Kung Fu Panda could be recognized come Oscar time for its lovely score. Violinist Karen Han does great work here and it just so happens that it’s become available for your listening pleasure on YouTube. Have a listen:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJKheeDP2i4[/youtube]
Small correction Sasha: Violinist? The primary instrument in the clip is definitely the chinese erhu and from a quick google search, it’s the instrument that seems to have garnered Karen Han her fame, whatever else she may be proficient in.
Yes indeed, I do agree with all the respondants here on the quality of Mr. Zimmer’s work on KUNG FU PANDA. It is absolutely one of the best scores of 2008, and I also concur with Matthew Lucas in citing THE VISITOR as well. Nice clip offered here!
I totally got the soundtrack free when I went to the press screening, but I totally would have bought it anyway.
Just saw the movie yesterday, and I haven’t laughed so hard in ages. And I most certainly noticed the score, too–it was gorgeous!
Thank you for posting this Sasha! Now I have new music to listen to when I write on my days off.
Yes, thanks for sharing this, Sasha. Another reason never to underestimate the power of children’s film.
Since Powell and Zimmer are credited as co-composers, you know what this means….yet another worthy score disqualified from contention.
Totally agree. I picked up the soundtrack a few days ago and love it. I think it’s Zimmer’s best work in ages. It’s one of the best scores so far in a year that’s been pretty dry so far score-wise. For my money it’s right up there with “The Visitor.”
mmm, thanks for this, Sasha. Truly great track from one of the best scenes in the movie. Makes me want to get the soundtrack CD now.
Hans Zimmer and John Powell are both listed in the credits as co-composers. But this sample definitely sounds more Zimmerish.