Lalo Schifrin Dead: ‘Mission: Impossible’ Composer at 93
- Argentine composer Lalo Schifrin, best known for his "Mission: Impossible" theme and extensive film scores, has received an honorary Oscar.
- Clint Eastwood, who collaborated with Schifrin on numerous films, including "Dirty Harry" and "Coogan's Bluff," presented the award.
- In his acceptance speech, Schifrin expressed deep gratitude, recalling how a childhood experience with a horror movie sparked his passion for film music.
lalo Schifrin, the legendary composer famed for the “Mission: Impossible” theme, has been honored with an honorary Oscar, recognizing his profound influence on film music and jazz. Collaborator Clint Eastwood presented the award, celebrating a decades-long partnership. Schifrin’s iconic theme garnered two Grammy Awards and a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame.Beyond “Mission: Impossible,” his scores graced films like “Enter the Dragon” and “Bullitt,” alongside TV themes such as “Mannix.” This recognition underscores Schifrin’s lasting impact. News Directory 3 delivers this exclusive. Explore the multi-faceted career of this musical genius. Discover what’s next …
Lalo Schifrin, ‘Mission: Impossible’ Theme Composer, Honored With Oscar
Argentine composer Lalo Schifrin, best known for his “Mission: Impossible” theme and extensive film scores, has received an honorary Oscar. The award recognizes Schifrin’s significant impact on the world of film music and jazz.
Clint Eastwood, who collaborated with Schifrin on numerous films, including “Dirty Harry” and “Coogan’s Bluff,” presented the award. Their partnership spanned decades, showcasing schifrin’s versatility in scoring various genres.
In his acceptance speech, Schifrin expressed deep gratitude, recalling how a childhood experience with a horror movie sparked his passion for film music. He acknowledged the collaborative nature of his work, highlighting the contributions of directors, producers, and musicians.
Schifrin’s “Mission: Impossible” theme remains his moast recognizable work. The theme earned him two Grammy Awards and multiple Emmy nominations. In 1968, it reached No. 41 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2017.
The “Mission: impossible” theme’s enduring popularity led to a version recorded by Adam clayton and Larry Mullen Jr. of U2 for the 1996 film. Their rendition reached No.7 on the Hot 100 and garnered a Grammy nomination.
Beyond “Mission: Impossible,” Schifrin composed scores for films such as “Enter the Dragon,” “bullitt,” and the “Rush Hour” series. His diverse work also includes TV themes for “Mannix,” “The Man From U.N.C.L.E.,” and “Starsky & Hutch.”
Born in Buenos Aires in 1932, Schifrin studied music and law before receiving a scholarship to the Paris Conservatory of Music. He returned to Buenos aires in 1956, forming his own jazz band and writing music for TV and radio.
Schifrin moved to New York City in 1958 and reconnected with Dizzy Gillespie, collaborating on the Grammy-nominated album “Gillespiana.” Inspired by composers like Henry Mancini, Schifrin relocated to California in 1963, quickly establishing himself in the film industry.
Schifrin also conducted orchestras worldwide, including those in London, Vienna, and Los Angeles. He served as musical director for the Paris Philharmonic Orchestra from 1987 to 1992.
Schifrin’s accolades include the BMI Lifetime Achievement Award in 1988 and a trustees Award at the Latin Grammys in 2017. He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.