Top Most Influential Soundtrack Composers

Ennio Morricone is fundamental to this ranking for his prolific career and the creation of iconic melodies that defined entire genres, especially in the spaghetti western. His ability to evoke complex emotions and unique atmospheres through his music establishes him as a figure of enduring influence in cinema.

• His work has been a source of inspiration

• His legacy is unparalleled in the history of film music

• He won several awards, including a BAFTA

• His soundtracks are unforgettable

Hans Zimmer is an influential figure in film scoring due to his distinctive sonic style, which often blends electronic and orchestral elements to create epic and emotionally resonant atmospheres. His prolific career has shaped how film music is perceived and created, leaving an indelible mark on the medium.

• He has over 150 film scores

• He has left an indelible mark on the film industry with his unparalleled musical genius

• He integrates electronic music with orchestral music

Bernard Herrmann is fundamental to this ranking for his innovative use of orchestration and dissonant harmony, which defined the sound of many suspense and horror films. His work with Alfred Hitchcock, in particular, created unforgettable sonic atmospheres that profoundly influenced how soundtracks are conceived to evoke emotions.

• Directly influenced Quentin Tarantino and Danny Elfman

• His musical legacy is very large

• Created dozens of scores for film

• He sought for each film to have a musical personality

Jerry Goldsmith is one of the most influential composers, recognized for his innovative use of orchestration and sonic experimentation in iconic films. His ability to create unique and memorable atmospheres, spanning genres from science fiction to westerns, redefined the possibilities of film music.

• Known for his work in music for film and television

John Williams is a monumental figure in film scoring, having crafted iconic themes that define genres and entire films. His ability to evoke deep emotions and create memorable melodies has influenced countless composers and enriched the cinematic experience for audiences worldwide.

• He has scored over a hundred films

• He won an Oscar for Best Original Score in 1977 for Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope

• Musician recognized for numerous compositions whose main themes resonate in people's minds

Howard Shore is fundamental to this ranking for his monumental work on "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy. His epic and evocative music not only defined the films' atmosphere but also set a new standard for fantasy film score composition, profoundly influencing subsequent generations of composers.

• Composed the iconic score for The Lord of the Rings

• Crafted memorable themes for The Hobbit

• Distinctive and evocative musical style

• Significant contributions to fantasy cinema

John Barry is an influential figure in film scoring for his innovative use of jazz and popular music within cinematic genres, crafting iconic themes that defined the sound of an era. His work on the James Bond franchise, in particular, set a benchmark for spy and adventure film music, demonstrating a lasting impact on how soundtracks are conceived and executed.

• He created some of the most iconic soundtracks

• Elegant music

• Lush and emotional soundtrack for 'Born Free'

• His music takes the viewer to a unique place

A.R. Rahman is an influential figure in film scoring, recognized for his innovative use of electronic music and traditional Indian sounds, creating a distinctive style that has captivated global audiences. His work on films like 'Slumdog Millionaire' earned him international acclaim and showcased his ability to blend genres and evoke deep emotions.

• Innovative blend of Indian classical music with electronic and world music influences

• Considered the best Indian film composer of his time

• Composer, producer, singer, multi-instrumentalist, and philanthropist

• Honorary President of Trinity Laban, London UK

Max Steiner is a foundational figure in film score history, pioneering the use of music to enhance narrative and emotion in movies. His work on classics like 'Gone with the Wind' and 'Casablanca' established techniques and styles that profoundly influenced subsequent generations of film composers.

• Great composer of the early years of sound cinema

• Pioneer of Hollywood sound

James Horner is one of the most influential composers due to his ability to craft memorable and emotionally resonant melodic themes that defined the sound of countless iconic films. His distinctive use of instrumentation and orchestral textures brought depth and epic scope to soundtracks, leaving an indelible mark on the film industry.

• Nominated for the Academy Awards ten times