Poster Bride of Frankenstein
Elsa Lanchester as The Bride of Frankenstein
Courtesy of Universal Pictures

Flicks in Five: Franz Waxman

Flicks in Five: Franz Waxman

Franz Waxman was born in 1906. He was a German-American composer of Jewish decent, known for some of the great music scores of the golden age of Hollywood. His film scores include A Place in the Sun, Sunset Boulevard, Rebecca, and Bride of Frankenstein, among many others.

He started his early music career in Berlin by playing in cabarets, and later worked in the German film industry as an orchestrator. While living in Berlin, Waxman was beaten by Nazi sympathizers, causing he and his wife to leave Germany for Paris, and eventually, Hollywood.

Once in California, Waxman met director James Whale, who asked the composer to help him score Bride of Frankenstein. That opportunity eventually lead to Waxman being named head of music at Universal Studios.

On this week's Flicks in Five, we'll hear some of Waxman's score for Bride of Frankenstein.

Original trailer — Bride of Frankenstein

Love the music?

Donate by phone
1-800-562-8440

Show your support by making a gift to YourClassical.

Each day, we’re here for you with thoughtful streams that set the tone for your day – not to mention the stories and programs that inspire you to new discovery and help you explore the music you love.

YourClassical is available for free, because we are listener-supported public media. Take a moment to make your gift today.

More Ways to Give

Your Donation

$5/month
$10/month
$15/month
$20/month
$
<!--DO NOT REMOVE-CONTENTS PLACED HERE-->