I have never been a fan of film soundtracks. There is no
doubt that the music they contain can be very emotional and evocative. That is, of course, the purpose of movie
music- to underscore the emotion of a scene.
Soundtracks are usually made up of short pieces that are effective for
what they are, but they do not challenge the listener with much thematic,
rhythmic, or key development. Yet, many
symphony orchestras are having to rely on movie music to help fill their seats as
a sure fire way to supplement the regular classical season.
Well, I am reassessing my position, at least to a certain
degree. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
filled Symphony Hall with its performance of the soundtrack to the "The Matrix"
while the film was being shown in very nice digital projection. I was totally surprised how the live
performance made a powerhouse of a movie even more tense, exciting, and
palpable. I do not think that it would
be possible to duplicate the power of a skilled symphony orchestra in a movie
theater using standard film playback techniques. There is something so powerful
and subtle about an in-person symphonic experience that cannot be
duplicated. About 90% (my guess) of "The
Matrix" includes music, which made the impact of the ASO's performance
even greater.
No, I do not want to hear a symphony accompany "North
By Northwest" or "Gone With the Wind," but I am interesting in
seeing and hearing big, strong, splashy movies that have powerful soundtracks
where a talented orchestra can add something potent and weighty.
If you get a chance, take in "The Matrix" if played
by your local orchestra. It's worth the
time.
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