Composer

:

Alfred Newman

Genre

:

Film

Style

:

Film Score

Compose Date

:

1963

Movement_count

:

6

Movement ....

"How the West Was Won" is a soundtrack composed by Alfred Newman for the 1962 epic Western film of the same name. The film was directed by John Ford, Henry Hathaway, and George Marshall and starred an ensemble cast including James Stewart, John Wayne, Gregory Peck, and Debbie Reynolds. The soundtrack was recorded by the MGM Studio Orchestra and Chorus. The film and soundtrack were both released on February 1, 1963. The soundtrack consists of nine movements, each representing a different aspect of the American West. The first movement, "Overture," sets the tone for the entire soundtrack with its sweeping orchestral melodies and grandiose sound. The second movement, "I'm Bound for the Promised Land," features a solo vocal performance by Ken Darby and the MGM Studio Chorus. The third movement, "Shenandoah," is a hauntingly beautiful rendition of the traditional American folk song. The fourth movement, "Endless Prairie," is a sweeping orchestral piece that captures the vastness and beauty of the American West. The fifth movement, "The Erie Canal," is a lively and upbeat tune that celebrates the ingenuity and hard work of the American people. The sixth movement, "Johnny Appleseed," is a gentle and melodic piece that pays tribute to the legendary American folk hero. The seventh movement, "Raise a Ruckus," is a lively and energetic tune that captures the spirit of the American frontier. The eighth movement, "The Battle of New Orleans," is a rousing and patriotic piece that celebrates the American victory in the War of 1812. The final movement, "Finale," brings all of the themes and melodies together in a grand and triumphant conclusion. The soundtrack as a whole is characterized by its sweeping orchestral melodies, lush harmonies, and grandiose sound. It captures the spirit and essence of the American West and serves as a fitting tribute to the pioneers and settlers who helped shape the nation.

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