It wasn’t so long ago that film score concerts were regarded as second-tier content by some in the music world. At best, they were seen as a gateway experience into ‘proper’ symphonic music. Classical purists muttered darkly about bread and circuses.

But things have changed and quickly, says conductor Benjamin Northey. “We’ve moved way beyond the debates we were having 10 or 15 years ago. The simple fact is that now, film score concerts are central to orchestral programming. They bring in the largest audiences, which helps keep orchestras relevant in today’s market and helps support everything else we do.”

“Some might still regard film music as less ‘serious’, but the success of these performances shows that audiences are embracing them. It’s no longer about proving the worth of these scores; it’s about the connection they help build with the orchestra.”

Benjamin Northey

Benjamin Northey conducts Cinematic for West Australian Symphony Orchestra, 2022. Photo © Rebecca Mansell

Northey is speaking to Limelight ahead of his podium appearance with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra conducting Gladiator Live in Concert, four performances (3–5 April) of the...