Mr. Holland's Opus [Final Scene]

This is the ending scene from Mr. Holland's Opus when Mr. Holland is given a surprise good-bye celebration and is asked to play his "opus".
The name of the composition is "The American Symphony (Mr. Holland's Opus)" - by Michael Kamen

[@mewzishun1]

I was in band throughout Jr High and High School. It saved my life! Band gave me a place and self confidence. Because of those classes, I learned to read music, be part of an ensemble, and made friends I still talk to regularly to this day (25 years later)! Music (drumming) became a part of my identity gave me purpose. All of the arts are just as important as any academic course work. To quote from Mr Holland’s Opus: “Well, I guess you can cut from the arts as much as you want... Sooner or later, these kids aren’t going to have anything to read or write about.” Keep the arts thriving. Our children need it.

[@markgamble2094]

This movie was my father. He was a high school music teacher for 30 years from 1954-1983 and developed many of the music programs that continue today at his school. David Paul Kirkpatrick was from our town and he became president of Disney Studios. In a recent interview he said that Richard Dreyfuss' character was based on my father, Roland Gamble. He was a talented musician having played in the Akron Symphony orchestra. He could play virtually any instrument and was a wonderful vocalist. His college degrees were in performance and composition but he became a teacher. He began studying for his PhD but decided his goal was to teach children so he never really achieved what he had originally intended. Several of his students went on to professional careers. He was loved and respected by so many and people still tell me that he had such an influence on them or their children as more than just a teacher. He passed away in 1995, the same year this came out. I and the rest of my family could not go to see this movie. It was too close to home. Little did we know until just recently that he had also inspired one of his students who went on to create movies, yet still remembered the influence of Mr. Gamble on him, his school and his community, and what a difference one teacher can make.

[@FoolOverride]

This is really epic. Does this mean that the son in the movie is based on you? How accurate is the movie to the real events?

[@harryricochet8134]

It's difficult to reconcile that most deserved tribute with the direction Disney has now taken in regard to issues of child safety and the fundamental, historically proven principle of presenting every single child intact upon the threshold of their adulthood. Blessings to you and your late great father.

[@skittlepumpkin4813]

This scene hits me right in the feels every time...

[@eddyjohnson8344]

THIS MOVIE IS THE FINAL STRAW BEFORE, AT THE AGE OF 50, I WENT BACK TO COLLEGE AND GOT MY TEACHING DEGREE. IT WAS THE BEST DECISION OF MY LIFE AND IF I COULD CLAIM TO TOUCH 1/3 THE LIVES THIS TEACHER THAT IS PORTRAYED IS TO HAVE TOUCHED, I WILL BE A HAPPY MAN.

[@mosescordovero6060]

it was partly why I decided to become a teacher, then proceeded to waste 7 years of my life trying to become an effective one. i failed

[@marshallmcdowell3369]

We can only wish to live such a fulfilling life. He touched many lives. Music teachers are giving youth a way of expressing themselves in a constructive way. There needs to be more people like this man in the world today

[@francistaxi]

The most beautiful thing about this scene is that, once they get in the auditorium, Mr. Holland has no more lines. He doesn't have to say anything; the symphony and the testimonials of his former students say everything he wants to. It's a powerful thing, for an artist to realize a dream. May we all do the same.

[@drdave5150]

This is the ONLY movie that makes me cry. There is one shot where they pan in on Mr. Holland and every time I see my own father looking back at me...Miss you pop! Isaac Dow Poling (1923-1994)

[@beckylipps7286]

My God! My absolute favorite movie of my life! I always cry when I watch this part! Great acting, as always from me. Dreyfuss.

[@Honey-bb9ju]

Mr Dreyfuss, you sir are a mighty fine actor,and this movie makes me cry every single time I watch it , you are pure magic xx

[@travisking9321]

Worthy of a standing ovation... Mr. Holland's Opus Michael Kamen thank you...

[@Lissical]

Watching him conduct the orchestra for one last time always makes me cry. Such an incredible movie.

[@McKaysSlave]

This is the only movie I've ever seen my father cry at, and truthfully it makes me tear up a bit as well. Truly, this is a piece of cinematographic mastery. A true classic that everyone should see at least once in their lives.

[@mattmccann8805]

Schmaltzy, ridiculous, absurd, unrealistic, one of my favourite films and makes me cry like a baby every single time. ".....I think he's achieved a success far beyond riches and fame. Look around you. There is not a life in this room that you have not touched, and each one of us is a better person because of you. WE are your symphony Mr Holland, we are the melodies and the notes of your opus and we are the music of your life...."

[@elitestar]

Every Picasso painting is unrealistic. Does that not make them masterpieces?

[@levinmoser4001]

It wasn't really unrealistic. It was written during the time in our country that music and art was getting cut from schools across the country. It was a little corny, but relevant at the time.

[@mosescordovero6060]

mattMcCann has expressed EXACTLY how I feel about that movie, and quoted THE most touching lines from it

[@ergaomnes6221]

INDEED EDUCATION IS GETTIN' FLUSHED DOWN THE TOILET

[@bravaLiz]

Play the sunset. One of the greatest films. Ever.

[@chucktaylor700]

That speech is what we should all say to our friends & loved ones all the time, remember to let them know how special they are & how much they mean to you.

[@MaxLuetgendorff]

This always gets me - I had a teacher like Mr. Holland, his name was Arthur Groß. He also touched countless lifes - with music. Here with singing. I miss him.

[@beckylipps7286]

Every time I watch this I cry! My all time favorite movie!! There was a Mr. Holland in my life in 8th. Grade Choir. A Mr. Cecil Jones, who still ages later, is my all time Hero!❤️

[@marcbarlow8099]

The "Governor's" speech has tremendous depth of feeling and heights of honor. Brava!

[@Icandoitifiwant]

One of the greatest endings to any movie ever filmed, and makes me cry like a baby EVERY time I watch it.

[@Kerri36982]

Love this movie soooo much always makes me cry but in a good way.

[@tlv156]

richard dryfuss's face when gertrude asks him to lead them in his symphony is incredible. amazing performance!!!! if you don't choke up you aren't human. spectacular....

[@kwr0558]

One of the ABSOLUTE GREATEST movie finales EVER !... I would dedicated this to all band directors, chorus directors and symphony directors... may we NEVER lose MUSIC IN OUR SCHOOLS.... It is is so important.

[@lukesherwood8566]

I saw this film twice when it first came out and have watched it many times since. To me this is one of the greatest films ever made.

[@yannispollalis1601]

excellent!!!!!!!! it applies to all teachers...not just music teachers....to all who dedicate themselves in developing others' talents and strengths!!!!!!

[@davexxx5175]

When this film came out, a friend of mine saw it at the cinema during the first days and said to me: "You have to go! It’s so powerful! Sometimes you will laugh, but you will also cry.. a lot! You must go! So I went to see it! For me (and also for my friend) it's one of the best music movies of all time. I remember this final scene very well. Very touching.. you can’t stay emotionless! Totally awesome .. also today! Full of meaning!

[@patriciaarold1270]

I'll have you know that I'm crying now. I cry every time this movie is on, especially when the final scene is shown. I LOVE, LOVE,LOVE THIS MOVIE!!!!!! 🥰😭🥰😭🥰😭

[@Araconox]

Same..and I've watched it a dozen times, at least.

[@kevinbarker4449]

What a wonderful scene and a wonderful movie

[@TheSoftballstar1261]

kevin barker Just like my band director while I was still in high school. He loves all of the students at the school, not just the music students, but EVERYONE!! He has touched the lives of many. I hope to visit my high school soon to see him.

[@fireofenergy]

My high school music teacher got arrested for being too cool with us kids... 1980 She loved the Beatles and told us to put just the right amount of water in the beer bottles, try to keep it in tune :)

[@beckylipps7286]

kevin barker he reminds me of my 8th. Grade choir director seems like 100 years ago. Not in looks but in enthusiasm ! How we loved him! He added so much to my lifetime of music!

[@MisterDoom1]

Mr Tommy Johnson, Glencliff High School, taught me to play the music of my heart. He deserves a farewell like this.

[@LynnHallbrooks]

One of my favorite movies of all time. I always cry at this part. Wonderful music throughout the movie, yet this ties it all together.

[@pbailey232]

One of the best movies and an unbelievably great ending. Bravo to the writer(s)!!!

[@JamieFDalton]

I've watched this film 100 times and only just noticed everyone in the auditorium is singing and clapping along to Louie Louie while waiting for Mr Holland. In the context of the film that's a wonderful touch.

[@Araconox]

Not a hundred times for me, but many. I was in our high school band, having taken up the clarinet at 11 years old. Then ,slowly learned the piano. Playing an instrument- and sticking with it throughout your life is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. And a real gift for others to listen to your eventual ability and musicianship.. Everything you put into it, you will get back-in spades!

[@tlv156]

And then the horns fell silent. At least he made a statement with this wonderful piece. Amazing! Just amazing....

[@boricuabooklover]

Though I come from a very musical family, this movie was my final push to wanting to take band once I reached sixth grade. And I also believe that my band teacher, Mr. Wagner, was very much like Mr. Holland. When my other band teacher (and her lack of patience and realization that not all students learn on the same pace) basically told me that I had either give up band all together or switch to a different instrument, I still remember sitting in that office with him and my mother and the first question he asked me was if I wanted to stay in band and continue playing percussion. Though I never was in All-District Band or first chair, I bettered myself in my section and learned how to play the flute without knowing how to read notes or knowing the proper fingering by ear (though I finally took beginning band for that instrument in 11th grade before switching permanently that same year). I went from being the student who thought I didn't have what it took to play an instrument to pushing myself to be the best that I could be; while at the same time, never remembering to have fun. Thank you so much, Mr. Wagner for giving me the chance when I was continuously pushed down.

[@Locktwiste72]

This scene always makes me cry like a baby. The movie is indeed, an opus.

[@SindromeDeMascotinha]

I've never watched this movie, and I'm crying XD

[@Locktwiste72]

I highly recommend it. It's a generational film, chronicling Mr. Holland's journey from the Vietnam War era to the then-present day of the film, the students ge list to war and time, the lives he influenced, how he came to terms with his son being born deaf (a serious blow go home as he is a passionate music teacher). This film truly us an opus all it's own. And Richard Dreyfuss is one of those few actors who can bring real heart to any story.

[@MrSrhammer1]

Just so everyone knows, there is a Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation. It’s a charity that helps raise money for school band programs to buy new or repair old instruments. If you loved band or orchestra in school, college, or in the community, donate to them so they can help keep music in our schools.

[@iceline22]

A life fulfilled, amd fulfilling all those around you. I dare anyone to watch this movie through and be uninspired...

[@gynandroidhead]

You would lose that dare. I despise the ending of this movie immensely.

[@cooldesigner501]

I went through half of a tissue box watching this. 7:02 makes me teary too. The appreciation for excellent teachers is unfortunately hard to find nowadays.

[@TheSoftballstar1261]

my band director was widely appreciated at my high school as well. he got teacher of the year for the school a couple of years ago. This scene reminds me of my band director. I miss him a lot!!

[@TheSoftballstar1261]

I play the flute.

[@oh_mandy]

Makes me want to get my old flute out and start playing again :) Have always loved this movie!

[@sheilasmoak2806]

and i agree with your dedication!!!!!!!!! this ending with forever live in all of us who love music!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@bjc12566]

One of the most unrated movie. A must see!!!

[@hilarylewis7785]

Richard thank you for a memorable performance. We have lost so many of our great actors. If I had to compose a list of my favorites you would be at the top. Please continue with your wonderful work.

[@i2pjd6hRw5P]

That last note really gets me.

[@Jourell1]

The adult Cole was played by Anthony Natale, a Canadian actor who is hearing impaired. He's also a ASL teacher and motivational speaker.

[@RowenaBeauvaire]

This is absolutely one of my favorite movies of all time. I hated that they cut the music program. You could clearly see the look of pure joy on his face when he finally got to do his own Symphony. Music was his life. The end makes me cry every time.

[@KarmaCroft]

without a doubt the BEST part of the film!

[@Priaposable]

Thank you for remembering at this wonderful finish of a great movie...!

[@TheSoftballstar1261]

I'm proud to call myself a musician.

[@rowebil00]

Thanks! My one girl friend played it at her marching band show and I loved it. Unfortunate, we don't talk - she played me and led me on, but I still love the music!

[@singin8324]

mr dreyfuss was robbed of the oscar for this movie instead it went to nicholas cage for a piss poor performance for leaving las vegas i havent watched the oscars since then nor will i ever again mr dreyfuss we all know who the best actor was.

[@scottab140]

Gary Burton Pain and suffering is hard to portray on the movie screen.

[@ilovebrandnewcarpets]

I mean Cage was good in that, but let's be real this was the best performance.

[@mosescordovero6060]

sinGin is 100% correct

[@williamperkins9349]

Two teachers had a profound impact on my life. Eugene Ursprung at West Jr. and Ralph McClain at Alton High.

[@TheSoftballstar1261]

He is still there, I graduated from high school in 2013.

[@kingpi731]

this is, this is a masterpiece, a masterpiece like no other, thank you

[@daniiga]

Such a Beautiful movie.

[@barbarabaker4017]

RIP Glenn Headly, you will be missed

[@lindalds]

reminds me of two very good band directors; mine, and my daughter's. Elmore Beale and Jeff Harriman, to you.

[@margaretsch]

The unrealistic quality of the playing is called POETIC license. Viewers of the movie will naturally understand that it is exaggerated but we still get the point and it is beautifully done.

[@DonB.-Mulefivefive]

Hope...faith, and the sucess of acheiving a goal. It's IN all of you. Live your dream. Do not allow minor set backs or disappointments to stifle you. Pay no heed to the ones who tell you , you can't when you know you can. and WILL. You're the ones coming in behind us to take our places and lead,and from what I have seen and heard and witnessed, you'll do it. I know you will.....each and every one of you. Because you can. This is by far the most inspirational movie thats been made for some time. Thanks for posting.

[@TheSoftballstar1261]

Don B Thanks Don, what a great message you wrote. As long as you have your mind and heart set to a goal, you can achieve that goal and more.

[@DonB.-Mulefivefive]

Julia Cooper Ms. Cooper, it is indeed a very warming and once again, timely pleasure I have of thanking you, the person, who as I understand it, is doing quite well . That's just a guess mind you . Keep reaching for the stars.

[@kathybabcock6189]

This is a movie I can watch over an over again .I love it ty for making it possible for me to injoy

[@regannedaigle3320]

I was first introduced to this scene by my old band director, Mr. Chris Morgan. This man has taught me so many things that I cannot count them all. I wish you the best of luck Mr. Morgan. You are amazing and I know that you touched my life and so many others as well. I will always watch this scene because of you. And always remember, pink pajamas with penguin on the bottom.

[@rubychew6875]

Art and music programs are very important. It helps kids to relax and find themselves.

[@capismama2922]

Maybe I'm nuts, but I honestly think "The American Symphony" is an amazing piece of music.

[@neutralemporerkatuclass1ra832]

I've seen this movie many times before and just becuase of this last scene, it secured 7th in my top ten favorite movies

[@gerrit1263]

Richard Dreyfuss is one of the best I love him in this

[@turcoloco57]

Chills every time....

[@jonahfalcon1970]

It's a pity that it's an edited version of the opus. The full American Symphony is far better than what is in the film.

[@marienicole8577]

This movie was released when I was in the 8th grade. I was a student who was living the life of a high school performer in choir

[@Camry23]

This movie is a breath of fresh air with all the violence and glorifications of sex they put out today in movies and TV. Great story, well acted, with substance. You can really take something out of this.

[@rustyoilburner]

Great movie

[@nathanaelstasinski9855]

You should have included the ending credits. I just love how the final scene shows Mr. Holland standing triumphantly and then it closes with "Coles' Song. The song at the credit roll really makes his final moment on stage with everybody cheering.

[@dawnmorin]

Just do what I do, imagine that he went on to promote his music and became an actual conductor, music writer or atleast teach college. It gets me through the sad retirement idea.

[@farbenhauskecks]

I hope to have to share this same experience this same thing in life.

[@jeannieharmon628]

reminds me of my band director! influenced so very many of us!

[@donnajones9761]

Thoes horns are outstanding reall.

[@Araconox]

Now I'm really bawling...

[@masakikun]

great movie!!!

[@squirrelygirl816]

Beautiful in every way!

[@Kodanikage]

Serious tear jerker

[@kendallburks]

the last chord is the exact same as the last chord in "A Day in The Life". Nice touch by whoever was in charge of that one.

[@liquidationhaircarecom443]

6:10 such a small gesture can show so much love

[@boci122]

Fin love this movie to pieces...the ending always gives my goosebumps goosebumps.

[@rowebil00]

What is the song at 0:29? It's just the chorus singing.

[@aaronmac1990]

Just finished the video and I'm bawling.

[@robertryanforever]

Just one word. TRIBUTE. Ryan

[@stubs96]

I thought it was the perfect time for the credits, the song was done and Mr. Holland's finishes his conducting.

[@MarkMahoney]

What a way to go for your last day at school

[@miss_midge_]

It always seems funny (odd) to me that Gertrude Lang (clarinet) never thought she'd amount to anything. Then she's the governor.

[@OTAlucard]

makes me blow bubbles every time

[@XAMORA2007]

mr hollan is the best !! thank you

[@germanvelasquez8601]

El cine ha honrado a los maestros con grandes películas, y esta es una de las más grandiosas, donde destaca la manera en que una enseñanza fuera de dogmas sirve para la vida, comparto esta experiencia porque yo lo he vivido ya que soy maestro de música y se lo que se siente.

[@nickolaspeacock3455]

Anyone know what the song is called they're singing when he first comes in the auditorium?

[@punkinpatch1856]

Nickolas Peacock Louie Louis by The Kingsmen

[@nickolaspeacock3455]

@@punkinpatch1856 thank you so very much

[@kimmallable]

This system failed so bad when it took music programs away from children. Every single musician in every orchestra in the world was a child once. Sad......

[@carlosandrediassilva]

It´s the great film, fantastic, i wil show it for my childs

[@honmattpatlee7811]

All Teacher's Legacy Are Generation Of Student They Had Taught Might Include Celebrity And Politician, Which Is Why Education Is Most Important Of Human Life!

[@MST2K2023]

I doubt that all of the students from the past had kept up with their instruments like that. I mean, the recording they used was top notch professionals playing, whereas most of these kids probably dropped their instrument after school. The actual performance at the end would have more likely sounded like the portsmith sinfonia.

[@marcelmiller7551]

RIP Glenne Headly

[@ajd7772]

I loved this scene, always makes me cry. The only thing that doesn't make a lot of sense to me is that Gertrude is the governor of the state, which means it is ultimately her who was responsible for the music budget being cut and the poor state of the economy. Seems to me like maybe Mr. Holland would have phoned her? If music played such a huge part in Gertrude's life, you would think she would make room for it in the budget. Sort of a kind of weird ending, like "I'm the governor, I am here to celebrate Mr. Holland who is being fired due to budget cuts that I, as Governor, made". But anyways, very lovely scene but thought that was odd.

[@importantname]

Imagine if you had spent your entire adult life only teaching the young to be better people - lol.

[@RoyalPain1836]

FrancisTazi, he acctually says "Mr.Stadler?" in the auditorium

[@kenlegg9042]

Sad to hear Glenne Headley ( wife ) in this passed away today

[@chaoflaka8132]

this sounds like something you would only hear in Walt Disney World. :3