The Kiner family, consisting of composer Kevin Kiner and his children Deana and Sean, has played a significant role in shaping the Star Wars music of the new generation. They have composed for various Star Wars projects, including Clone Wars, Rebels, Bad Batch, and now Ahsoka. However, composing for the franchise also brings the challenge of finding a balance between creating a new and familiar sound while paying homage to the iconic music created by John Williams. In a recent episode of Ahsoka, the Kiners had to score a brief but important moment featuring the return of Anthony Daniels as C-3PO. Initially, they chose not to include any music, but later realized that the scene felt empty without it. They decided to incorporate elements of John Williams’ iconic Star Wars themes to create a poignant and impactful musical moment.
For the Kiners, composing Star Wars music means avoiding the temptation to imitate John Williams’ style and instead finding their own voice within the established sound of the franchise. They have been refining this approach for years, focusing on capturing the essence of what influenced Williams and incorporating those elements into their compositions. They make use of Williams’ themes sparingly, treating them as a powerful spice in their musical arsenal. This approach allows them to create moments that feel true to the Star Wars universe without overwhelming the audience with nostalgia. The Kiners’ music strikes a delicate balance between evoking a sense of familiarity and introducing a fresh take on the iconic Star Wars sound.
Overall, the Kiners’ experience in composing Star Wars music has been about blending their own style with the legacy of John Williams. They aim to create a unique sonic identity that embodies the essence of Star Wars while incorporating their own musical influences. By utilizing Williams’ themes sparingly and strategically, they are able to add an extra layer of emotional impact to key moments in the storytelling. Their approach is a testament to their artistry and their dedication to crafting music that both honors the past and paves the way for the future of Star Wars music.