Who's behind the notes? Discover Lalo Schifrin: The Maestro of Iconic Film and Television Scores
Lalo Schifrin's "Mission: Impossible" theme is iconic and has left a lasting impact on popular culture. Here are some interesting facts about Lalo Schifrin and his famous composition:
Argentinean Roots: Lalo Schifrin, whose real name is Boris Claudio Schifrin, was born on June 21, 1932, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He came from a musical family and began studying music at a young age.
Versatile Musician: Schifrin is known for his versatility as a musician and composer. Besides "Mission: Impossible," he has composed music for a wide range of genres, including jazz, classical, and film scores.
Jazz Pianist: Before venturing into film scoring, Schifrin was a highly regarded jazz pianist and composer. He played with notable jazz musicians like Dizzy Gillespie and Count Basie.
Meeting Bruce Geller: Schifrin's collaboration with "Mission: Impossible" came about when he met the show's creator, Bruce Geller, who was impressed with his musical talent. Geller asked Schifrin to compose the theme for the series.
Signature Tune: Schifrin's composition for "Mission: Impossible" is characterized by its distinctive 5/4 time signature, which adds to its unique and memorable sound. The odd time signature was intentional, as it gave the theme an offbeat, spy-like feel.
Signature Instruments: The theme is known for its use of various instruments, including the snare drum, bongos, and the iconic electric guitar. These instruments added to the theme's suspenseful and action-packed atmosphere.
Instant Recognition: The "Mission: Impossible" theme is one of the most recognizable and enduring television themes in history. Even people who have never seen the show are likely to recognize the music.
Grammy Nominations: Lalo Schifrin received Grammy Award nominations for his work on the "Mission: Impossible" theme and its variations.
Multiple Versions: Schifrin composed several different arrangements of the "Mission: Impossible" theme for the series, adapting it to fit the evolving style and tone of the show's different seasons.
Cultural Impact: The "Mission: Impossible" theme has been used in various forms of media, including movies, television shows, video games, and commercials. It has become synonymous with espionage and action.
Other Notable Works: While "Mission: Impossible" is perhaps his most famous work, Schifrin has also composed music for numerous other films, including "Dirty Harry," "Bullitt," and "Cool Hand Luke," further solidifying his status as a prominent film composer.
Lalo Schifrin's "Mission: Impossible" theme remains a timeless piece of music that continues to captivate audiences around the world, and it has cemented his legacy as a prolific and innovative composer.