Film scores have evolved immensely since their inception, adapting to changes in filmmaking techniques and the audiences’ interests. They first started to gain recognition in the early 20th century during the silent film era, with Camille Saint-Säens composing the first original score for L’assasinat du duc de Guise in 1908. As sound was then synchronized and the film industry grew, so did the complexity of film scores and their role in the plot. Nowadays, soundtracks and scores are considered an art form and are often celebrated through concerts and tributes all over the world.
Whether it’s a comedy, sci-fi film, drama or anime, film music is not just background noise but contributes greatly to the plotline. It enhances the narrative and gives characters their signature sound. And let’s not forget its knack for keeping you on the edge of your seat, sending your heart racing in tension-filled moments or giving you the giggles at more light-hearted scenes.
The Candlelight series pays tribute to all music genres, including film scores and soundtracks. Discover upcoming concerts here.
Mood and atmosphere
Sometimes filmmakers rely on the music to convey the general mood or how people in the scene are feeling. Whether it’s adrenaline-inducing or romantic, it guides the characters’ and therefore, the audience’s feelings too. For instance, when you first hear Bernard Herrmann’s score for the shower scene in Psycho, it perfectly depicts Janet Leigh’s utter terror, which consequently, leaves the audience waiting with bated breath for what’s to come.
Character and emotion
Another important function of music in film is character identification. Different themes associated with specific characters can help to develop their history, personalities and motivations. Oftentimes, heroes tend to have bright tone colors and triumphant music, whereas a villain might have lower pitches and a dark and foreboding sound. Star Wars is a great example that uses Darth Vader’s theme (“The Imperial March”) signaling a dark force or Luke’s triumphant theme in the end of George Lucas’ classic.
Tributes to soundtracks are becoming more popular and frankly, iconic scores deserve the dramatic backdrop of breathtaking architecture and a sea of candles offered by Candlelight concerts. The spectacular atmosphere these performances create brings the magic of legendary films and TV series to life in a new and unexpected way. Immerse yourself in an evening of cinema and music at one of the city’s most gorgeous venues.
Note: For the safety of our audience, all of the candlelight will be provided through flameless candles.