The music of Battlestar Galactica makes use of the technique called “leitmotif”. A leitmotif is a phrase or melodic cell that signifies a character, place, plot element, mood, idea, relationship or other specific part of the story. It is commonly used in modern film scoring as a device to mentally anchor certain parts of a film to the soundtrack. Of chief importance for a leitmotif is that it must be recognizable enough for a listener to latch onto while being flexible enough to undergo variation and development. However, the development of leitmotifs was not part of the composers’ original plan: “For a show that set out to avoid ‘themes,’ Battlestar Galactica has certainly ended up with quite a few.” — Bear McCreary
There was a brief break as the stage was set for the main performance. The back of the stage was lined with enormous taiko drums and Asian gongs. In addition, the band included traditional drums, keyboards and a baby grand piano. In total, there were roughly fifteen members of the complete ensemble playing a wide range of instruments including winds, percussion and strings and more exotic instruments such as bagpipes. Several of the players from BrEndAn’s Band also performed as part of the Battlestar Galactica Orchestra, including Brendan McCreary and vocalist Raya Yarbrough.
Once the stage was set, Grace Park returned and introduced a special guest. Edward James Olmos, who portrayed Admiral William Adama on “Battlestar Galactica,” joined Park onstage to roars from the crowd. Olmos was not scheduled to appear at Saturday’s performance, having hosted the concert on Thursday and Friday, so his appearance was a real treat for fans. Also in the audience was Tahmoh Penikett, who Olmost welcomed the stage, again to the delight of the audience.