Introduction
For decades, John Williams' iconic scores have defined the sonic universe of Star Wars. From the triumphant brass of the main theme to the melancholic strings of "The Imperial March," his music is etched into the collective memory of generations. Yet, The Mandalorian theme, composed by Ludwig Göransson, has emerged as a masterpiece that stands proudly alongside Williams' work—despite being entirely different. This guide will walk you through the steps to fully appreciate why this theme is considered the greatest Star Wars music composed outside the Williams canon.
What You Need
- A quiet listening environment (headphones recommended)
- Access to The Mandalorian theme (streaming services or YouTube)
- Basic familiarity with John Williams' Star Wars scores
- An open mind and curiosity about modern orchestration
- Optional: A second listening session with the show's visual context
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Understand the Legacy of John Williams' Star Wars Music
Before you can appreciate a deviation, you must grasp the standard. Williams' Star Wars scores are characterized by brassy orchestral fanfares, sweeping romantic strings, and celestial glissandos from harp or celeste. They evoke the epic, heroic, and mystical aspects of the galaxy. Listen to the opening of A New Hope or the throne room finale. Note the use of leitmotifs—specific themes tied to characters or ideas. This foundation will help you contrast with Göransson's approach.
Step 2: Recognize the Challenge—Composing Outside Williams' Shadow
Every composer hired for a Star Wars project since 1977 has faced the daunting task of either imitating Williams or forging a new path. Most, like Kevin Kiner in The Clone Wars, have chosen careful imitation. Göransson, however, chose boldly to create a sound that respects but does not copy Williams. Understand that The Mandalorian is a different kind of Star Wars story—a gritty, lone-wolf Western with samurai influences. The music must reflect that, not a grand space opera.
Step 3: Listen to the Theme with Focused Attention
Now, play the main theme of The Mandalorian. Close your eyes and let the first notes wash over you. Notice the opening motif: a simple, repeated pattern played by a muted trumpet or flugelhorn, reminiscent of Ennio Morricone's spaghetti Western scores. It's sparse, not bombastic. This immediately signals a departure from Williams' orchestral density.
Step 4: Analyze the Musical Elements
Break down what you hear:
- Instrumentation: The theme features a prominent electric guitar (wah-wah effects) and a choir of vocalists singing in a fictional language. This is unheard of in traditional Star Wars music. Göransson used a hybrid of orchestra, folk instruments, and synths.
- Melody: It's built on a pentatonic scale, giving it a folk-like, almost primal quality. Contrast this with Williams' complex, leaping intervals.
- Rhythm: There's a steady, walking tempo—like a lone traveler. No frantic percussion. It's contemplative.
- Harmony: Mostly in a minor key, with unresolved tensions. This creates a sense of loneliness and danger, fitting the bounty hunter's life.
Step 5: Compare and Contrast with John Williams' Style
Play a short excerpt from Williams' Star Wars: A New Hope main theme immediately after. Notice the differences:
- Williams uses a full symphony orchestra with brash brass; Göransson uses a smaller ensemble with featured solo instruments.
- Williams' themes are melodic and heroic; Göransson's is more atmospheric and introspective.
- Williams employs leitmotifs that are instantly recognizable; Göransson's theme is more of a core identity that evolves subtly across episodes.
Yet, both are equally effective in their context. This step is crucial to understand that greatness can come from different directions.
Step 6: Appreciate How It Fits the Show's Tone
Watch a scene from the series—preferably the opening credits—with the theme playing. Observe how the music doesn't just accompany the visuals; it defines them. The wide shots of deserts, the solitary figure, the sense of a vast uncaring universe—all are amplified by the theme. Göransson's music is minimalist, allowing silence and space. This mirrors the show's aesthetic: a neowestern with samurai honor. It's a bold reinvention of what Star Wars can sound like.
Step 7: Listen to the Full Soundtrack for Context
After you've internalized the main theme, explore other tracks from the Mandalorian score. Pay attention to how Göransson weaves the primary theme into action cues, emotional moments, and character motifs. Notice the use of ethnic instruments (like the recorder or duduk) for alien cultures. This expands the Star Wars sonic palette without losing identity. You'll see that the theme itself is just the tip of an iceberg of innovation.
Step 8: Form Your Own Conclusion
Now, step back and ask yourself: Does this music evoke the same emotional weight as Williams? For many fans, the answer is yes—but in a different way. The Mandalorian theme is not trying to be another "Imperial March." It's a growling, organic creature that lives in the shadows. It's arguably the most distinctive and memorable Star Wars music not composed by John Williams, precisely because it dares to be new. Write down your reaction, or discuss it with fellow fans.
Tips for Deepening Your Appreciation
- Listen to the theme at least three times in a row; subtle layers reveal themselves.
- Compare it with other non-Williams Star Wars scores, like those for Rogue One or Obi-Wan Kenobi, to see how each composer handled the challenge.
- Watch interviews with Ludwig Göransson where he discusses his compositional process (available on YouTube).
- Attend a live performance of the score if possible—the choir and guitar are even more powerful in concert.
- Remember that appreciation is subjective; if you still prefer Williams, that's fine. But give this theme a fair chance as a unique artistic statement.