Film music has an incredible ability to tell stories, evoke deep emotions, and transport us to different worlds—all without a single word. As pianists, we get the unique opportunity to bring these cinematic moments to life through expressive melodies, lush harmonies, and dynamic storytelling at the keyboard.
But with so many iconic film scores out there, which ones should you learn? Here’s a curated list of 10 must-learn film scores that every pianist—whether a beginner or an advanced player—should have in their repertoire.
1. Comptine d’un autre été – Yann Tiersen (Amélie)
This enchanting minimalist piece is one of the most recognizable piano compositions in film. Tiersen’s repetitive patterns, delicate phrasing, and wistful melancholy make it a perfect choice for pianists looking to develop touch and expressiveness.
💡 Why Learn It? The piece is deceptively simple but requires nuanced control and sensitivity, making it an excellent study in dynamics and phrasing.
2. Main Theme – Hans Zimmer (Interstellar)
Hans Zimmer’s powerful, emotionally charged film scores are beloved by many, and Interstellar’s main theme is a stunning example of minimalism meets cinematic grandeur. With layered arpeggios, swelling dynamics, and an evolving intensity, this piece is both meditative and deeply dramatic.
💡 Why Learn It? The repetitive left-hand patterns and gradually intensifying harmonies make it a great endurance exercise while teaching the art of building tension and release.
3. Big My Secret – Michael Nyman (The Piano)
While The Heart Asks Pleasure First is the most well-known piece from The Piano, Big My Secret offers a darker, more dramatic intensity, making it a fantastic alternative for pianists looking for something lesser-known yet equally captivating. With its hypnotic left-hand patterns, rapid flourishes, and dynamic contrasts, this piece showcases Nyman’s minimalist yet emotionally charged style.
💡 Why Learn It? The driving rhythm, intricate fingerwork, and expressive build-up make it an excellent choice for developing dexterity, articulation, and emotional depth at the piano.
4. Merry-Go-Round of Life – Joe Hisaishi (Howl’s Moving Castle)
Joe Hisaishi is a master of crafting unforgettable melodies, and Merry-Go-Round of Life is one of his most iconic and beloved piano pieces. This elegant waltz combines whimsical charm with deep nostalgia, making it a delight to play and an audience favourite.
💡 Why Learn It? The flowing arpeggios and dynamic contrasts make it an excellent exercise in expressive playing and romantic phrasing.
5. Main Theme – John Williams (Schindler’s List)
Few film scores are as hauntingly beautiful as Schindler’s List. John Williams’ heartbreaking yet elegant melody translates perfectly to the piano, requiring a delicate, expressive touch to convey its deep emotional weight.
💡 Why Learn It? This piece teaches lyrical phrasing, rubato, and emotional depth, making it a masterclass in expressive playing.
6. Feather Theme – Alan Silvestri (Forrest Gump)
This gentle yet emotionally resonant theme from Forrest Gump captures innocence, nostalgia, and a sense of wonder. The flowing arpeggios and delicate melody make it a deeply touching and rewarding piece to play.
💡 Why Learn It? Its dreamy, repetitive patterns make it soothing yet expressive, helping pianists refine legato playing and dynamic control.
7. He’s a Pirate – Klaus Badelt & Hans Zimmer (Pirates of the Caribbean)
A swashbuckling, adventurous theme, He’s a Pirate is an energetic and technically challenging piece that instantly captivates audiences. With fast-paced runs, rhythmic precision, and bold accents, it’s a must-learn for pianists who love high-energy music.
💡 Why Learn It? The piece improves finger dexterity and rhythmic control, making it a fun and flashy showpiece.
8. Glasgow Love Theme – Craig Armstrong (Love Actually)
This gorgeous, heartfelt theme captures the essence of love, warmth, and nostalgia. The gentle harmonies and flowing melody make it a perfect choice for pianists who love playing expressive and cinematic music.
💡 Why Learn It? The rich voicings and phrasing make it an excellent study in emotional depth and subtle dynamic shifts.
9. Truman Sleeps – Philip Glass (The Truman Show)
Philip Glass’s Truman Sleeps is a gentle, hypnotic piano piece that perfectly captures the dreamlike, introspective atmosphere of The Truman Show. With its soothing repetition, evolving harmonies, and delicate phrasing, the piece gradually builds in emotional depth while maintaining a sense of serenity and wonder.
💡 Why Learn It? The subtle dynamic shifts, steady arpeggios, and meditative phrasing make it a great exercise in control, minimalism, and emotional expression at the piano.
10. City of Stars – Justin Hurwitz (La La Land)
This jazzy, nostalgic ballad is simple yet incredibly expressive, making it a favourite among pianists and audiences alike. Its gentle swing, rich harmonies, and heartfelt melody make it a perfect solo or duet piece.
💡 Why Learn It? The subtle rubato, expressive dynamics, and jazz-influenced chords make it an ideal introduction to jazz-style playing and phrasing.
Final Thoughts
Film music has the power to transport both the performer and listener into another world, making it a fantastic addition to any pianist’s repertoire. Whether you’re drawn to hauntingly beautiful melodies, epic orchestral themes, or playful waltzes, there’s something here for every musician.
Which of these film scores have you learned? Let me know if you have a favourite that should be on this list! 🎶✨
NATALYA PLAYS PIANO 
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