book trilogy plus the Hobbit twice and thought the films were simply amazing. I have the soundtracks from each movie and can never tire of their musical themes. Specifically, track number four, The White Tree, from The Return of the King Soundtrack gives me goosebumps every time! I would LOVE to see that as number one! My goosebumps are ready! =)
Comment by Katie C — March 3, 2010 @ 1:31 pm
I agree with Maggie (comment 10). Despite the magnificence of soundtracks for movies such as Doctor Zhivago and Lawrence of Arabia, most pre-retirees were truly indoctrinated into science fiction and fantasy by the Star Wars series and the music is quintessential John Williams. The original theme, as woven into subsequent releases, is probably recognized by more people worldwide than any other movie music (and indeed, possibly any music at all). Although there could no doubt be lively debate over the musical quality of the Star Wars theme, I for one will never forget the chill that it sent up and down my back the first time I heard it.
Comment by Robert Ellgas — March 3, 2010 @ 2:47 pm
Anyone out there a fan of Bernard Hermann and his musical scores for Alfred Hitchcock’s movies? The SF Symphony did an opening night a number of years ago, with the music from “Vertigo”.
Comment by Bob Goodman — March 3, 2010 @ 3:26 pm
I had thought that To Kill a Mockingbird would rank higher on the list. It is an exceptionally evocative score, just the right fit for the film, with its legendary, memorable theme. It’s my all-time fave, but I didn’t expect it to win #1.
So, I will guess that John Wiliams will win for Star Wars or E.T., or Close Encounters, or Schindler’s, or Raiders or whatever. . .! He has an undeniable edge in the popularity contest.
Where’s the appreciation deserved for the great Bernard Hermann, or the magnificent Jerry Goldsmith, or the tenderness of Nino Rota?
Many of you voted for Doctor Zhivago, but “Lara’s Theme” is painfully repetitive and overused in the movie.
I voted for The Village, by James Newton Howard, and my honorable mention goes to Howard Shore for LOTR.
Hope they also received some support. We shall see!!
Comment by Bradley — March 3, 2010 @ 4:11 pm
If you’re a boomer, you have to admit that one of the most memorable movie themes is The Great Escape. Once you hear it, you can’t stop whistling it! The versatile Elmer Bernstein at his best!
Comment by Bradley — March 3, 2010 @ 4:14 pm
I am really going out on a limb here, I have two # 1 John Williams ” Star Wars # 2 Pirates of the Caribbean. It really doesn’t matter I love this time of year when Oscar time around and the station plays movie soundtracks.
I love this station…
LeaMarie Ave’ Lucas.
Comment by LeaMarie A. Lucas — March 3, 2010 @ 4:16 pm
This is fantastic fun! I think “Star Wars” will rightfully be number 1. And though I was glad to see “Braveheart” made the cut, James Horner’s best work was without question “Glory” showcasing the amazing choral work of the Harlem Boy’s Choir. Let’s hope it shows up later on the list!
Comment by Cody Spencer — March 3, 2010 @ 4:17 pm
Hi Dianne. I have been listening while I am posting student grades. You played a bit from “My Name Is Nobody” and even though you can’t share it on air, I wanted to give you the best line from that movie. Henry Fonda gives this advice to the young gun who is looking to replace him as the fastest in the west. He tells the youngster “When you’re up to nose in ****, keep your mouth shut.” Good advice for sooo many situations.
Becky
Fremont
Comment by Becky Hansen — March 3, 2010 @ 4:45 pm
As I’m not a movie-goer, I have no favorites, but I do have a question. Who keeps track of how often classical pieces are used as background/soundtrack in movies? I grew up with radio, and themes like William Tell, Donna Deanna Overture and Funeral Procession for a Marionette were themes for favorite programs. I’m enjoying the variety represented by all the selections – thanks.
Comment by Catherine — March 3, 2010 @ 4:55 pm
I would hate to see Star Wars get #1; I get bored very quickly with it and want to leave the room. However, The Lord of the Rings is something I never tire of…it moves me. I like many of the choices, especially Out of Africa, but this is #1 for me.
Comment by Jeanne — March 3, 2010 @ 5:05 pm
Don’t get me wrong, I love John Williams and have a number of favorite film scores and themes and composers; however it is my hope that Howard Shores scores for the Lord of the Rings Trilogy will be #1. The music he composed is such an integral part of the films. In addition, each film is like a movement of a symphony building upon and deepening themes, textures and truly assists in the telling of the story.
Comment by Lynnelle — March 3, 2010 @ 5:23 pm
I think John Williams has some great soundtracks and I would like to see his music from Schindler’s List as number one. I love KDFC and listen to it online from my office in Wellington Nevada.
Elaine
Comment by Elaine — March 3, 2010 @ 5:28 pm
I have to agree with so many here. The music for the Lord of the Rings trilogy of films was outstanding, as were the films. I don’t think there has been any film made since to touch them… yet. However, having said this, I will also agree with others who loved the soundtracks from Dances With Wolves, so evocative of the west and all the sadness of the plot… great music, as was the spectacular music for Out of Africa. Those of us with a little time behind us are glad of your range of choices, which bring the images and performances back to mind. But, for so many of our younger listeners, films like Dr. Zhivago or Lawrence of Arabia could never win over the currently popular films like Twilight… which encompasses the haunting melody of Bella’s Lullaby — who can resist lovely, romantic piano music played by a beautiful immortal?
But, my bet is still with the Hobbits!
Comment by Donna Smith — March 3, 2010 @ 5:54 pm
I am so glad someone else suggests Howard Shore’s sweeping, majestic, evocative, emotional, poignant, lyrical, gorgeous scores for the LOTR films. I have the complete scores for each film and they are almost too much to take at one time. But I am guessing and hoping it will be Shore/LOTR. And thanks to KDFC for this fun “event” leading up to Sunday night!
Comment by Candace — March 3, 2010 @ 6:12 pm
The sentiment seems to be in favour of Lord of the Rings as No. 1, and has my vote as well.
Comment by Paul Thomas Cahill — March 3, 2010 @ 7:04 pm
FOR THE PERFECT MARRIAGE BETWEEN STORY AND MUSIC, ENNIO MORRICONE IS THE HIGH PRIEST…. RANGING FROM SPAGHETTI WESTERNS TO “WOLF”, NO ONE HAS DONE IT BETTER.
Comment by DAN MARRIN — March 3, 2010 @ 8:31 pm
I love West Side Story – by Bernstein, of course!
and I love all of Hitchcock’s scores.
…..and what about The Wizard of Oz – gorgeous!
Comment by Joyce — March 3, 2010 @ 8:53 pm
Diane: Love waiting for and listening to all the movie themes!! I voted for “The Mission” and hope to see it on the list, but as to #1, it must be a John Williams’ score and probably will be “Star Wars”. This is a fun time. Thanks!! Kathryne Ann Kinsey
Comment by Kathryne Ann Kinsey — March 4, 2010 @ 8:26 am
I think ‘Lord of the Rings’ should come in first or at least near the top of the list. My second choice is ‘Star Wars’ I’d like to see either of these win thay are great!
Comment by Trish — March 4, 2010 @ 9:28 am
I hope it’s either Once Upon a Time in the West, Sound of Music or
The Good the Bad and the Ugly. All movies from way before I was born but classics I’m glad my Dad introduced me to. Henry Fonda, Julie Andrews and Clint Eastwood!!
Comment by Helga — March 4, 2010 @ 10:16 am
Hey,
Once again I must say Gone With The Wind… a classic, love Max Steiner, it’s on my Nano and played in my car all the time, second is Out of Africa, music much better than the film and the great Magnificent Seven comes in at number three for me!
Thanks for the fun programming!
Jef
Comment by Jef — March 4, 2010 @ 10:22 am
I go with “Raiders of the Lost Ark”. It is an uplifting, feel good piece of music.
Comment by John S. — March 4, 2010 @ 10:24 am
Morricone’s “Gabriel’s Oboe” from “The Mission”
No other theme has ever been so moving.
Comment by Geoffrey Kidd — March 4, 2010 @ 11:05 am
“Out of Africa” is my personal favorite. I also have fallen in love with the score from the most recent version of “Pride and Prejudice” (with Keira Knightly). I know it is mostly piano, but incredibly delicate and lovely.
Comment by Beth — March 4, 2010 @ 11:49 am
I immediately thought of Morricone’s The Mission. It didn’t get the academy award for music that year, a travesty. Yet several of its tracks have been used again and again to move viewers and consumers. I hope you choose a whole movie’s music, but if you choose just a track Gabriel’s Oboe is especially good, but so is a choral piece suggested to be the singing of newly christianized Amazon natives.
Comment by Elizabeth Hovey — March 4, 2010 @ 11:52 am
The score from The Big Country by Jerome Moross.
Comment by Bob Z — March 4, 2010 @ 11:55 am
The voters will choose who they choose, but the only score I’ve ever bought multiple copies of, and listened to until I memorized it, is Lord of the Rings. Magnificent music covering the gamut of emotions; gorgeous themes; incredible development, coordination, and intereaving of themes over many hours of music — makes composition of a 1-hour symphony seem easy! (But then, I’m no composer, obviously.)
Comment by Susan M — March 4, 2010 @ 12:03 pm
I voted for Out of Africa because it is fabulous and gorgeous, but I think Lord of the Rings has a good chance of winning the #1 spot because it is not only magnificent, but the movie was tremendously popular, so the music is very popular as well.
Comment by Sue — March 4, 2010 @ 1:33 pm
Amadeus, obviously.
Comment by V — March 4, 2010 @ 2:19 pm
As I read the comments everything here sounds fabulous. Certainly, “Out of Africa” and the “Lord of the Rings” are favourites. I would also include “The Sting” with Paul Newman, it had me whistling “The Entertainer” for about a week. But I also have to comment on two movies where the music IS the movie not just a supporting role. The first is “Amadeus” of course. The second is “American Graffiti” which George Lucas described as “a musical.” When asked about this he stated: “Yes, the music will never stop.”
But as far as a number one prediction? It has to be Williams for the first “Star Wars” movie. How many millions did that opening theme push back into their seats and think; “Wow this is going to be incredible.”
Comment by DaveC — March 4, 2010 @ 2:28 pm
Though I enjoy all the music, I always liked “The Wizard of Oz” for its optimism and hopeful theme. It would be nice if some lesser known film music was played such as “Little April Showers” from Bambi, the opening music from “The Sand Pebbles” or perhaps some foreign films. I cannot remember if there were any good scores in the Russian/Soviet classics “Alexander Nevsky” or “The Cranes are Flying”. At any rate, thank you Dianne and KDFC for your devotion to classical music.
Comment by Michael Hayes Jr — March 4, 2010 @ 2:58 pm
I vote for “Lord of the Rings”. I heard this performed live at San Francisco symphony a few years ago and is still gives me chills every time I hear it. I highly recommend it if it comes to town again. Both the music and the movie are epic and amazing.
Comment by Rose Frenzel — March 4, 2010 @ 3:13 pm
My nomination is the Barry/Mozart score for Pollack’s Out of Africa. The key was the central use of the slow movement from the A Major Clarinet Concerto….first played on a wind up gramaphone when Finch-Hatton/Redford takes Blixen/Streep on a flying and driving look at the African plains. That theme plays back and forth with Barry’s broad, and cleverly orchestrated, main tune throughout the rest of the movie (which did win the Oscar that year for its score as well as many others categories). I notice that I am not alone in this choice, already listed several times in this blog…..We’ll see….
Comment by Michael Current — March 4, 2010 @ 3:15 pm
There are many wonderful movie scores through the years, but none have moved me like “Lord of the Rings.” So many haunting themes that make me want to listen to the CD’s again. Not everyone is as old as I am, so from the standard that there are more people that have seen it and heard the music, I vote it for #1. I love John Williams’ music, too, and he has gobs of winners on the list, but Howard Shore would get my vote.
Comment by Anne Odmann — March 4, 2010 @ 3:53 pm
I’m surprised and pleased to see so much support for “Lord of the Rings.” That was my pick hands-down; the thought that went into that score is mind-boggling. However, I don’t expect it to win… I think “Star Wars” will beat it out. Remember, it was the only movie music to make the All-Stars this year.
P.S. For all you LOTR music fans, here’s something you might enjoy:
http://themusicofthelordoftheringsfilms.blogspot.com/
Comment by Laura — March 4, 2010 @ 4:39 pm
Am I the only person who voted for Klaus Badelt’s music for “The Time Machine,” some tracks of which are quite powerful?
Comment by John Pollock — March 4, 2010 @ 4:56 pm
I’m glad to see that Ennio Morricone’s “The Mission” and Maurice Jarre’s “Lawrence of Arabia” are still to come. Both deserve to be in the top 10. But I agree with the bloggers who think Howard Shore’s “Lord of the Rings” should be #1. Shore’s achievement is nearly as monumental as that of Richard Wagner’s “Der Ring des Nibelungen” 130 years earlier. Wagner’s story and music certainly influenced both Tolkein and Shore.
Comment by Ed — March 4, 2010 @ 5:20 pm
In my humble opinion the winner(s) boils down the Battle of the Johns. John Barry and John Williams.
John Barry would be my pick — Dances with Wolves, Out of Africa, Avatar, Star Trek etc (I voted for Dances with Wolves but Out of Africa was my 2nd pick) and we couldn’t pick two.
John Williams, wonderful composer, I cannot imagine Jaws music being better… — Star Wars, Jqws, Schindler’s List etc…
So many wonderful songs written for film…..ahhhh
Comment by Joan Joinville — March 4, 2010 @ 5:29 pm
The Magnicent Seven or Star Wars. My favorites are stirring themes like the Indiana Jones series written by John Williams, which I see came in 11th.
Comment by Lou Spiegel — March 4, 2010 @ 6:20 pm
I will be annoyed if “Star Wars” isn’t #1. I’m sure there’s a backlash against it, saying it’s “too derivative” or something. What isn’t derivative? There’s nothing new under the sun. And “Star Wars” deserves to win not only because it is a magnificent score, but because John Williams wrote music for all six of the movies and composed so many memorable themes: the main theme, the Imperial March, Princess Leia’s Theme, Yoda’s Theme, Han Solo and the Princess, Anakin’s Theme, Duel of the Fates, Across the Stars.
I cannot recall a SINGLE memorable theme from “Bored of the Borings,” aka LOTR. But I’m sure there’ll be people saying that LOTR is the “underdog” (which I find laughable) and should win. Oh, and by the way, Richard Wagner influenced Williams’ “Star Wars” music too. It has Wagnerian leitmotifs.
Williams is a living legend, and he created great music for so many amazing movies…aside from “Star Wars,” there’s “Jaws,” “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” “E.T.,” “Superman,” and “Schindler’s List.”
Comment by Shelley — March 4, 2010 @ 8:34 pm
My vote is for the full theme from the Magnificent Seven. Even though the cigarette company tried to steal it, the music is evocative of heros, the Old West, and big country.
Comment by Bruce Castle — March 4, 2010 @ 9:08 pm
Many thanks again KDFC for the fun of listening to this great film music throughout the week. Are we going to see it offered to us,,, to buy in some form?
Comment by Donna Smith — March 4, 2010 @ 9:18 pm
There are so many good ones that it’s hard to choose. For sentimental reasons I am going to say Star Wars (the original theme). It brings back some good memories for me.
Comment by Elaine — March 4, 2010 @ 10:36 pm
It probably won’t happen, but the winner should be Basil Poledouris for the scoring of “Conan the Barbarian”, a film filled with marvelous music. I went to see it two more times just for the sound track, especially the “Carmina Burana”-like passages during battle scenes, the grand processional music at Thulsa Doom’s palace, and the stark screechy sounds at the Tree of Woe.
Another dark horse candidate is whoever composed the music to “Forbidden Planet”, which has the most evocative electronic score of any movie. The spooky wooowooooo-s of the theremin weren’t overdone, as they were in so many other sci-fi thrillers of the 1950s.
And finally the darkest of dark horses, Nino Rota for composing the score to “Fellini Satyricon”, a mind-altering mix of music, voice, and percussion. I’ll be pleasantly bowled over if any of these deserving composers end up in the top 10.
Comment by Michael A. Pelizzari — March 5, 2010 @ 12:05 am
Just for the sake of prediction, it has to be star war.
Popular culture, what do you expect?
Comment by M Lawton — March 5, 2010 @ 5:28 am
I suspect that Star Wars will have an undeserved win. Of the other works that have a chance, I am rooting for Howard Shore’s Lord of the Rings Soundtracks. The score that really deserves the top spot is the one from 2001 – unearthly, beautiful music that is integral to the movie. Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like it will appear anywhere on this list.
Comment by Roger Hooper — March 5, 2010 @ 9:33 am
After scanning through the above responses there are so many incredibly wonderful musical themes and so little time! So many pieces that I had forgotten about and agree with. But all in all, my #1 pick would be Howard Shore’s Lord of the Rings. I’m kinda weird, but like Christopher Lee, I’ve read the trilogy once a year, every year since 1980. Since the movies, the music just comes to mind when reading the books. Can anyone make a more perfect Rivendell? I believe this is the best example of art where the imagery of cinematography and music are so entwined that one doesn’t know if the movie was made for the music or the music made for the movie.
Once again, KDFC has made this a very enjoyable way to spend a day at the office. Thanks so much!! I cannot wait for 5pm!!!
Comment by Patricia McCabe — March 5, 2010 @ 9:57 am
For a dark dark horse, how about Carlton Burwell’s tracks from Fargo?
Comment by Terry Brown — March 5, 2010 @ 10:16 am
Just listened to The Magnificent Seven! Awesome piece! Here’s a question — does anyone know what time signature this was composed in? I’m thinking 8/8? Thoughts?
Comment by Helga — March 5, 2010 @ 10:23 am
My number1 — Out of Africa, It make me feel the grand plain of Africa when I hear it.
Number2 — Dr. Zhivago, I feel Russia thru the music.
Comment by Sue Huang — March 5, 2010 @ 10:25 am
My #1 would be John Barry’s Opening Theme from “Out of Africa.” #2 would be Ennio Morricone’s “Gabriel’s Oboe” from “The Mission.” The all time favorite, “Gone with the Wind,” should have received a higher rating than #12 in my opinion.
Diane, the next poll should be on the best songs from musicals.
Comment by Fredrich Surh — March 5, 2010 @ 11:40 am
Well, I’m hoping since John Berry’s Out of Africa has appeared yet, that it’s going to hit the top. My next choice would have been Cinema Paradiso. Have really enjoyed listening to all the great movie music as well as the background information. Great work Dianne and Hoyt!
Comment by Barb Hickey — March 5, 2010 @ 12:22 pm
It’s gotta be “Sound of Music”
Comment by John — March 5, 2010 @ 1:08 pm
Now I know my #1 is in the top four! John Berry’s score for “Out of Africa” brings out all the passion, danger and beauty that is Africa. To this day, I still get misty eyed when I hear the first few notes of the theme.
Comment by Susan Valle — March 5, 2010 @ 1:17 pm
“Gabriel’s Theme” from “The Mission”, composed by Ennio Morricone….
Comment by C.Schlieter — March 5, 2010 @ 1:18 pm
I vote for “Out of Africa”. It simply moves me to almost tears sometimes when I hear it. Thanks for a great list. I personally can’t complaint about one choice made. This is overall my favorite music station at home and work bar none. Thanks again and ciao for now.
Comment by Kittina Willis — March 5, 2010 @ 1:29 pm
Star Wars reinvigorated the symphonic music audience in the US. Hate on Star Wars all you like, but it re-established orchestral music as a go-to style for movie scores. Movies from the late 60’s and 70’s had shifted in large part to popular music styles: jazz (the *other* kind of music besides classical), rock, pop, etc. Lucas wanted specifically to return to orchestral music for his movie; many film-makers then re-discovered orchestras. And that created professional opportunities for musicians that may not have otherwise had them after 1976.
Should Star Wars be #1? I suppose that’s a matter of taste, but it deserves a spot in this list.
Comment by Bob — March 5, 2010 @ 1:44 pm
Guesses:
Star Wars (of course)
The Third man
Indiana Jones (any one)
The Godfather
Chariots of Fire
Jaws
and many more abut there are only 4 slots left !
Comment by Chuck Kramm — March 5, 2010 @ 1:57 pm
I had a meeting and I missed the theme from The Mission – I’m so disappointed. That was my number one pick. My second choice was Out of Africa so I’m waiting for that one…Thank you KDFC for all the wonderful movie music you have played this last week. I have loved it!
Comment by Karen — March 5, 2010 @ 2:23 pm
Okay, I’m guessing Star Wars. If it’s not chosen by now, I think it’s the one to beat!
Comment by Esther — March 5, 2010 @ 2:28 pm
Glad to see someone mention Chariots of Fire, one of my favs. The Mission music is my top of the list, however.
Comment by MP Flinn — March 5, 2010 @ 2:45 pm
I wonder what this upcoming one is. Popular with “young listeners.” We already have Harry Potter. ET appeared between the hours, so I assume it’s not on the list. Is THIS one going to be Star Wars (followed by Out of Africa and Lord of the Rings)?
Comment by Don Jaramillo — March 5, 2010 @ 2:59 pm
I can’t remember the last time I’ve been this glued to the radio! My husband and I enjoyed watching several of these films, some of them more than a few times. Schindler’s List, Braveheart, Saving Private Ryan and The Mission were our favorites.
He passed away last year so hearing these soundtracks is causing mini-meltdowns, which is a good thing, really, because I’m remembering happy times. Thank you, KDFC, for a very personal, weeklong retrospective.
Comment by Ann — March 5, 2010 @ 3:05 pm
My guess: Lord of the rings. Star Wars is very good.
Comment by Vladimir — March 5, 2010 @ 3:08 pm
If William’s score for “Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith” had been nominated separate from the other 5 scores I would have given him the vote. With that score Williams branched out like never before weaving the old melodies with the most moving and haunting film music I’ve ever heard. Otherwise the prior scores might as well be grouped together with Indiana Jones, Jaws and all the other great Williams scores. They’re all so similar. With that said, the vote must go to Howard Shore if not for the sheer greatness of the undertaking, as all the other comments stated; the music is so masterfully intertwined with the movie and immensely powerful that it really stands alone.
Comment by Anita — March 5, 2010 @ 3:11 pm
Thank goodness, Star Wars is out of the way.
Comment by V — March 5, 2010 @ 3:15 pm
Hoping #1 will be OUT OF AFRICA!
Comment by pam — March 5, 2010 @ 3:16 pm
The theme from Casablanca. Gone with the Wind is another great choice.
Comment by Steve — March 5, 2010 @ 3:23 pm
Only two songs to go and my favorite has not been played yet. My favorite is the LOTR soundtrack. That’s my bet for number one. But, as Diane mentioned, they haven’t played Out of Africa either. I’m thinking that Out of Africa won’t make it. It is way overplayed on KDFC, yet they don’t play other listener faves much such as Star Wars as it is too popular!
Comment by Cristina — March 5, 2010 @ 3:25 pm
I’m a little disappointed that we will probably not have something from Jerry Goldsmith on the list. Wind and the Lion would have been a good one. So would Alien. Two of my favorites. I don’t expect either of these to be in the top two.
My own fault for not voting.
Comment by Don Jaramillo — March 5, 2010 @ 3:27 pm
At this point I really, really hope it’s the score from The Lord of the Rings-specifically The White Tree. I have seen all these movies well over 100 times each and I cry each and every time the beacons are lit in The Return of the King with The White Tree accompanying masterfully with the majestic cinematography in this particular scene (I also cry each and every time during Theoden’s motivational speech to the Rohirrim as they prepare for the Battle of Pelennor Fields-but I digress). I haven’t seen the themes to Jaws, Gone with the Wind, Casablanca The Good, The Bad, the Ugly, On Golden Pond, or ET show up yet so I’m hoping LOTR is even on the list. On a side note, I really enjoyed the score from Up this year.
Comment by Julie — March 5, 2010 @ 3:28 pm
It has to be Lord of the Rings and Out of Africa for the top two! They’re the two I voted for, so I guess a lot of people agreed with me. Both are beautiful and evocative. Looking forward to hearing them. Thanks for your movie-music week. It is a fun variation on your great selection of classical music!
P.S. My CAPTCHA words are “the” and “ring.” Is this a hint?
Comment by Linda L. — March 5, 2010 @ 3:30 pm
I’m delighted to see that Gabriel’s Oboe from The Mission is near the top of the list. That’s my movie favorite. I’m guessing Out of Africa and LOTR will be in the #2 and #1 positions (not necessarily in that order), but I can’t help wondering, where is Samuel Barber’s Adagio (Platoon)? Did I miss it? That’d be weird not to have that one on the list. Such a moving piece…
Oh, and I agree with Ann — I don’t think I’ve ever been this glued to my radio ever. My husband thinks I’m crazy.
Thanks KDFC!
Judie–
Comment by Judie — March 5, 2010 @ 3:30 pm
Silly me, I missed Gone With the Wind at number 12. Out of Africa and the music from Glory were also very powerful themes. My heart still goes to the LOTR but since the themes from Jaws was VERY iconic (seriously, who wanted to get into the water after that?) and Out of Africa have not yet been heard, I’m thinking the last two just might be these scores.
Comment by Julie — March 5, 2010 @ 3:35 pm
Looking over the list of Jerry Goldsmith scores, it would be a shame if he doesn’t appear in this list. There were so many good ones. Perhaps the problem is that he was so versatile. So many different musical styles to fit the movie. One can easily recognize a score by John Barry, John Williams, or James Horner. There were some similarities, like with the Raisuli theme in Wind and the Lion and the Klingon Theme in Star Trek: The Motion Picture, but there was so much that was different. Poltergeist, Logan’s Run, Planet of the Apes, The Omen, The Blue Max, The Sand Pebbles, Masada. So many gems.
I need to pull out some of my Goldsmith soundtracks after this.
Comment by Don Jaramillo — March 5, 2010 @ 3:38 pm
Ahhhh…. Ask and ye shall receive. Thank you!
Beautiful, even if it is not one of the scores in my collection. I guess this means Jerry didn’t make the cut. Still good to have him as part of the “staff picks.”
Regarding Michael’s wish for Basil Poledouris and the Conan movies: Those were good scores. I have a craving for main theme from time to time. Unfortunately, they are largely out of circulation, so many have no access to them. I could have seen them chosen by the staff, but it was a long-shot as a listener pick.
Comment by Don Jaramillo — March 5, 2010 @ 3:49 pm
Could it be The Lord of the Rings? Or my all time favorite, Out of Africa?
We’ll see soon!
Comment by Barbara — March 5, 2010 @ 4:00 pm
I’d like to see the entire list of choices again, to remind myself how and why I voted. John Barry’s Dances With Wolves was my #1, but I don’t remember much else. In my own collection I probably have more James Horner soundtracks than any other composer–Legends of the Fall almost always brings me to tears (the good kind).
LOVE Oscars Week on KDFC!
Comment by Ange — March 5, 2010 @ 4:05 pm
Out of Africa was my pick. I think this Oscar Countdown is the best thing you have done!
Comment by Dale Lohman — March 5, 2010 @ 4:06 pm
My guess is the theme from “Lord of the Rings”. I think it’s called “In Dreams”. My daughter used to play it on the piano. What an amazing piece!
Comment by Ivy Daley — March 5, 2010 @ 4:11 pm
Well, I guess it’s Lord of the Rings.
I voted for Once Upon a Time in the West as I think it’s Morricone’s best, but at least he’s well represented.
Comment by Hillary — March 5, 2010 @ 4:15 pm
Diane, I am so disappointed my choice for #1 “Out of Africa” was only #2 but 3 others on my top five made it! #5 Lawrence, #14 Zhivago, and the #10 Godfather!
Great show. It is almost a foregone conclusion that “Lord of the Rings” will be named #1 at 5:00 pm.
Comment by Robert Pantangco — March 5, 2010 @ 4:19 pm
I agree about Lord of the Rings, Robert.
The only issue may be WHICH theme will we hear? “In Dreams,” like Ivy hopes? “The Prophesy?” “Concerning Hobbits?” If KDFC played vocal pieces, I wouldn’t mind “The Steward of Gondor.” That piece brings a lump to my throat every time.
Comment by Don Jaramillo — March 5, 2010 @ 4:43 pm
What? Nothing on this list about \Brokeback Mountain,\ from which \A Love That Will Never Grow Old\ won the 2006 Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song?? It is one of the most bittersweet, evocative music I’ve heard. Every time I hear it, it takes me back to that final scene, and my heart breaks all over again.
Comment by Joey — March 5, 2010 @ 4:54 pm
How about the soundtrack from Mr. Holland’s Opus for #1. Good story, good movie, and great music from classical to the Beetles.
Comment by Jay — March 5, 2010 @ 4:54 pm
Winding down to the last 5 minutes until the #1 Song!! If it wasn’t Star Wars; if it wasn’t Out of Africa then it has to be LORD OF THE RINGS! A big THANK YOU to the KDFC for hosting one of the enjoyable weeks of listening in to 102.1! Please have similar programs like this as it definitely adds a little sweetness to our work day!
Comment by Helga — March 5, 2010 @ 4:56 pm
Yay! My favorite got number 1! Lord of the Rings was the first one that came to mind when I voted and a soundtrack I listen to often. However this countdown reminded me of and introduced me to a lot of other great soundtracks! This added a lot of fun to my workweek. Thanks!
Comment by Tisha — March 5, 2010 @ 5:08 pm
Great idea.. really enjoyed the whole week (what I heard of it at work). Surprised at #1 LOTR.. weird but I guess there are a lot of fans out there.
To Kill a Mockingbird = so powerful and simple..
thanks kdfc!
Comment by SAK — March 5, 2010 @ 5:13 pm
Thanks again KDFC,,, what a great week of listening. My fav LOTR came in as #1 which makes me want to see the films again, if just to hear the music. I loved that The Mission came in so high, what a great movie and certainly deserving of another viewing/listening to the whole thing as was Dancing with Wolves. Out of Africa reminded me of taking my mom to see it and how her comment was \How can she fight lions like that?\ She was a great movie partner, and would have loved this week of music reminders. Thanks for giving me this time of bittersweet movie memories — the stuff that dreams are made of.
Comment by Donna Smith — March 5, 2010 @ 5:53 pm
The music for Star Wars is such an ingrained part of our culture that it definitely deserves a very high ranking (top 3). The music for LOTR is also quite lovely and deserves something very high. However, the music for “The Mission” – including not only the Gabriel’s Oboe theme, but also the Vita Nostra choruses repeated throughout the film – has something to it that no other film score approaches. How is it only #4?
(I wish I voted when I had the chance!) All great music – it is hard to rank! Thanks for the fun!
Comment by Shauna — March 6, 2010 @ 3:15 pm
I enjoyed listening the last couple of days, I missed out voting. Was very surprised about #1, but it’s okay, it’s pretty nice. Was a bit surprised one of the greatest composers for soundtracks didn’t make it, Bernard Herrmann, whether from his 1st score, Citizen Kane, to his Last, Taxi Driver. Besides his Hitchcock stuff, Vertigo, etc., his fantasy/sci-fi, Mysterious Island, Day the Earth Stood Still. There was also The Ghost and Mrs Muir with it’s wonderful, evocative and powerful score. The Ghost and Vertigo being my favorite soundtracks of all time, period. At least Korngold and Maxie made it in the list though. It was very enjoyable listening though. Thanks very much !
Comment by Dave — March 6, 2010 @ 3:32 pm
I was wondering why Forrest Gump did not make it. It had some nice tracks I thought are worth mentioning.
Overall this current list is good too.
Comment by Rogelio C. — March 6, 2010 @ 7:36 pm
How music has changed over the centuries! Mozart, Bach, Beethoven were all in the employ (more or less) of rich patrons, their music limited to a rarefied audience until the mass of humanity caught up and technology permitted wider distribution. Now the inheritors of the orchestral mantle all contract their services to the rich movie studios, and their works are not designed as symphonies or concertos to be listened to in their purest renditions, but to evoke emotion and background for celluloid puppets who mime for the audience, removing the need to imagine, masking the invitation to be transported into a new reality through harmony and dissonance alone. Would these compositions fill concert halls the world over for centuries? Only our descendants shall have the answer, but that answer might lie in the isolation booth of the iPod and its progeny.
Comment by JasonHad — March 7, 2010 @ 11:02 am
I’m surprised that E.T. was not one of the favorites…
Comment by les — March 10, 2010 @ 9:55 am
I can’t believe that none of the Titanic or Last of the Mohicans scores made the list. They are distinctive and every time I hear one it inspires a well of emotion in me. And I’m a eurodance/new wave/alternative/rock/50s doo wop listener.
Comment by Geeta — March 21, 2010 @ 8:50 am
Understandably, people vote for the music of the movies they’ve seen, and the votes are skewed toward the more recent, just as in voting for the greatest sports figures the current and very recent players always win most of the spots.
But there are lots of great scores that most people haven’t heard. Maybe there could be some kind of contest in which people listened, then voted.
Anyway, what I’d vote for as tops, for sheer musical value apart from any enhancement it may have lent to its particular film, is Prokofiev’s Lt. Kije music. It’s tops in my mind for creativity, cleverness, and never-ending interest.
Comment by Peter Matt — April 11, 2010 @ 1:02 pm
Where is PIANO ??
That is one of he most beautiful sound trac ever.
Comment by Mia Tockey — August 23, 2010 @ 1:02 pm