Explore the Sound Behind the Screen
Have you ever found yourself humming a movie theme long after the credits roll? Or wondered how a few notes of music can instantly transport you into the world of a film? The Maryland Symphony Orchestra invites you to dive into the captivating world of film scoring with MSO Lecture Series: Music in Cinema—a free and engaging event that will take you behind the scenes of Hollywood’s most powerful storytelling tool: music.
Join us on Wednesday, April 16 at 5:30 PM at Hagerstown Community College (Behavioral Sciences & Humanities Building, Room 114) for a dynamic conversation about the creative and collaborative process that shapes the music in your favorite films.
This event brings together a powerhouse panel of industry professionals:
Julie Sessing
Music Producer
(I Am Number Four, Real Steel, The Manchurian Candidate)
Julie brings firsthand experience managing the complex process of pairing music with narrative. She’ll offer insight into what it takes to develop, produce, and refine the sound of a film from script to screen.
Simon Taufique
Film Composer
(The Land of Gold, Imperium, The Interpreters)
Simon will share how he crafts emotional landscapes through music and how composers adapt their creative voice to serve each film’s unique story and mood.
Moderated by Shelly Strong
Former Executive Vice President, DreamWorks
With a storied career in film production, Shelly brings deep knowledge of the business and artistic sides of Hollywood. She’ll guide the conversation through topics like collaboration between directors and composers, music as narrative, and the impact of sound on audience perception.
From iconic themes to subtle scores that shape entire scenes, this discussion promises to offer a fascinating glimpse into the role music plays in filmmaking—and why it’s often the most powerful storytelling device you never see.
This event is free and open to the public, but seating is limited. Please RSVP HERE in advance to ensure your spot.
Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with the creative minds behind the music that moves us. Whether you’re a film buff, music lover, student, or simply curious about how movies come to life, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.