A Thrilling Premiere: The Silence of the Lambs with Live Orchestra
A chilling classic reimagined: experience Hannibal Lecter’s world with Howard Shore’s score performed live.
The London Soundtrack Festival 2025 has announced a landmark event for film and music lovers: the multi-Oscar-winning classic The Silence of the Lambs will be screened at the Barbican with Howard Shore’s masterful score performed live for the very first time. Taking place on 24 March 2025, this special evening will feature the acclaimed Academy of St Martin-in-the-Fields orchestra, conducted by Ben Palmer, with Shore himself in attendance.
As one of the most celebrated psychological thrillers of all time, Jonathan Demme’s The Silence of the Lambs continues to captivate audiences more than three decades after its release. Anthony Hopkins’ chilling portrayal of Hannibal Lecter and Jodie Foster’s Oscar-winning turn as Clarice Starling remain iconic. However, it is Shore’s score—richly atmospheric and deeply unsettling—that elevates the film to a work of art. For the first time, audiences will experience this haunting music performed live in perfect synchronization with the on-screen drama, creating an immersive experience unlike any other.
Adding further intrigue to the evening, the performance will be followed by an exclusive Q&A session with Howard Shore and other special guests yet to be announced. The intimate discussion promises insights into Shore’s creative process, the making of the film, and the enduring legacy of his work.
London Soundtrack Festival 2025: A New Cultural Highlight
The live performance of The Silence of the Lambs is one of the headline events in the inaugural London Soundtrack Festival, set to take place in March 2025. This ambitious new festival celebrates the art of film, TV, and games music, bringing together some of the world’s most renowned composers, orchestras, and directors. Hosted at iconic venues across the city, including the Southbank Centre, Alexandra Palace, and the BFI IMAX, the festival cements London’s reputation as a global hub for soundtrack artistry.
Howard Shore, one of the most celebrated composers of his generation, is at the heart of the festival’s programming. Shore’s extraordinary career spans decades and includes scores for The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Mrs. Doubtfire, Se7en, and numerous collaborations with Martin Scorsese and David Cronenberg. During the festival, Shore will receive the inaugural Gunning Inspiration Award, honoring his lifelong contributions to the art of film music. The award will be presented by Cronenberg during the festival’s central Gala Concert.
The festival also features other events celebrating Shore’s work, including sold-out screenings of The Lord of the Rings trilogy with live orchestra, and a special Q&A reflecting on Shore and Cronenberg’s 45-year creative partnership. Fans of their collaborations can also attend screenings of Crash and Dead Ringers, introduced by both Shore and Cronenberg.
A Celebration of Soundtrack Artistry
Founded by concert producer, broadcaster, and musician Tommy Pearson, the London Soundtrack Festival aims to bring film and TV music to the forefront of cultural appreciation. The festival will showcase London’s legendary orchestras, world-class musicians, and iconic venues, drawing attention to the city’s pivotal role in the global soundtrack industry.
Inspired by the late Christopher Gunning, a BAFTA-winning composer celebrated for his work on Poirot and La Vie En Rose, the festival pays tribute to his legacy of creativity and excellence. Pearson, a long-time advocate for soundtrack artistry, has created a program that highlights not just the music, but the stories, talent, and collaboration behind the scores that shape our cultural memory.
Tickets for The Silence of the Lambs – In Concert will go on general sale on 22 November 2024, with pre-sale access available to Barbican members and festival subscribers. To learn more about this event and the full festival lineup, visit londonsoundtrackfestival.com.
Elena Leo is the Arts & Lifestyle Editor of Ikon London Magazine.
