Happenings

Lights, camera, symphony! On February 22nd the Yakima Symphony Orchestra will take the stage for its third Pops concert of the 2024–2025 season, treating audiences to a musical journey through some of the greatest Oscar-winning film scores of all time. This enchanting evening will highlight the power of cinema and music, blending the magic of storytelling with the timeless artistry of symphonic performance.

The program will transport the audience through decades of cinematic brilliance, with a lineup of Oscar-winning scores that have left indelible marks on both film and music history. From the sweeping romance of the Golden Age to the modern genius of contemporary composers, each piece promises to evoke memories of the iconic films they represent.

“Gone With the Wind” – Max Steiner (1939)

The journey begins with Max Steiner’s lush and unforgettable score for Gone With the Wind. As one of the earliest examples of a film score becoming a character in its own right, Steiner’s music captures the grandeur and emotional depth of the Civil War epic. This piece will transport listeners back to Scarlett O’Hara’s plantation and the heartbreak of her tumultuous story.

“The Godfather” – Nino Rota (1972)

From the Old South to the gritty streets of New York, the evening moves into the haunting world of The Godfather. Nino Rota’s somber and evocative score mirrors the film’s themes of family, power, and betrayal. Rota’s music is as much a cornerstone of this masterpiece as the performances of Marlon Brando and Al Pacino.

“Titanic” – James Horner (1997)

James Horner’s Titanic score swept audiences away as completely as the ill-fated ship itself. With its tender melodies and soaring orchestration, the music captures the romance and tragedy of Jack and Rose’s story. Expect the orchestra to bring the waves of emotion to life as they perform from this unforgettable soundtrack.

“The Lord of the Rings” – Howard Shore (2001–2003)

Next, the orchestra delves into Middle-earth with Howard Shore’s majestic score for The Lord of the Rings. Shore’s music is a tour de force of fantasy and drama, weaving together the themes of friendship, courage, and hope in the face of darkness. This part of the program promises to immerse audiences in J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendary world.

“Oppenheimer” – Ludwig Göransson (2023)

The evening concludes with a nod to modern cinematic brilliance: Ludwig Göransson’s Oppenheimer score. A masterful blend of haunting minimalism and emotional resonance, Göransson’s music underscores the profound ethical dilemmas of J. Robert Oppenheimer’s journey. This contemporary addition bridges the past and present, reminding us of the ongoing legacy of great film music.

Why This Concert Is Unmissable

The Yakima Symphony Orchestra’s Pops series has always celebrated the fusion of music and popular culture, and this concert is no exception. Led by YSO’s own Maestro Lawrence Golan, the orchestra will bring these iconic scores to life, offering audiences a chance to relive the magic of the movies in a way only live music can provide.

Whether you’re a film buff, a music lover, or simply looking for a night of entertainment, this concert promises to be an unforgettable experience. So grab your tickets, settle into your seat, and prepare to be swept away by the music that has defined some of the greatest films of all time.

Tickets for this concert are on sale now. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the art of film scoring with the Yakima Symphony Orchestra!