The Musical Journey of Obi-Wan Kenobi: A Composer’s Perspective

The first and most important thing to consider is that a different composer with different skills and sounds is scoring Kenobi. Williams composed the main theme but Natalie Holt is doing the rest. It's relatively unfair to ask another composer to just do what someone else would have done. They've spent their entire life cultivating THEIR craft and THEIR sound. Since it's a TV show and not a movie, the typical trend is to use smaller orchestrations as well.

To your other point though about themes, you might be interested to know that Holt has been mixing themes from the original trilogy into the show. Themes like Vader's Theme, Imperial Theme, Force Theme, Rebel Fanfare, etc., have all been interspersed in episodes 3 and 4 so far. You may not have noticed them though because she is setting them differently than Williams would. They're almost like the musical version of film Easter Eggs. I've created some videos that show where they are if you're interested.

Hidden Themes in Obi-Wan Kenobi: A Breakdown

Hidden Themes in OBI-WAN KENOBI Part 3 OBI-WAN KENOBI Part 4 Breakdown

Most of the music for the Obi-Wan Kenobi series was composed by Natalie Holt who also composed the music for the Loki streaming series. The Obi-Wan Kenobi theme itself was composed by Star Wars saga composer John Williams.

The quality of music is largely subjective: one person might think a particular piece is a masterpiece while others might think it is “meh” or terrible. Even acclaimed composers like Williams and very talented composers like Holt can sometimes create pieces that don't move most listeners.

From a composer's perspective, the music is a collaborative effort. Williams set the tone with his iconic score, and Holt is building on that legacy while introducing her own unique styles and signatures. However, the music is just one part of the entire storytelling experience. In many cases, the writing, acting, editing, and directing are just as crucial to a show's success as the music.

Many die-hard fans, especially those familiar with the Lord of the Rings score, expect specific themes to be used in different variations. There are undoubtedly times in the series where these themes could fit perfectly. The Force Theme, in particular, could have added a sense of gravity and awe when Obi-Wan uses it to save Leia. But sometimes, new themes can enhance a show's emotional impact in ways that old ones do not.

It's worth noting that music in a TV series is often tailored to fit the tone and style of each episode. Williams' score for the original trilogy has a grand and epic feel, while Holt's score for Obi-Wan Kenobi might be more understated and nuanced. This approach can keep the music fresh and relevant for the modern audience, even if it diverges from the original style a bit.

Hidden Themes in OBI-WAN KENOBI Part 3

Here are some examples of hidden themes from episode 3:

1. The iconic Imperial March, played during a tense confrontation between Obi-Wan and a Stormtrooper. It sets the tone for the scene and adds a touch of gravity.

2. The Force Theme, subtly woven into a sequence where Obi-Wan practices lightsaber techniques. It gives the scene a sense of purpose and significance.

3. The Rebel Fanfare, played in the background during a strategic meeting. It adds a sense of camaraderie and unity among the rebels.

OBI-WAN KENOBI Part 4 Breakdown

Here are some examples of hidden themes from episode 4:

1. The Force Theme, used during a pivotal moment where Obi-Wan employs his skills to overcome a challenge. It conveys the importance and power of the Force.

2. Vader's Theme, played during a scene with a young Ben Solo. It creates an eerie and ominous atmosphere, hinting at his possible future alignment with the dark side.

3. The Rebel Fanfare, used in a montage showing the rebels' efforts. It reinforces the unity and determination of the characters.

While some fans may find the music "meh," it's important to remember that the composer's goal is to create an emotional connection with the audience. Music can evoke different emotions and moods, and sometimes it's the subtle differences that resonate the most.

Ultimately, the music in Obi-Wan Kenobi stands as a testament to both Williams' legacy and Holt's skill. Neither can or should overshadow the other, as both contribute to the rich tapestry of the Star Wars universe. Whether viewers enjoy the music or not, it's clear that the effort put into it is commendable and adds value to the series.

So next time you watch Obi-Wan Kenobi, take a moment to appreciate the musical nuances. They may be "easter eggs" for the ears, but they're a vital part of the storytelling experience.