Music at the Movies

1. Introduction

During the 20^th and 21^st centuries some stunning film scores were composed. While in previous years you have learned about classical music composers during this semester you are going to dive into the world of modern classical music. As you will appreciate, the masterful scores perfectly complement the story and mood from the big screen, so you may like to discuss with your parents whether you want to watch some of the movies showcased here. However, these are also chosen for their musical merit and integrity in the way they tell a story.

2. Lesson 1: Schindler’s List

With your modern history studies starting with World War II, it is ideal to commence with the music from Schindler’s List. Released in 1993, many have acclaimed this to be the best Holocaust film ever produced. Based on a true story, it features Liam Neeson as Oskar Schindler, who saved more than 1,200 Jews from being murdered at Auschwitz. Schindler turns his factory into a refuge for those trying to flee the persecution from the Nazis.

Steven Spielberg directed the film which was adapted from the book Schindler’s Ark, written by Australian novelist Thomas Keneally. Steven Spielberg is known for his collaborations with composer John Williams, with the two working on more than twenty films together, including Star Wars, Indian Jones, and the Jurassic Park series being some of these. In this film, which is about the harsh reality of Jewish persecution, death and murder, World War II and the quest of one man to save many, Williams’ film score features a lot of violin pieces. Williams’ music helps audiences to watch the horrors of history playing out in front of them in the black and white film.