By Lee Pfeiffer
One of the few remaining symbols of the golden age of film scores has passed away. Maurice Jarre has died at his California home. He was 84. Jarre was a three-time Oscar winner for his scores for director David Lean's films
Doctor Zhivago, Lawrence of Arabia and
A Passage to India. Indeed, the scores for
Zhivago and
Lawrence are among the most recognizable film compositions in history. Jarre won acclaim for his other great scores including
Grand Prix, The Train, The Longest Day, Villa Rides, 5 Card Stud, The Damned, The Man Who Would Be King and
Witness. He also composed the score for Lean's ill-fated epic love story
Ryan's Daughter. Although the film was not a success, Jarre reaped acclaim for his work. In 1966, he composed his first score for a western for director Richard Brooks'
The Professionals and emerged with one of the most exciting film compositions of 60s cinema. In February, Jarre- who was also an accomplished conductor in the theater - accepted a lifetime achievement award at The Berlin Film Festival.Â
Click here to read review of the Maurice Jarre DVD of David Lean scores