Entry #2 A Legendary Composer
If you have ever seen Star Wars then you are one of the lucky ones to listen to the epic works of John Williams. The infamous song, "Imperial March" has to be one of the most influential and widely known pieces in the world. However, did you know that this legendary song was inspired by music written in the 19th century?
Richard Wagner was born in Leipzig, Germany in 1813. Growing up, he wasn't very good at school, however he picked up a piano and started learning instantly. By the time he turned 16, He had started writing operas. Even though you have'nt heard of his name before, You have surely heard of his works.
"Here comes the bride, all dressed in white." You will here this tune as you watch your best friend or family member march down the isle on their wedding day. However, if you have ever attended a Catholic Wedding, you will notice that they don't play this Bridal Chorus. This is because Wagner is one of the most controversial composers to have ever existed. He is known for his anti-semitic views and many anti-semitic pieces so some churches will protest this by refusing to play his music.
In the movie, Star Wars, anytime Darth Vader appears on the screen, you will hear similar tunes to mark every entrance. Wagner is accredited to this technique defined as "leitmotif," in which every character in a movie or in Wagner's case, an Opera, has a distinctive musical, "voice." Darth Vader's leitmotif happens to be the "Imperial March, composed by John Williams. You see, Williams was so inspired by Wagner's works that he even copied the name of one of Wagner's pieces, "Kaisermarsch." He uses Wagner's technique using crescendos and decrescendos to engage the audience and let the music speak for itself.
With the help of Richard Wagner, Star Wars became the timeless and legendary piece of art that we know and love today. He certainly left a mark in both the film and musical world and we will use his techniques and will be inspired by his works for centuries to come. He may be controversial for his views, however you could never deny the talent that he truly manifested.
"Here comes the bride, all dressed in white." You will here this tune as you watch your best friend or family member march down the isle on their wedding day. However, if you have ever attended a Catholic Wedding, you will notice that they don't play this Bridal Chorus. This is because Wagner is one of the most controversial composers to have ever existed. He is known for his anti-semitic views and many anti-semitic pieces so some churches will protest this by refusing to play his music.
In the movie, Star Wars, anytime Darth Vader appears on the screen, you will hear similar tunes to mark every entrance. Wagner is accredited to this technique defined as "leitmotif," in which every character in a movie or in Wagner's case, an Opera, has a distinctive musical, "voice." Darth Vader's leitmotif happens to be the "Imperial March, composed by John Williams. You see, Williams was so inspired by Wagner's works that he even copied the name of one of Wagner's pieces, "Kaisermarsch." He uses Wagner's technique using crescendos and decrescendos to engage the audience and let the music speak for itself.
With the help of Richard Wagner, Star Wars became the timeless and legendary piece of art that we know and love today. He certainly left a mark in both the film and musical world and we will use his techniques and will be inspired by his works for centuries to come. He may be controversial for his views, however you could never deny the talent that he truly manifested.
John Williams is an amazing composer. It definitely isn't surprising that he was inspired by a master like Wagner. I can't wait to see what he has in store for us with the music in Star Wars Episode IX.
ReplyDeleteHey huge Star Wars junkie here amazing detail. I love this I learned alot of new information from your blog post thank you. :)
ReplyDeleteI like how much detail and depth you have about John Williams and Star Wars. After reading you blog, it made me want to watch the movies again!! It shows your dedication to the amazing piece of art.
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