My Encounter with Film Music​

When my wife and I first began dating, she, a cinephile, introduced me to the original soundtrack of Cinema Paradiso. “Love Theme” made me fall in love with Ennio Morricone’s music. It was around that time that I first became fascinated by film music. Up until then, I had been a staunch fan of jazz and rock music. Cinema Paradiso was my first encounter with film music.

My wife and I had been dating only for a short time, and she was supposed to move to the United States with her family. The only source of comfort in her absence was Morricone’s music. His music made me cry and then gently soothed and comforted me. I identified with Alfredo who missed Toto in a faraway place and wished only the best for his young friend. 

To my surprise, I find that my film music is mostly based on the emotions I felt in those days. Perhaps, the strong impression that Cinema Paradiso left on me became the origin of my musical sensibilities. If my music sounds lyrical, melodious, sorrowful and nostalgic, it’s because of the comfort and healing that I’ve found in Morricone. (CHO Sung-woo)