GaryCooper, that's some fine line-up of movie soundtracks!
My music tastes are first and foremost "classical" concert music. So I've always had a particular appreciation for Tiomkin's touch of the operatic in almost all his scores. Even when you would think it out place for the movie.
Sometimes I like Goldsmith and sometimes I find him just ok; but the "Sand Pebbles" really nails it for the unrelentingly sad tone of the picture.
And my highest pedestal spot is for Elmer Bernstein -- a master who could work in any genre. But there is many a time when I just pull up the opening title credits music for "Magnificent Seven" and sit still with my eyes closed while it all washes over me. Then about the fourth or fifth time in a row, I realize the lawn needs to be mowed or something and I have to go back to reality.
Thanks for reminding me of what is often my most favorite part of a movie -- the music.