[GerateWohl]

The entire score of PLANET OF THE APES is basically constructed around a 12-tone melody, that is the prominent melody already introduced in the “Main Title” (prominently on the flutes at around the 50 second mark, then taken up by the oboes at around 1:15) and that is referenced throughout the score. It’s not incidental to the music, but rather the one central unifying element of the score; the melody is central to the film score’s construction.

But the fact that you regard this melody as incidental whereas I see — well, better “hear” — this as the central component in the score shows how subjective musical, and especially melodic, experience of music is. I think it’s one of the great film score melodies. (It’s not a particularly hummable melody, I would grant that… but then, what 12-tone melody is…)

Haven’t listened to this in a long time. Good inspiration to listen again. Thanks for that!

If nothing else, whatever makes a great melody by itself, seems to be a totally subjective, it is whatever sequence of notes one likes

Right. And this is the point where the topic really becomes interesting. These sensitivities for melody seem to be a matter of experience, probably in a formative age. But probably can be trained as well.