The Star Wars series has been noted for numerous achievements, including that of its brilliant music. John Williams has created numerous masterpieces, but it is the scores of each of the six films that really stand out. John snagged an Oscar for Episode IV: A New Hope, for Best Original Score. Being the second most Oscar nominated individual in history (after Walt Disney), with 49 nominations, John’s work has gained him a reputation as one of the most famous film composers of all time. Let’s have a look at some of the memorable pieces from the Star Wars films.
This goes without saying. Every film should have a strong beginning, and each of the six films does so, mainly because of the opening theme song. It’s the first few notes of the song that capture everyone’s attention, and lets people know that each film is beginning. It’s used across the series as a general theme. You know that you're in for one hell of an adventure.
The march signifies the Galactic Empire (and its strength) and has pretty much been accepted as Darth Vader’s theme song, as it’s hinted at when Vader is around. It’s become one of the most successful symphonic leitmotifs in film history. The theme is mainly used throughout The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. It is also featured across various points through the prequels. It’s also been noted for its versatility, as it’s heard through out other scenes, being played on several different instruments, such as on a harp during Vader’s death scene. Its driving theme makes it instantly recognizable. There is even a humorous, and rather sweet, VW commercial that uses the theme in it.
This happens to be one of the most iconic piece from Episode IV, and probably one of the most iconic pieces in the entire Star Wars saga. This scene represents the sequence when Luke is staring out at the setting suns on the planet of Tatooine. Many take the images of the setting suns as a passage of time and growth. Luke is growing and has no hint of what the future has in store for him. The strings build and build, just as Luke’s emotions do. Seeing as it’s such a short piece, its impact on the series has been huge.
It was an unexpected hit. During the final scenes of A New Hope, Luke, Han and Chewie are awarded medals from Leia, hence the title of the piece. The royal fanfare has become so popular, it’s been used for graduation ceremonies, weddings and even funerals. John brilliantly further progressed the song and was able to develop it into a set of chromatic variations. The variations can be heard during Return of the Jedi, when the Rebel Fleet takes off into hyperspace. The piece is also known as The Victory March. A longer version of the song was recorded and ended up on the Skywalker Symphony Album.
No article would be complete without the mention of the Cantina Band songs. Yes, there are actually two Cantina Band songs, entitled Cantina Band and Cantina Band #2, and reflect John’s interest in 1950’s jazz. The song is also known as Mad About Me in in-universe. The music doesn’t exist out of universe on the soundtrack. The songs can be heard during Episode IV, while the unlikely group are sitting in Mos Eisley Cantina. It’s a rather humorous number, and has become so popular, it’s even a highly popular ring tone.