I think part of what makes the Lord of the Rings movies work so brilliantly is the magnificent score. The music underlines the scenes and sets the tone immensely well.

All pieces were composed and conducted by Howard Shore and performed by New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, except for the poignant parting song "May It Be," written and performed by Irish singer Enya.

From the track "Concerning Hobbits," which is whimsical and bright, it moves through to "The Treason of Isengard," giving listeners the sweeping fear of that shadow moving across the land, growing increasing darker and more urgent. "The Breaking of the Fellowship" is a poignant touch, and Enya's closing song is the pefect touch of sadness and hope.

That Shore did all the Ring soundtracks helped to keep the movies consistent and of a single mind. The movies are brilliant, and Shore's musical magic is a big part of that. I rank this up with Braveheart as one of the best soundtracks ever.

- Rambles
written by DeborahAnne MacGillivray