Context:

Lalo Schifrin, renowned for composing the iconic 'Mission: Impossible' theme and over 100 other film and television scores, has died at the age of 93. His work earned him four Grammy Awards and six Oscar nominations, showcasing his versatility across various musical genres. Schifrin's compositions have significantly influenced the entertainment industry, with his 'Mission: Impossible' theme becoming a hallmark of the franchise, despite initial creative tensions with composer John Williams during its adaptation for film. Beyond his cinematic contributions, Schifrin's musical prowess extended to classical music, jazz, and even large-scale events like the World Cup and Pan American Games. His legacy is celebrated through numerous collaborations with legendary musicians and orchestras, reflecting his profound impact on both the classical and popular music landscapes.

Dive Deeper:

• Lalo Schifrin is best known for his composition of the 'Mission: Impossible' theme, which is notable for its unique 5/4 time signature and became a staple of both the original TV series and the subsequent film franchise. The theme was initially not the first choice, but its eventual selection and success were attributed to the freedom Schifrin had while composing without a visual reference.

• Schifrin's musical career was marked by significant achievements, including winning four Grammy Awards and earning six Oscar nominations for his work in film, reflecting his ability to transcend musical genres and mediums. His compositions for films such as 'Cool Hand Luke' and 'The Amityville Horror' demonstrate his diverse talent in scoring for various cinematic themes.

• His contributions to the music world extended beyond film and television, as demonstrated by his composition for the 1990 World Cup's grand finale, performed by the Three Tenors, which became one of the best-selling classical music recordings. Schifrin's involvement with the event highlighted his ability to create music that resonates on a global scale.

• Schifrin's versatility as a musician is further illustrated by his collaborations with jazz legends like Dizzy Gillespie and Count Basie, as well as classical icons such as Zubin Mehta and Mstislav Rostropovich. These partnerships underscored his capacity to blend different musical traditions and create innovative compositions.

• In addition to his work in jazz and classical music, Schifrin contributed to various international cultural events, such as composing the overture for the Pan American Games and the choral symphony 'Songs of the Aztecs' performed in the Nahuatl language at the Teotihuacan pyramids. These works showcased his commitment to cultural preservation and innovation.

• Schifrin's influence on modern composers is evident in stories like that of Michael Giacchino, who sought Schifrin's blessing to adapt the 'Mission: Impossible' theme for later films. Schifrin's encouragement to 'have fun with it' reflects his generous spirit and encouragement of creative reinterpretation of his work.

• Throughout his career, Schifrin maintained a strong connection to his roots, as seen in 'Letters from Argentina,' which combined tango, folk, and classical elements, earning a Latin Grammy nomination. His ability to intertwine his heritage with diverse musical forms highlights the depth of his artistic vision.