Film scores aren’t just for playing in the background any more.

Ivan looks at how they’re taking centre stage…

Film soundtracks have always been a strange medium.

The music relies on movies for their full meaning.

Why the sudden trend?

Is it because audiences are becoming more appreciative of soundtracks?

Or that film music is valued more highly in general?

Its a bit of both.

Of course, live music and cinema is not a new combination.

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Until recently, though, it remained arguably a niche form of entertainment.

That perhaps changed when the BFI held its Genius of Hitchcock celebration two years ago.

Nitin Sawhney used songs to soundtrackThe Lodger, giving his Herrmann tribute an emotional depth during romantic scenes.

All of these musical decisions were even more effective thanks to being performed live.

Since Hitchs sell-out shows, people seem to be cottoning on to that fact: live scores are everywhere.

Even Ennio Morricone is conducting his career highlights in December as part of a national tour.

Its heaven for soundtrack fans, because you pick up on so many extra details when watching an orchestra.

Ever wondered what the hell an Erhu, used on Spocks theme, is?

There was the answer, along with how to play it.

Tried to pin down why Michaels rendition of Alexander Courages classic theme sounded so faithful to the original?

One could easily imagine a composer to be a restrained, quiet person.

Elfman soon put that to rest.

Throughout his over-the-top theatrics, he didnt miss a beat.

Mica Levis astonishingUnder the Skin, though, is perhaps the most effective score to be given an airing.

The event, like many of these occasions, sold out completely.

Is that because soundtracks are increasingly recognized as a form of art?

In the publicly voted Classic FM Hall of Fame, film scores have had a growing presence.

This year, Hans ZimmersInceptioncrept in at 300th.

This year, Rachmaninovs Piano Concerto No.

Indeed, the Royal Festival Hall this year has an entire concert devoted to recreating David Leans romantic classic.

Scores are certainly becoming more valued not only by audiences but also by organisers.

But fans are clearly interested.

Because live score screenings offer an experience unlike any other.

Film soundtracks are a strange medium.

They rely upon movies for their full meaning.

If you ever get the chance to see a movie with a live score, I highly recommend it.