Imagine a beloved film devoid of music. While there may not seem to be a place for the elderly in cinema, some manage to shine without scores, though these instances are the exceptions that confirm the rule.
Film soundtracks enhance the viewer experience by establishing rhythm and tension, often underappreciated in their subtlety. They heighten tension at pivotal moments, signal emotional shifts, and provide us with uplifting relief and triumphant joy.
Renowned composers like Hans Zimmer (known for Interstellar, Gladiator, The Lion King) and John Williams (Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Home Alone, Jaws) are celebrated for their contributions.
“John Williams is the Mozart of our era,” says Vanessa Scammell, who directed a live orchestral performance of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 with the Queensland Symphony in April.
Williams composed the iconic Hedwig’s theme for the first three Harry Potter films, while Alexandre Desplat scored Deathly Hallows Parts 1 and 2. "I’m thankful that his music can be experienced live like this,” she adds.
The trend of performing live film scores during screenings has gained popularity recently. Scammell has conducted these performances across major cities in Australia and is also known for her work in ballet, musical theatre, concert music, and opera.
“It’s a hit because it fills a niche,” she explains. “We crave classical music; it’s essential to celebrate genius like Beethoven and Mahler. However, there’s something uniquely captivating about watching a film while 70 musicians play the score live in front of the screen. It’s reminiscent of the silent movie era.”
This experience transcends generations, appealing equally to children and adults, according to Scammell. "When children see a film score performed live, they often express a desire to learn an instrument that produces such sounds!"
“I always love hearing feedback, especially from those attending orchestral performances for the first time. Some mention how stunning the solos are and how they perfectly convey the mood, making them focus on the violin. It’s easy to forget that a real orchestra is performing the score during a film," she continues.
Scammell has conducted live scores for titles in the Film Music Enthusiasts Series, including Skyfall and the final Harry Potter film, with a concert in May featuring Hans Zimmer’s work planned.
The 2025 program will include a series of live scores for short features like The Snowman and Home Alone, allowing audiences to enjoy music from composers such as Leonard Bernstein, Alan Menken, and Howard Shore.
Each score presents unique instrumentation and requires a distinct approach. “The James Bond score is driven by a rhythmic section, which is thrilling,” Scammell notes. “It includes drums, electric guitars, and bass. Meanwhile, Harry Potter uses more classical elements aligned with rich soundscapes that enhance the atmosphere of each scene.”
“Zimmer’s work is also remarkable. From Pirates of the Caribbean to Da Vinci Code, his music showcases incredible diversity, and it’s amazing that these composers are acknowledged as contemporaries.”
Live performances also have the added benefit of performing the closing credits music as a compelling finale to the screening.
“We must highlight the credits music for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2,” Scammell insists. “It’s spectacular, featuring well-known themes that are challenging to perform. The orchestra ends this significant film and then goes, ‘Let’s do it all over again!’”
The Queensland Symphony Orchestra’s Film Music Enthusiast Series kicks off on April 4th, with special family concerts running until December 2025, including Skyfall in Concert. For tickets and more information, please visit the QSO website.
