The new EPCOT entrance music sparked some…discussion when it debuted a few days ago. Instead of putting together an original score for the entrance music, Disney selected an arrangement of pre-existing songs that carried a generic, triumphant, uplifting theme, but failed to reach the iconic arrangement of years past in many guests opinion.
Now, Disney Imagineer Zach Riddley has taken to social media to provide a bit more context on how Disney selected the EPCOT entrance music songs.
EPCOT has a unique musical voice – a legacy and future with a sound all its own. As we shared with D23 in 2019, our team has been working on new music and a parkwide soundscape informing new shows, attractions and environments we are bringing to life in this transformation to live alongside the classic songs and themes EPCOT is known for. This week we released a new EPCOT main entrance soundtrack with new tracks featuring bold themes with inspiring arrangements that set the stage for exploration, celebration and discovery.
Associate Music Producer Leeann Hsueh drew inspiration from the breathtaking views and aspirational architecture of the original EPCOT when selecting the new soundtrack for this enhanced space. Hsueh notes “most of the music selections feature a hybrid orchestra – a combination of live musicians and electronic elements to bring a freshness to the music program.” This soundtrack captures our mission with this park and our work – that our shared future is bright and rich when we connect and celebrate what makes us …. Us.
For a list of the songs that comprise the EPCOT entrance music loop, check out our earlier post.
As always, keep checking back with us here at BlogMickey.com as we continue to bring you the latest news, photos, and info from around the Disney Parks!