Who's behind the notes? Discover Alan Menken: The Maestro of Modern Musical Theatre and Film
Alan Menken is a renowned American composer and songwriter known for his contributions to numerous Disney films and Broadway musicals. One of his notable works is the song "How Does a Moment Last Forever" from Disney's live-action adaptation of "Beauty and the Beast" (2017). Here are some interesting facts about Alan Menken and the song:
Prolific Composer: Alan Menken has composed music for some of the most beloved Disney films, including "The Little Mermaid" (1989), "Beauty and the Beast" (1991), "Aladdin" (1992), and "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" (1996), among others.
Academy Awards: Menken is an eight-time Academy Award winner, and he has won Oscars for Best Original Score and Best Original Song multiple times. He received his first two Oscars for "The Little Mermaid" and "Beauty and the Beast."
Collaboration with Howard Ashman: Alan Menken frequently collaborated with lyricist Howard Ashman. Their partnership produced many Disney classics, including the songs for "Beauty and the Beast." "How Does a Moment Last Forever" was added to the live-action film as a tribute to Ashman, who had passed away in 1991.
Expanding on the Original: "How Does a Moment Last Forever" was not in the original 1991 animated version of "Beauty and the Beast." It was written specifically for the 2017 live-action adaptation, expanding the film's emotional depth and backstory.
Celine Dion's Rendition: The song has several versions, but Celine Dion's rendition for the end credits is the most well-known. Her powerful and emotive vocals add to the song's poignancy.
The Meaning of the Song: "How Does a Moment Last Forever" is a touching ballad that reflects on the enduring power of memories and the impact of love. It encapsulates the film's central themes of love, loss, and the passage of time.
Multilingual Versions: Like many Disney songs, "How Does a Moment Last Forever" has been translated and recorded in multiple languages to cater to a global audience.
Continued Influence: Alan Menken's music continues to be a significant part of Disney's legacy, with his songs appearing in various Disney theme park attractions, stage productions, and live-action adaptations of classic animated films.
Alan Menken's work, including "How Does a Moment Last Forever," has left an indelible mark on the world of animation and musical theater, enchanting audiences for generations with his timeless melodies and heartfelt lyrics.