The Sessions (soundtrack)

Development

Marco Beltrami was chosen by Ben Lewin after the director admired his textural score for The Hurt Locker. Beltrami aimed for music that extended what the picture does to audiences, describing the process of finding a delicate in-between approach as enjoyable. Lewin responded positively to chamber music referencing a Franz Schubert piece used sporadically in the film, and the feel of chamber music worked as a theme for the principal characters' relationship. Beltrami composed a slow-paced classically oriented theme for the second act, employing string quartet, bass, woodwinds, piano, and an unusual sound from rubbing crystal bowl edges processed into a mediative sound. The score was recorded at Beltrami's Pianella Studios in Malibu, California.

Reception

Thomas Glorieux of Maintitles described the score as mostly calm and emotional mood, requiring a certain mood to appreciate, but noted its melodic intentions fulfill listening with ease, calling it Beltrami at his most intimate. James Southall of Movie Wave called it a very nice album showcasing a seldom-heard side of the composer. Todd McCarthy of The Hollywood Reporter felt the score tilted too much toward the precious, providing emotional cues when more restraint would have been welcome.

Peter Debruge of Variety termed it a tenderly understated score. Anthony Kaufman of Screen International called it gentle. Ty Burr of The Boston Globe wrote that the score tries to sneak in and tug heartstrings. Richard Lawson of The Atlantic described it as a lilting, wistful score employed deftly.

Critic David Edelstein called it sprightly, while Shannon Harvey of The West Australian described it as plaintive. Tim Robey of The Daily Telegraph wrote that the affectedly sparse, Arvo Pärt-ish score seems to insist too serenely on the specialness of every moment.