The Musical Landscape of Like Stars on Earth: Composers, Instruments, and Emotional Storytelling

The Musical Landscape of Like Stars on Earth

The eloquent soundtrack of the movie Like Stars on Earth plays an integral role in bringing its narrative to life. Composers A.R. Rahman and Julius Packiam created a rich musical landscape using a diverse instrumentation. Let’s explore how the soundtrack’s composition techniques and instrumental choices stoke the movie’s emotional spirit.

Orchestrating an Emotive Score 

Rahman and Packiam composed the score to accentuate the film’s poignant moments. Sweeping strings underscore scenes depicting young Ishaan’s inner turmoil and struggles with disability. Expert usage of woodwinds brings a pastoral innocence to sequences of childhood joy and imagination. These orchestration choices infuse the story’s heartfelt family drama with musical emotion.

Integrating Melodic Themes

Memorable melodic motifs represent key relationships. A lilting piano theme signifies the caring connection between Ishaan and teacher Ram Shankar. A majestic brass theme accompanies shots of the wise principal awaking the school to Ishaan’s needs. These melodic throughlines musically enrich the bonds at the story’s core.

 Spotlighting Individual Instruments

Specific solo instruments shine in pivotal scenes. A mournful oboe solo soundtracks a melancholy montage of Ishaan’s alienation at school. A virtuosic sarod piece accompanies Ishaan discovering his artistic talent. The distinctive tones of the sitar and tabla arise during meditative moments, complementing the story’s Indian setting.

Exploring the Psychology and Philosophy of Like Stars on Earth

Combining Indian and Orchestral Sounds 

The score blends Indian instruments like the sitar, sarod and tabla with a western orchestra. This fusion mirrors the film’s message of unity through diversity. The seamless integration of musical traditions underscores the universality of self-expression.