Merrill Jenson, composer of the score for Emma Smith—My Story, recently shared his personal insights about the music found on the newly released soundtrack.
“To help with the story’s narrative, particular hymn tunes of the period were used to express the emotions Emma might have felt as she struggled with life’s trials,” Jenson said. “‘Shall We Meet Beyond the River’ seemed a perfect fit. The hymn could stand as a metaphor for Emma longing for a reunion of her lost children as well as a call for future generations of her family to reunite.” It is included in the score.
The hymn “If You Could Hie to Kolob” also became a major thematic idea. Jenson said it is first heard simply, just hinting at the melody. As Emma’s story is further revealed, a little more harmonic complexity is introduced to the hymn. Then later, as the story progresses the hymn becomes more recognizable. The film concludes with the hymn’s full choral version.
The music is somewhat subtle, and for Jenson the intent was to have the viewer ‘feel’ the music rather than hear it. The music was meant to outline action and also lead the narrative. “It needed to portray Emma’s soul, her life as somewhat tragic but with an uplifting sense of hope. Emma’s theme depicts those characteristics,” Jenson said.
Music seemed to be a very important part of Emma Smith’s life. Emma received a commandment of the Lord to compile the first Hymnal for the newly organized Church.
Jenson pointed out Katherine Nelson’s involvement both in the film and on the soundtrack. “Her portrayal of Emma in the film is superb,” Jenson said. “Her voice is as pure as new fallen snow.” Nelson performed four songs on the soundtrack, including the full versions of three hymns used in the film, “Shall We Meet Beyond the River,” “If You Could Hie to Kolob,” and “Adam-ondi-Ahman.” She also performed her own written song, “I Remain.”
The soundtrack was released August 12, 2008 and is available here at MormonMedia.com.