JOHNNY BELINDA

Original soundtrack from notable Jean Negulesco drama with Oscar-winner Jane Wyman. Max Steiner provides story of deaf-mute woman with both sensitive, dramatic underscore. Development of primary theme is noteworthy: Steiner opens with rich, modal-ish treatment of initial bars of theme, melts into major key statement but reveals only portions of melody. As score progresses, theme unwinds. Adding to interest is "Scottish" tune for family background plus numerous other ideas for characters, events. Material takes major turn towards intensity with searing "rape" music for strings. First simulating then distorting country dance for fiddles, composer brings frightening cruelty to Belinda's plight. Steiner at his fiercest! Highlights are many but one quiet sequence bears spotlighting: For "No Lesson Today" (which follows rape scene), Steiner suggests main theme in flute over vibraphone but avoids literal quote, fashions unique, complex harmonies underneath. Tune eventually emerges in clarinet with warmer harmony. Steiner captures both pre-rape innocence, post-rape awareness of Belinda. Genuinely haunting character music! Brigham Young University production offers nearly-complete score in mono from original reference discs in excellent condition. Rudy Behlmer, John Morgan provide literate - and lengthy - notes. Add plethora of stills, booklet becomes difficult to replace in jewel box! Max Steiner conducts.