Very, very sad indeed. A true genius. How rarely does that word apply and yet with this man it poured out of him.
Mozart is often given the title of greatest composer ever by virtue of his versatility. The validity of that criteria may be debated but if you apply it to film composers Jerry is far beyond anyone else. Astonishing really if you consider the range from say Freud, to The Blue Max, to Planet of the Apes, to Patton (films just a few years apart.) These scores are so entirely different as to seem as if four different composers wrote them. One could add countless other films that are equally distinct and brilliant such as The Omen, for which he received his only Oscar (and tells you all you need to know about the veracity of that award.)
Jerry's insight into the heart of the story, visual and emotional components of film and then perfect realization musically (often with startling originality) is a supreme gift that is singular in the art form. Few film composers have ever sent the kind of electricity, fear, dread, suspense or even beauty through a crowd like JG. Always perfectly appropriate and adding tons to the film experience.
Personally, I knew Mr. Goldsmith and spent a fair amount of time with him on sound stages watching him conduct his music (a first rate conductor.) A very likable man with no pretenses or airs. Not a phony bone in his body. Always engaging if presented with intelligent conversation and indeed very gracious.
My favorite image is him walking across the campus of Disney Studios with his white lions mane of hair, watching the employees (secretaries, security, et. al.) thrill as they greeted him. He had the bearing of a king and was adored by the common folk. I shall miss him as shall we all.
Goodbye to a great musician and great man. He was the greatest inspiration to me and countless others who I know I speak for when I say, we shall never see the likes of him again.
Dave Connor
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