You can tell a superfan from a casual viewer by their ability to recognize a film or TV show from the first two notes of its soundtrack. One of the most evocative elements of experiencing a great movie or action-packed series is a captivating theme or moving melody. Songs can elevate a scene, pull on our heartstrings and help us connect with the characters on our screens. Needless to say, music in film is powerful, and concerts dedicated to these famous film soundtracks are as popular as ever.
“You have to make an audience experience with the ears as well as their eyes.” – James Horner
The Candlelight series pays tribute to all music genres, including film scores and soundtracks. Discover upcoming concerts here.
Mood and Atmosphere
Film music has the ability to set the tone for an entire movie. Take the horror genre as a prime example. What’s already scary feels even more terrifying when creepy melodies sound. For instance, in The Silence of the Lambs, an ominous atmosphere is achieved throughout the movie thanks to the use of string instruments together with choral elements. Every time Hannibal Lecter makes an appearance on screen, these sinister sounds gradually build, making the character appear even more menacing.
Character Emotion
Music allows audiences to connect with characters by helping us feel how they feel. When Whitney Houston’s character belts out songs like “I Have Nothing” and “I Will Always Love You” in The Bodyguard, we feel her deep longing and desire for her soulmate.
Likewise, when Lady Gaga’s character in A Star Is Born sings “I’ll Never Love Again” after her partner’s tragic death, audiences witness her heartbreak first hand. As the singer becomes visibly more and more upset, the song gradually builds. At the climax, she belts the chorus until the final verse where only a piano and her soft voice can be heard, reflecting her sad acceptance of the heart-breaking events that had occurred the evening before.
A Fun Film Score Fact
Released in 1968, the orchestral soundtrack for Planet of the Apes was recorded with the help of some pretty unusual instruments, including pots and pans.
Coming to incredible New York venues, such as The Opera House and St Ann & the Holy Trinity Church, the Candlelight series is paying homage to legendary movie and TV scores. If you are a music lover who appreciates the power of soundtracks and anime theme songs, discover the selection of tributes coming to NYC.
Note: For the safety of our audience, all of the candlelight will be provided through flameless candles.