Bernard Herrmann (1911-1975) was a renowned American composer, best known for his iconic film scores. He is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and influential film composers of all time.

Bernard Herrmann’s score for Alfred Hitchcock’s 1959 film “North by Northwest” is a masterpiece of suspenseful and elegant music. Here are some interesting aspects of the score:

1. Overture: The film opens with a iconic overture, featuring a pulsing rhythm and soaring strings, setting the tone for the adventure to come. You get to see that in the Youtube Video and in the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra, below.
2. Theme for Cary Grant: Herrmann crafted a suave, debonair theme for Grant’s character, Roger Thornhill, perfectly capturing his charming and sophisticated personality.
3. Suspense and tension: Herrmann’s use of staccato strings, pounding percussion, and eerie woodwind textures creates a sense of unease and tension, propelling the plot forward.
4. Romantic theme: A beautiful, lilting melody accompanies the blossoming romance between Thornhill and Eve Kendall (Eva Marie Saint).
5. Chase sequences: Herrmann’s music perfectly complements the film’s thrilling chase scenes, including the iconic Mount Rushmore finale.
6. Innovative instrumentation: Herrmann incorporated unusual instruments, like the vibraphone and glockenspiel, to create a unique sonic palette.
7. Collaboration with Hitchcock: Herrmann and Hitchcock worked closely together, with the director often providing detailed instructions for the score.