The JHFM Association deserves high praise and sincere gratitude from everyone passionate about the music of James Horner for its bold decision to publish a full length study on the composer’s life and work. While JHFM is a tremendous resource for the maestro’s worldwide legion of fans I think only by means of a scholarly well researched book is it possible to put the stamp of greatness on Horner’s achievements and his towering contribution over many years to the art of music for film. My view would be that lack of material is not your main problem. If anything you have an incredible abundance of primary sources on which to draw, and perhaps the most daunting task confronting the authors is the editing of this prodigious archival wealth, so that the book has a well-defined shape, is cogently argued but not of excessive length. In my view the aim of the project is succinctly encapsulated in the title of one of the key articles published on JHFM: James Horner’s place in film music history. I believe this short yet important analysis serves as a springboard for the book’s principal objective: in the vast firmament of film composition over the past hundred years, there is truly a place for the prolific movie scores of James Horner, and the aim of those writing the book must be to find that place and to ensure that he is recognised and his work appreciated in perpetuity. The JHFM team has demonstrated time and again that it possesses the analytical skill and intellectual rigour to succeed in this huge task, and I wish you the very best in taking up such a challenge.
James Horner spoke on film in his own language. He was able to build on the output of those who came before him, yet in his lifetime focused his considerable ability and energy on taking the art form to a new level. The purpose of a book dedicated to his legacy must be to translate and interpret his language so that everyone can learn its meaning, form an understanding of his goals and grasp the magnitude of what he accomplished.
We are all aware of the endless negative commentary on James Horner by detractors who consistently misjudge and misread his intentions. For this reason alone I consider the proposed book to be essential and certain to be a labour of love for those inspired to write it. Publication of such a book is an opportunity to set the record straight, as the cliché has it, but more than that, it will be welcomed by those who value musical excellence, and now that he is no longer with us, it has the potential to enhance and secure James Horner’s reputation for all time.