What song is in this Ski Sunday video?

The Song in the Ski Sunday Video: “Pop Looks Bach” by Sam Fonteyn

Introduction

Ski Sunday, a popular BBC television show that has been airing since 1978, is known for its captivating theme tune. Viewers often wonder about the song featured in the Ski Sunday video and its composer. In this article, we will delve into the details of the iconic song and shed light on its origins.

The Creation of Ski Sunday

Ski Sunday was created as a weekly Sunday afternoon program following the success of the BBC’s Winter Olympics coverage in 1976. Since then, it has become a beloved show among winter sports enthusiasts and television viewers.

The Theme Tune: “Pop Looks Bach”

The theme tune for Ski Sunday, titled “Pop Looks Bach,” was carefully selected from a library of existing music. The composition was created by Sam Fonteyn, an English composer-pianist, in 1970. Fonteyn, born in Birmingham, was renowned for his contributions to music libraries, and “Pop Looks Bach” was one of his notable pieces.

Inspiration and Composition

“Pop Looks Bach” is a contemporary ditty featuring strings, hammond organ, brass, and percussion. While it draws inspiration from Johann Sebastian Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D minor, BWV 565, it takes a more lighthearted and modern approach. The piece’s title refers to its loose connection to Bach’s famous composition, which is typically associated with vampires and opera phantoms rather than downhill skiers.

The Perfect Match: Music and Skiing

The choice of “Pop Looks Bach” as the theme tune for Ski Sunday was no accident. The song’s energetic and dynamic qualities perfectly capture the exhilarating experience of skiing. The downward motion of the strings and organ, complemented by the timpani, brass, and flute, creates a sense of speed and excitement that resonates with viewers.

Longevity and Evolution

“Pop Looks Bach” has remained the theme tune for Ski Sunday since its first broadcast. It has become an integral part of the show’s identity and has been enjoyed by audiences for decades. Additionally, the song was also used as the main music for the BBC’s Winter Olympics coverage until 2006.

Over time, the interpretation of the theme tune has remained faithful to the original composition. However, to infuse a contemporary touch, some 21st-century beats have been added to the background. This evolution preserves the timeless charm of “Pop Looks Bach” while keeping it fresh and relevant for modern audiences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Ski Sunday video features the iconic song “Pop Looks Bach” composed by Sam Fonteyn. Its lively and captivating melody perfectly complements the thrilling nature of winter sports. Whether you are a skiing enthusiast or a fan of the show, “Pop Looks Bach” continues to enchant audiences with its enduring appeal.

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about the Song in the Ski Sunday Video

What is the name of the song in the Ski Sunday video?

The song featured in the Ski Sunday video is called “Pop Looks Bach.”

Who composed the song for Ski Sunday?



The song “Pop Looks Bach” was composed by Sam Fonteyn, an English composer-pianist.

When was the song “Pop Looks Bach” composed?

“Pop Looks Bach” was composed by Sam Fonteyn in 1970.

What is the style of the song “Pop Looks Bach”?

The song “Pop Looks Bach” is a contemporary ditty featuring strings, hammond organ, brass, and percussion. It draws inspiration from Johann Sebastian Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D minor, BWV 565, but takes a more lighthearted and modern approach.

How does the song capture the essence of skiing in Ski Sunday?

The song “Pop Looks Bach” has a great momentum and captures the feeling of racing downhill or going through a slalom. The downward motion of the strings and organ, accompanied by timpani, brass, and flute, creates a sense of speed and excitement that aligns with the thrilling nature of skiing.

Has the song changed since the first broadcast of Ski Sunday?



No, the song “Pop Looks Bach” has remained the theme tune for Ski Sunday since its first broadcast. However, to give it a contemporary touch, some 21st-century beats have been added to the background in recent years.

Was “Pop Looks Bach” used in other television shows or programs?

Yes, “Pop Looks Bach” was composed for music libraries, and as a result, it has been licensed and used in various shows over the years. It has notably appeared in popular animated shows like Spongebob Squarepants and the American television show The World Tomorrow.

When was “Pop Looks Bach” used as the main music for the BBC’s Winter Olympics coverage?

“Pop Looks Bach” served as the main music for the BBC’s Winter Olympics coverage until 2006. It has been associated with the excitement and spirit of winter sports during the Olympic broadcasts.