Why Frieren's Composer Chose Celtic Sounds Over Generic Fantasy

The music in Frieren Beyond Journey’s End is just as memorable as the story itself. Composer Evan Call recently explained why he moved away from typical fantasy tropes. Instead of relying on a standard orchestral sound, he focused on Celtic inspired instruments to give the anime a distinct emotional edge.

Call wanted the score to feel personal rather than sounding like a generic fantasy soundtrack. To achieve this, he used specific instruments like the hammered dulcimer, tin whistle, and uilleann pipes. These choices helped ground the quiet, reflective moments of the show in a way that feels unique to Frieren.

This thoughtful approach to the soundtrack highlights how much care goes into the production of the series. By prioritizing atmosphere and emotion over loud battle themes, the music helps fans connect more deeply with the characters as they journey through their world.