Encore Themes Original Motion Picture Soundtracks Merrill Jenson CD

“Encore” presents a comprehensive collection of film score themes composed and conducted by Merrill Jenson, showcasing his work across multiple motion pictures. This compilation allows listeners to experience Jenson’s orchestral artistry and thematic compositions that have enhanced numerous films, particularly those produced within LDS (Latter-day Saint) cinema.

ABOUT MERRILL JENSON: Merrill Jenson is a respected film composer known primarily for his work on LDS-themed films and documentaries. His orchestral compositions combine traditional Hollywood scoring techniques with sensitivity to the spiritual and emotional content of the films he scores. Jenson’s music emphasizes melody, emotional resonance, and orchestral color, creating memorable themes that stand alone as concert pieces while supporting the narratives they accompany.

FILMS REPRESENTED: The compilation draws from a diverse range of films:

Religious/LDS Films:

• “The Book of Mormon” – Religious historical film
• “The First Vision” – LDS religious history
• “Nora’s Christmas Gift” – Faith-based story
• “Remembering Nauvoo” – LDS historical narrative
• “How Rare a Possession” – Religious missionary story
• “The Prodigal Son” – Biblical/religious theme

Dramatic Films:

• “Windwalker” – 1980 film about Native American life starring Trevor Howard
• “Harry’s War” – Dramatic comedy
• “Takedown” – Action/thriller
• “Solo” – Drama
• “What Is Real?” – Philosophical drama

TRACK LISTING WITH TIMINGS:

DISC 1:

1. Polynesian Odyssey (Overture, Epilogue) – 4:53
2. Windwalker (Windwalker Mtn) – 4:23
3. The Other Wiseman (Theme, Boyhood and The Great Journey) – 3:26
4. How Rare A Possession (The Book of Mormon Mission in the Parks) – 4:19
5. Alamo—Price of Freedom (The Youth, Texan Pride) – 4:24
6. The Prodigal Son (The Power of Love) – 4:07
7. Remembering Nauvoo (Remembering, Building the City) – 4:43
8. Nora’s Christmas Gift (Impending Blindness, John and Amelia, Overture) – 5:53
9. Harry’s War (Harry vs. Great Chase) – 4:54
10. Carthage Jail (In the Youth) – 4:02
11. Solo (Pride and the Crash) – 3:55
12. Labor of Love (Finding the Courage, Homecoming) – 3:30
13. Takedown (Love Theme) – 3:45
14. What Is Real? (Putting Baby to Bed) – 2:53
15. Salt Lake Sara (Overture) – 3:37
16. The First Vision (Opening, A Prayer in the Morning) – 3:13

TOTAL TIME: 71:01

COMPILATION APPROACH: Rather than presenting complete film scores, this collection extracts key themes and memorable cues from each film, creating a concert-like listening experience. The arrangements allow the music to stand independently while representing each film’s emotional core. The compilation format introduces listeners to Jenson’s breadth of work across different genres and subjects.

ORCHESTRAL ARRANGEMENTS: Jenson’s compositions feature full orchestral arrangements with strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. His style emphasizes melodic themes, lush harmonies, and careful orchestration that serves both dramatic narrative and standalone listening. The music ranges from intimate chamber-like passages to sweeping orchestral statements.

LDS CINEMA CONTEXT: Many of the films represented are significant works in LDS cinema – films produced for or about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its history. This genre of filmmaking has created its own audience and aesthetic, with Jenson being one of its most prominent composers. His music for these films combines reverence with accessibility, supporting faith-affirming narratives.

THEMATIC CONTENT: The themes explore various subjects:

• Religious faith and conversion
• Historical events and figures
• Family relationships
• Moral courage and conviction
• Cultural heritage (Native American, Pioneer history)
• Personal sacrifice and dedication
• Spiritual experiences

MUSICAL INFLUENCES: Jenson’s compositional style draws from classical Hollywood film scoring traditions, particularly composers like John Williams, James Horner, and Maurice Jarre. His music emphasizes memorable melodic themes, romantic orchestration, and emotional accessibility that connects with audiences unfamiliar with concert music.

LABEL INFORMATION: Deseret Book P.O. Box 30178, Salt Lake City, Utah 84130 (801) 534-1515 © & ℗ 1992 Deseret Book Company All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. SKU: 2300192 ID 1664 U.S. $14.95

Deseret Book is the publishing and retail arm of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, making this an official LDS-affiliated release.

TARGET AUDIENCE: This compilation primarily serves LDS audiences familiar with these films, though the orchestral music appeals to anyone who appreciates film scores and orchestral music. The collection offers both nostalgia for those who’ve seen these films and introduction to Jenson’s compositional work for new listeners.

CONCERT MUSIC QUALITY: While composed for films, these themes work effectively as standalone concert pieces. The selection and arrangement emphasize musical coherence and listening pleasure beyond their original dramatic contexts. The compilation functions as a concert album showcasing Jenson’s thematic gifts.

ALBUM ARTWORK: Elegant, sophisticated design featuring bold “ENCORE” typography in gold/beige against dramatic cloudy background. The classic, understated aesthetic suggests serious orchestral music rather than commercial soundtrack release. Clean typography and professional presentation reflect the quality and dignity of the music. Back cover uses simple, clear layout with comprehensive track listings organized by disc, making navigation easy.

HISTORICAL DOCUMENTATION: Beyond entertainment value, this compilation serves as historical documentation of LDS cinema and its musical accompaniment. These scores represent significant productions in faith-based filmmaking, and this collection preserves important cultural and artistic works.

CONDITION: CD and jewel case in good used condition with normal wear. Complete with original back insert showing comprehensive track listings with timings, label information, and pricing. Disc plays without issues.

PERFECT FOR: Fans of film scores and orchestral music, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints familiar with these films, collectors of LDS cultural productions, those interested in faith-based cinema, admirers of melodic, accessible orchestral composition, anyone who appreciates classic Hollywood scoring styles, students of film music, or those discovering the breadth of Merrill Jenson’s compositional work. This compilation serves both as introduction to an underappreciated composer and as nostalgic collection for those familiar with these significant films.

Price Range: $5.00 – $10.00

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