This 1976 family drama took up the cudgel to bring 'realistic' stories to television. Topical issues were the order of the day, and viewers responded; it lasted five seasons. The music was by John Rubinstein, one of the original cast of the show. His first theme was at the time, and still is, one of the most low-key opening themes for any tv show. Wikipedia highlights the 'minor orchestral contingents' in the music, but the theme was in A major, and it had no more than the usual number of passing minor-mode moments. The plaintive woodwind, and the solo cello, are what give the theme a somber (some would say depressing) feel. In any case theme one was soon replaced by theme two (also by Rubinstein) which was livelier and more inviting to listeners.