Corrie's Iconic Theme Tune Celebrated on BBC

Brass bands and Coronation Street. Two of my favourite things. So I was particularly chuffed when I discovered the two combined on BBC4 on Friday in dramatist and composer Neil Brand’s new three-part documentary ‘The Sound of TV’.

The programme explores how music has impacted our television viewing over the years and what effect that music has had on society and British culture. Some theme songs from big TV shows stay with us for life, either in memory or through repeats, and in a some cases, if the programme has been on air throughout our lives. 

So of course Neil began his musical journey with a trip to the cobbles where a local brass band treats the viewer to a beautiful version of Coronation Street’s famous theme tune, written by composer Eric Spear. There’s even a clip with Eric himself, which I hadn’t seen before, where he tells us how the tune came about.

The programme then moves on to other soaps like Eastenders and even more iconic themes from shows like Dr Who and international hits Game of Thrones and the Simpsons. 

It’s a lovely programme and a must-watch for Corrie fans celebrating 60 years of the show next week.

For UK viewers it’s on BBC iPlayer HERE.

@StevieDawson

WASH THOSE HANDS

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Corrie A-Z: T is for Theme tune

Without a doubt, Coronation Street’s theme tune is one of the most recognised in the whole world. The brassy theme tune, consisting of a cornet, brass band, clarinet and double bass, is reminiscent of the brass bands of the North West of England. It was composed by Eric Spear (1908-1966).

 

The identity of the trumpeter was not public knowledge until 1994 when they were revealed as Ronnie Hunt. Hunt, pictured, said he’d been paid £6 and stated that Spear insisted on having many takes before finding the sound he wanted.

 

In 2010, a new completely re-recorded version of the theme tune. But for me, this is the theme tune of Coronation Street!

 

What do you think of the current theme tune? Did you prefer the old one?

Also see: Loads of different versions of the Coronation Street theme tune

 

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Should Corrie bring back Eric's theme for Betty's funeral?

Eric's theme is the name that fans have given to the original Coronation Street theme, and also the extended theme that was sometimes used for exits such as Karen's exit. It is named after the creator of the original theme, Eric Spear.

I think it would be a great sign of respect to bring back the original theme for that one episode, just to make things feel special. I hope Corrie add a few extra touches to the whole episode, just to give it the feeling that it's not just a tribute to Betty Williams, but also Betty Driver.

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