May 23, 2020
A peek into the genius of Zimmer
A film enthusiasts short thoughts on the Hans Zimmer Masterclass
I am no classical music buff. Nor do I associate myself with opera listeners. Not my kind of music at the end of the day. This being said, I am one to dabble with movie scores, base focused ambient music, and such. Guilty, film soundtracks, in particular, have been a touchstone in my music playlist since I can remember.
Over the years, that film scores’ list has sustained itself with entries over entries of the likes of Horner, Shore, and Zimmer. The late James Horner commands a top 5 seat in my soundtracks for far too many reasons for a quick Medium post to handle, but I would remiss to say that the film Braveheart had nothing to do with it. In my ears, Howard Shore’s entire The Lord of the Rings portfolio alone stands among the greatest movie scores feet of recent history. Then comes Hans Zimmer.
In my view, the most in-demand soundtrack composer of the modern motion picture, my first encounter with the conductor's work came through his scoring of the film Inception. Another incredible movie by its own right, it garnered a spotlight into Zimmer’s work — most notably on the Time track. Now a global ambassador of the industry, the composer was the natural go-to for Masterclass to collect in their amassing database of Masters discussing their fields.
Masterclass represents a place for listening and learning into the thinking and methodology of certain craftsmen and their respective domains. Dissecting past works, or assisting users in understanding a particular concept, the platform resonates with beginners and experts alike. Myself, I have enjoyed a variety of classes including Gordon Ramsey. Indeed, Masters taking their time to express their methods in creating their work is what I think is so enticing about the platform. So, in as much time as it takes me to decide on my favorite film, I clicked Hans Zimmer’s Masterclass.
The man is enviably charming. Narrating over his pieces of composition, the listener (me) is instantly reminded of the genius that is Zimmer. Showcased in the class, are some of Hans Zimmer's more iconic works. Namely, Sherlock Holmes, Batman, and the Pirates of the Caribbean. Individually franchise proven soundtracks, they act as the not so standard ice breaker into Zimmer’s composing thought process.
The process in which Hans Zimmer breaks down masterpieces to the simplest degree is what wraps listeners so intently. Whether he is discussing themes, tempos, synth creations, the level of attention and care is retained oh so naturally.
Film scoring is an art, and Zimmer is this generation, Picasso.
I left his Masterclass, ears at the ready for the next movie score I would come into contact with. Now, with a learned ear towards the movie score I find myself coming back to my Spotify playlist with a distinct ringing in my head — listen and enjoy.
