Can't get over the Mission Impossible theme music? Here is a cool detail you probably missed

From the first in the franchise, to as recent as the latest Mission: Impossible Dead Reckoning Part 1, the Mission Impossible main theme, composed by Lalo Schifrin, is an iconic piece of music that has become synonymous with the genre. Here’s a cool detail you probably didn’t know about the infectious tune.

Argentine-American composer, Lalo Schifrin, was tasked with creating the musical score for  the original Mission Impossible television series from the 60s. 

• Schifrin's background in jazz and his ability to blend different genres of music made him an ideal choice for the project. 
• He wanted to create a theme that captured the excitement, tension, and adventure of the show while also reflecting the sleek and sophisticated nature of espionage.

The main theme is characterized by its catchy and memorable melody, driven by a pulsating rhythm and a distinctive combination of instruments. It opens with a suspenseful and mysterious intro, gradually building up to a climactic point before transitioning into an energetic and dynamic section. 

• The use of brass, percussion, and strings adds depth and intensity to the composition, while the inclusion of a 5/4 time signature gives it an unusual and captivating quality.

Here’s what you probably missed out on…

One of the fascinating parts of the theme is Schifrin’s clever incorporation of Morse code into the composition. 

Morse code is a method of communication that uses a series of long and short signals, represented by dots and dashes, to convey letters and numbers.

In the case of the Mission: Impossible main theme, the two long notes symbolize the Morse code for the letter "M," which consists of two dashes (--). Similarly, the two short notes represent the Morse code for the letter "I," which is represented by two dots (..).

Within the rhythmic structure of the theme, there are two long notes followed by two short notes, which correspond to the Morse code signals for the letters "M" and "I." 

By incorporating these Morse elements into the composition, Schifrin adds a cool layer of symbolism to the theme. It serves as a clever nod to the clandestine and covert nature of the franchise, reinforcing the idea of secret missions, hidden messages, and the thrill of espionage.

The repetition of the long-short-long-short sequence throughout the composition contributes to its distinct and recognizable character, making it instantly identifiable to audiences. The music perfectly complements the high-stakes nature of the movies, creating a thrilling atmosphere that heightens anticipation. 

The theme has shown remarkable versatility and adaptability over the years. It has been rearranged and reinterpreted in various musical styles, ranging from rock to orchestral arrangements. This flexibility has allowed the theme to remain fresh and relevant while maintaining its iconic status.

It has been widely recognised and praised for its ability to create tension and excitement, and it is often associated with scenes involving elaborate heists, daring escapes, and intricate espionage maneuvers. Its distinct rhythm and melody have been imitated and adapted in various contexts, cementing its status as an iconic musical motif.