In keeping with our mini-celebration of the 15th Anniversary of the launch of the film franchise, today’s Soundtrack Sunday is devoted to the music of Harry Potter.
And where else would we begin this Soundtrack Sunday other than the definitive theme. Also known as Hedwig’s Theme, this iconic, stirring orchestral piece screams Harry Potter from the opening notes. Those chimes always raise chills on the back of my neck because they signify a trip to Hogwarts.
Another classic Potter music moment has to be this one from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. After the visiting students from Beauxbatons and Durmstrang arrive the Hogwarts school choir sing Double Trouble. It’s such a cheery, upbeat song that is strangely prophetic given what actually transpires during the Tri-Wizard Tournament.
Next up, a spookily accurate piece – Professor Umbridge’s Theme from Harry Potter and The Order of The Phoenix. Chirpy on the surface but with sinister undertones, it is the musical embodiment of the vile temporary headmistress.
Not all of the music in Harry Potter is uplifting, but it is all beautiful. Case in point, Lily’s Theme from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Part 2). This heartbreaking piece signified the beginning of the end of the franchise and all of the loss, and hope, that had gone before.
The Battle of Hogwarts theme (again from HPatDH2) is so dramatic. I don’t know about you but as this one builds I am ready to grab my wand and defend Hogwarts.
I could keep going forever as the music from the Harry Potter franchise evokes so many wonderful memories, but I won’t. Finishing off this Soundtrack Sunday with one of my favourite moments in the series, when Harry rides Buckbeak in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Harry knows what it is like to fly but there is something about the freedom when he flies with Buckbeak that is a joy to behold, and Buckbeak’s Flight captures that.
So there you have it FANdemaniacs, a brief run through some of the standout musical moments of the Harry Potter film franchise. I know I have missed out LOADS so let us know your favourite in the comments.
