“Curse of the Black Pearl” from Pirates of the Caribbean
Music for films, whether by a pianist improvising for silent films, or those scored for full romantic-era orchestras, has always been an essential element in the medium. And film composers, and their individual paths to success, have varied remarkably over the years. From so-called “classical” composers such as Aaron Copland, Virgil Thompson, and a host of others, to those who were practically self-taught, with simple roots—it doesn’t seem to matter. All that essentially counts is musical talent, creative imagination, a capability for artistic growth, and the ability to work within the demanding, cost and deadline-driven requirements of Hollywood. The music of Klaus Badelt is illustrative. >>>