Ramin Djawadi Essentials
Apple Music
When filmmakers want to suggest grand emotional consequences, this German-Iranian composer is one of the composers they turn to. His main-title theme for HBO's Game of Thrones features string ostinatos reminiscent of Philip Glass (and instrumentation that suggests early music ensembles); Djawadi's score for Iron Man shows his facility at subtle composition for the brass section. Whether the scene is haunting or touching in nature, this film scorer knows how to use orchestras and choruses to thrilling effect.