Acknowledge the Power
Some of the most powerful moments in film don’t come from what we see—they come from what we hear.
Sweeping landscapes, heroic journeys, and unforgettable characters are brought to life through music that stays with us long after the credits roll. In this upcoming performance on March 24, 2026, the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Maestro Richard Prior, invites you to experience two of the most beloved film scores of our time: music from The Lord of the Rings by Howard Shore (arr. John Whitney) and How to Train Your Dragon by John Powell. These great compositions are just part of the Epic Adventures, Myths and Galaxies concert which will begin at 7:30 PM in Callaway Auditorium, LaGrange, GA. (See the full concert program below)
From Middle-earth—the legendary world of The Lord of the Rings—to the island of Berk from How to Train Your Dragon, these scores transport audiences to places filled with adventure, danger, and heart.
The Lord of the Rings
Howard Shore, one of the most celebrated film composers of our time, crafted an expansive musical language for The Lord of the Rings. Inspired by the operatic tradition of Wilhelm Richard Wagner, Shore employs leitmotifs—distinct musical themes representing characters, cultures, and places—which help audiences follow the story across the trilogy’s long and complex narrative. These recurring themes act as musical signposts, guiding listeners through the journeys, conflicts, and triumphs of Middle-earth. The result is a richly woven tapestry that gives the trilogy both emotional depth and epic scale, making the music unforgettable even outside the theater.
How to Train Your Dragon
John Powell’s score for How to Train Your Dragon is a masterclass in energy, melody, and emotion. Powell, a self-taught composer, has a remarkable talent for blending folk and world music influences. The result is music that feels both epic and intimate. His soaring themes capture the thrill of flight, the excitement of adventure, and the warmth of friendship in Berk. The rhythms are driving and exhilarating, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats while also tugging at the heart. The story features Toothless, the dragon whose very name hints at the “wordless” magic of this music, bringing the bond between rider and dragon to life in every note. Powell’s score has a playful, adventurous spirit, yet it carries emotional weight, making it one of the most beloved animated scores of the 21st century. Experiencing it live allows audiences to feel the story unfold in a whole new way.
Full LSO Concert Lineup for March 24
- The Annual Youth Orchestra Side-By-Side Collaborative Experience with the LSO
Music from The Lord of the Dance: The Lord of the Dance * The Cry of the Celts by Ronan Hardiman, arranged by Larry Moore - Appearance by special guest artist, Lauren Yejin Kang, 2026 YAC Max Kaplan Award Winner
Violin Concerto No. 3 in B minor, Op. 63. I. Allegro non troppo by Camille Saint-Saëns [More about this section of the concert HERE.] - How to Train Your Dragon by John Powell
- Music from The Lord of the Rings by Howard Shore, arr. John Whitney
- Star Wars Suite (Complete Concert Suite) by John Williams [More about this section of the concert HERE.]
When Words Aren’t Enough
Together, these works showcase the incredible range of modern film composition. They remind us that music is more than accompaniment—it is the story. It shapes emotion, builds tension, and gives voice to moments words cannot fully express.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of these films or simply love the power of a full symphony orchestra, this program offers a chance to experience these scores in a new way—live, immersive, and deeply moving.
Join us as we journey from Middle-earth to Berk (and beyond) on March 24th at 7:30 PM and rediscover the magic of storytelling through music.
