John Barry's magnificent main theme from the Oscar-winning 1986 film is one Barry's most beautiful and famous creations. It demonstrates his wonderful use of strings and brass to create a memorable piece that enhances the impact of the film.

During his national service with the British Army in Cyprus, Barry began performing after learning to play the trumpet. He later developed an interest in composing and arranging music, making his début for television in 1958. He came to the notice of the makers of the first James Bond film Dr. No. 

Barry received five Academy Awards: two for Born Free and one each for The Lion in Winter (also winning the first BAFTA Award for Best Film Music), Dances with Wolves and Out of Africa (both of which also won him Grammy Awards).

Surrey Brass plays an arrangement of the theme by Jonathan Spencer.