Expert: Jim Tompkins-MacLaine - 8/13/2009

Question
Hello Jim,

What is the choir that provides dramatic movie backgrounds? The songs without words, just dramatic chords that make mediocre scenes seem epic? Is it a style of music or a certain division of choirs?

Thanks!  

Answer
I'm not sure if I understand what you are asking. As you know, choral music is often used to enhance a movie score, and often without words. Sometimes a pre-existing recording is used, as in the the case of "O Fortuna" from Carmina Burana, by Carl Orff. This piece has been used in countless movies. Sometimes the composer for the movie writes something new specifically for the film, such as in "Ave Satani" from The Omen. Nevertheless, the Los Angeles Master Chorale records MUCH of the new choral music used in Hollywood. I hope this helps!