Composer

:

Elmer Bernstein

Genre

:

Film

Style

:

Film Score

Compose Date

:

1966

'Hawaii' is a soundtrack composed by Elmer Bernstein for the 1966 film of the same name. The film was directed by George Roy Hill and starred Julie Andrews, Max von Sydow, and Richard Harris. The soundtrack was released on LP by United Artists Records in 1966. The film is set in the 19th century and tells the story of a missionary couple who travel to Hawaii to spread Christianity. The film explores the clash between the traditional Hawaiian culture and the Western influence brought by the missionaries. The soundtrack reflects this clash by blending traditional Hawaiian music with Western orchestral music. The soundtrack features several movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, titled "Prologue," sets the tone for the film with a grand orchestral theme that introduces the main characters and the setting. The second movement, "The Beach at Waikiki," is a lively and upbeat Hawaiian song that captures the spirit of the island. The third movement, "The Missionaries," is a somber and contemplative piece that reflects the struggles of the missionaries as they try to convert the Hawaiians to Christianity. The fourth movement, "The Royal Court," is a regal and majestic piece that captures the grandeur of the Hawaiian monarchy. The fifth movement, "The Battle," is a tense and dramatic piece that accompanies a battle between the Hawaiians and the Westerners. The final movement, "Finale," brings the soundtrack to a close with a triumphant orchestral theme that celebrates the triumph of the missionaries over the traditional Hawaiian culture. Overall, the 'Hawaii' soundtrack is a masterful blend of traditional Hawaiian music and Western orchestral music. Elmer Bernstein's use of different musical styles and themes perfectly captures the clash between the two cultures depicted in the film. The soundtrack remains a classic example of film music and is still enjoyed by audiences today.

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