Composer

:

Bernard Herrmann

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Average_duration

:

8:02

'Night Piece, suite from Taxi Driver' is a musical composition by Bernard Herrmann, an American composer known for his work in film scores. The piece was composed in 1976 for the film 'Taxi Driver', directed by Martin Scorsese. The suite was later arranged by Christopher Palmer and premiered in 1981 by the National Philharmonic Orchestra. The suite consists of four movements, each representing a different aspect of the film's narrative. The first movement, titled 'Night Piece', is a slow and haunting melody that captures the loneliness and isolation of the film's protagonist, Travis Bickle. The second movement, 'Blues', is a jazzy and improvisational piece that reflects the seedy and dangerous world of New York City's nightlife. The third movement, 'Betsy in a White Dress', is a romantic and nostalgic piece that represents Travis's infatuation with Betsy, a campaign worker he meets during the film. The final movement, 'The Ride', is a frenzied and intense piece that captures the violent climax of the film. Herrmann's use of orchestration in the suite is notable for its use of unconventional instruments, such as the bass harmonica and the electric guitar. The suite also features a prominent use of saxophone, which adds to the film's noirish and urban atmosphere. The suite's overall tone is dark and brooding, reflecting the film's themes of alienation and violence. Overall, 'Night Piece, suite from Taxi Driver' is a masterful example of film music composition. Herrmann's use of orchestration and his ability to capture the mood and atmosphere of the film make the suite a standout work in the genre.

More....