Howard Shore's Shire theme is a musical composition that represents the peaceful, idyllic land of the Shire and its residents, the hobbits. The theme is characterized by a bouncy, happy, dance-like melody that is almost comical in nature, and it reflects the lighthearted and carefree spirit of the hobbits.

The composition is primarily played on two instruments: a wooden folk flute and a fiddle. The use of these instruments creates a rustic, pastoral atmosphere that is typical of the Shire. The flute, in particular, is associated with the hobbits and their love of nature, while the fiddle adds a lively, energetic quality to the music.

The Shire theme first appears in The Lord of the Rings during the opening scenes of the movie, which introduce the hobbits and their way of life. The music creates a sense of warmth and familiarity, drawing the viewer into the world of the hobbits and inviting them to share in their joy.

Throughout the movie, the Shire theme is used to underscore scenes that take place in the Shire or involve hobbits. It is played during moments of lightheartedness, such as when Frodo and Sam are cooking a meal or when the hobbits are dancing at the Green Dragon Inn. The music also has a more poignant quality, however, and is used to evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing, particularly when Frodo and his companions are forced to leave the Shire behind and embark on their perilous journey.

Listen to the Shire Theme:

Notice that the melody's first 7 notes begin exactly the same as the old hymn "This is My Father's World."

Here are the lyrics of the first two verses of "This is My Father's World:"

This is my Father's world,
And to my listening ears
All nature sings, and round me rings
The music of the spheres.
This is my Father's world:
I rest me in the thought
Of rocks and trees, of skies and seas;
His hand the wonders wrought.

This is my Father's world,
The birds their carols raise,
The morning light, the lily white,
Declare their maker's praise.
This is my Father's world,
He shines in all that's fair;
In the rustling grass I hear Him pass;
He speaks to me everywhere.

Did Shore include this tune on purpose? What do you think? Do the words of the hymn relate to the Shire?

Listen to "This is My Father's World:"