Emma: Music From The Miramax Motion Picture

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Music reviews of Emma: Music From The Miramax Motion Picture

Music Review: A mischievous, magical masterpiece
Rating: 5 Stars

Emma's theme is presented delicately by harp and strings at the beginning of "Main Titles" and grows into the woodwinds and brass. The dreamlike quality of the theme suggests a "once upon a time" atmosphere of a bygone era. This treatment becomes more active and buoyant as the action of the film begins at the wedding of Emma's longtime governess. The setting as a string quartet while the characters interact gives the impression of a chamber group performing at the party. This shows how well Ms. Portman's theme for Emma fits in with the period of the story.

The music for "Harriet's Portrait" has a lively atmosphere which suggests Emma's and Harriet's youthful exuberance. "Sewing and Archery" gives the listener the first example of the mischievous treatment of Emma's theme as she tries to encourage Harriet's feelings for Mr. Elton. The second half of this track conveys Emma's convictions while she practices archery, with both words and arrows, with Mr. Knightley by giving a more driving rhythm in the accompanying strings under the bassoon's rendition of the melody. The addition of sleighbells accents under the jovial strings in the beginning "Mr. Elton's Rejection" sets up a Christmas atmosphere of the scene. After a quick harpsichord solo of "Deck the Hall," Emma's theme returns as she and Mr. Elton leave the party. The dark, driving growl of the strings and brass underscore the humiliation Mr. Elton feels as he proclaims his love for a non-interested Emma.

Each of the other tracks gives an additional mood based on Emma's theme just as masterfully. One of the most disguised variations of the theme is "The Dance." It is a great example of a lively, rollicking jig and seems to have little in common with Emma's theme at first glance. However, the opening gesture of the jig is an inversion of the opening of Emma's theme. "Emma Insults Miss Bates" and "Emma Writes Her Diary" both show how Ms. Portman can illustrate Emma's sharp tongue and resulting remorse and sadness just as easily as her happiness all within the context of the same theme. "Proposal" and "End Titles" both soar triumphantly as Emma and Mr. Knightley unite and a general feeling of "happily ever after" atmosphere brings the film and score to a exuberant finish.

It is easy to see why Rachel Portman won an Academy Award for this score. It is a masterful score which complements in every way the film for which it was written. Ms. Portman is a very talented composer of witty, well-developed musical ideas. It brings a much needed peaceful break from the cares of the daily world which everyone can use. This score is a must have.

Description of Emma: Music From The Miramax Motion Picture

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