Friday, November 1, 2024

10 movie scores to listen to while prepping for the holidays

Fall only has 50 days left. Christmas trees begin creeping into town squares and grocery stores, even if some are adamant that it’s “too early” for Christmas decor. A handful of new songs can help get the mood right for those beginning the festivities.


“Carol of the Bells” by John Williams
With no instruments or background beat, there's no shortage of rhythmic, dramatic vocals. Sometimes the more eerie, the better, and this song feeds that mysterious side of Christmas. 



“Hedwigs Theme” by John Williams
Woodwinds, tuned percussions, brass, a harp and even a celeste, the song is whimsical and familiar for anyone who loves fantasy. It takes a variety of turns between loud and quiet pitches, just like the Hogwarts Express does on its way to the magical school. 


“Harry in Winter” by Patrick Doyle
There's never enough "Harry Potter" songs, so why not play another? Violins begin the song and mingle with an entire orchestra of trombones, tubas, strings, harps and more. With so many instruments, the melody has a certain endearing depth. 


“Practical Magic” by Alan Silvestri
Witches and evil spirits ... what's there not to love? As interesting as the plot is in "Practical Magic," the song is much calmer and sweeter. Flutes, violins and cellos carry the majority of this song's lighthearted tune with the addition of piano for soothing background notes. 


“Main Title” by Jon Debney
An upbeat, fast-paced rhythm matches with flutes, clarinets and a string orchestra, very fitting for an introduction to a Christmas comedy movie. 


“Father Christmas” by Harry Gregson-Williams
Vocals only account for some of this song, but a woodwind and brass ensemble blend with piano to create a whimsical, changing tone. Winter seems to be the main focus of "The Chronicles of Narnia," and its no different for this song.


“First Waltz “by Alan Silvestri
Scrooge scowls at just about everything, but even he would approve of dancing around the living room while setting up Christmas decorations. Short and slow, this song hums with a string ensemble, piano and a few changes in pace.


“Introduction (Titles) by Danny Elfman
Background holiday music usually doesn't come from creepy films, but it never hurts to change things up. Dramatic ups and downs accompany a chorus of string tremolos, celestas and woodwind solos.


“Dragons Homecoming Suite” by Anthony Willis
There's not much that could be more festive than a dragon returning home for the snowy season with its three adorable babies. Flutes and violins blend with notes of the same chorus from the original "How to Train Your Dragon" movies.


“Overture And A Holly Jolly Christmas – From Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer” by Burl Ives
The last and very familiar song on this list plays with a fast tempo, Christmas-themed lyrics and many pitch changes. "Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer" may have more movies than it needs, but the song is a classic. 

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