The Piano

by Michael Nyman

Michael Nyman’s soundtrack for The Piano is without a doubt one of the greatest soundtracks ever composed—and one that has been a part of my life for decades. Back in the late ’90s, I played it endlessly on cassette. It was my companion on many melancholic evenings during my youth, and even today, its emotional depth and timeless beauty continue to captivate me.

The soundtrack manages to create an incredible intensity with such minimalistic means. The melodies, carried by the iconic piano, exude a mix of melancholy, longing, and strength that touches you to your core. Pieces like The Heart Asks Pleasure First are so poignant they feel almost tangible—like music that speaks directly to your soul.

I still vividly remember one particular moment listening to this soundtrack in my shared flat. I was sitting on a tiled stove, the cassette playing softly in the background, a blanket beneath me, a dim lamp casting a faint glow, and a book in my hands. It was a moment of complete stillness and focus, where the music filled every corner of the room and seemed to reach into my very being. I loved it.

Even now, so many years later, this soundtrack has lost none of its magic. Nyman creates an entire world with every note—a world full of emotion and imagery. This is music that not only complements the film but stands on its own, with such power and expression that it strikes straight at the heart. The Piano is more than just a soundtrack—it’s a masterpiece that invites you to rediscover its beauty every time you listen.