Film Favorites: Rachel Portman
For this month’s Film Favorites series, we are joined by acclaimed composer and musician Rachel Portman to discuss her favorite film scores and what inspired some of her own compositions.
Composing over 100 films including Chocolat, The Cider House Rules, and Emma, just to name a few, Rachel Portman became the first female composer to win an Academy Award, which she received for the score of Emma. She was also the first female composer to win a Primetime Emmy Award, which she received for the film Bessie. Her scores for The Cider House Rules and Chocolat also earned both Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations.
Portman’s music is characterized by its emotional depth and ability to convey complex emotions and themes, making her one of the most sought-after composers in the industry.
Read along to see her top picks and take a listen to her latest album Beyond the Screen – Film Works on Piano, out now on Sony Classical..
Favorite Film Scores
“I love this score that weaves together a beautifully quirky and distinctive collection of instruments that gives the film such a spellbinding character.”
“This is one of my all time favourite scores. I don’t know why but I am always moved by the tender theme that so beautifully captures the spirit of innocence in this story told through the eyes of a young girl.”
“I love melodies and the thread they can weave to become part of the fabric in a film bringing so much to a story. Nino Rota created a whole world in music for these films.”
“I was so taken by this score the first time I saw Schindler’s List. The violin theme played so movingly by Itzak Perlman speaks of grief and humanity.”
“The score was ground breaking for its originality when this film came out. It’s the perfect fit for a stunning film. Sheer brilliance.”