Howard Shore's iconic score for "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy has once again been named the UK's favorite film music, marking the third consecutive year of this prestigious recognition in the 2025 Classic FM Movie Music Hall of Fame. The announcement, based on a poll of over 10,000 listeners, highlights the enduring appeal and profound emotional impact of Shore's work.
Shore expressed his gratitude for the continued acclaim, stating, "It's an honor that The Lord of the Rings has topped the Classic FM Movie Music Hall of Fame for the third year running. It's wonderful that audiences continue to enjoy this musical journey through J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth, and I am thrilled the music resonates so strongly today." Classic FM presenter Jonathan Ross echoed these sentiments, describing the score as "legendary in every sense" and essential to the films' immersive storytelling.
The poll also saw strong performances from other renowned composers. John Williams secured the second and third positions with his scores for "Schindler's List" and "Star Wars," respectively. Hans Zimmer's impactful scores for "Gladiator" and "Interstellar" were also featured in the top ten, alongside notable works by John Barry and Ennio Morricone. The 50th anniversary of Steven Spielberg's "Jaws" saw its score by John Williams climb to 13th place.
Further celebrating Shore's compositions, a limited-edition 6-LP boxed set of "The Lord of the Rings: The Motion Picture Trilogy Soundtrack" was released on May 23, 2025. Additionally, live concert performances of "The Two Towers" are scheduled for September 5-6, 2025, in Quebec City, and "The Return of the King" will be performed in Antwerp, Belgium, from September 18-21, 2025. Shore's intricate use of leitmotifs has solidified his score's place as a celebrated work of art, continuing to captivate audiences worldwide.