Top Maurice Jarre Films: From Lawrence of Arabia to Doctor Zhivago
Maurice Jarre, the French composer, is known for his captivating and unforgettable scores for films. He is considered one of the most influential composers in the film industry, having worked on more than 150 film scores throughout his career. Jarre’s music has been used in some of the most iconic films in history, including Lawrence of Arabia, Doctor Zhivago, and A Passage to India. In this article, we will explore some of Maurice Jarre’s best films and how his music brought these films to life.
1. Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
Lawrence of Arabia is one of the most iconic films in history, and Maurice Jarre’s score is a significant reason for its success. The film follows the story of T.E. Lawrence, a British officer who played a crucial role in the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire. Jarre’s score is a masterpiece, and it won him his first Academy Award for Best Original Score. The score is known for its use of the Arabian Oud, which is a stringed instrument commonly used in Middle Eastern music.
2. Doctor Zhivago (1965)
Doctor Zhivago is another iconic film that features a beautiful score by Maurice Jarre. The film is set in Russia during the early 20th century and follows the story of Yuri Zhivago, a physician and poet, and his love affair with Lara Antipova. Jarre’s score features the use of the balalaika, a Russian stringed instrument, and it won him his second Academy Award for Best Original Score.
3. A Passage to India (1984)
A Passage to India is a film based on E.M. Forster’s novel of the same name. The film follows the story of Dr. Aziz, an Indian physician who is accused of sexually assaulting an Englishwoman. Maurice Jarre’s score for the film features the use of Indian instruments such as the sitar and the tabla. The score won Jarre his third Academy Award for Best Original Score.
4. Witness (1985)
Witness is a thriller film that follows the story of a young Amish boy who witnesses a murder in Philadelphia. The film’s score, composed by Maurice Jarre, features the use of the dulcimer, an Appalachian stringed instrument. The score was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Score.
5. Ghost (1990)
Ghost is a romantic fantasy film that tells the story of Sam Wheat, a banker who is murdered and becomes a ghost. The film’s score, composed by Maurice Jarre, features the use of the piano and the synthesizer. The score was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Score.
Key Takeaways:
- Maurice Jarre is one of the most influential composers in the film industry.
- His scores for Lawrence of Arabia, Doctor Zhivago, and A Passage to India are some of the most iconic in film history.
- Jarre’s use of instruments from different cultures, such as the Arabian Oud and the balalaika, gave his scores a unique and unforgettable sound.
- If you are interested in pursuing a career in the film industry, consider taking the NYU x Billboard | Music Industry Essentials online course and certificate program. This program will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in the music industry.
