The Art of Filmscoring

Overview

For musically inclined high school students, this program will consist of daily writing assignments, listening sessions, topics for discussion, and daily one on one review sessions. Topics for discussion to include: brief history of film scoring; composing a theme for a character; developing a theme melodically, harmonically, instrumentally, and otherwise; synchronizing music to the film; conducting a scoring session; orchestration techniques; and software used today.

What you should know to take this workshop: basic understanding of treble and bass clef, experience playing an instrument, basic understanding of music theory (scales, key signatures, time signatures). Participants are encouraged to bring in pieces they are currently working on, although it is not required.

Course Objectives

  • Proficient Knowledge of Historical Film Composers and Films  
  • Proficient Knowledge of Film Orchestration techniques and Sample Libraries  
  • Development of Film Scoring Reel 
  • Proficient  Knowledge of the Business and Job Opportunities in Film Scoring  
  • Proficient Knowledge of the Technology of Film Scoring (Logic Pro, Sibelius, etc.)  

Tentative Schedule

  • 9:00-9:15 am- Introduction 
  • 9:15-10:15 am- Film Music History 
  • 10:15-10:30 am- Break 
  • 10:30 am-12:00 pm- Film Music Orchestration 
  • 12:00- 1:00 pm- Lunch  
  • 1:00-2:00 pm- Transition to the Profession 
  • 2:00-3:45 pm- Composing Time 
  • 4:00 pm- Dismissal 

Ages: 13-18

Dates: July 29 – August 2, 2024
9:00 am – 4:00 pm 

Tuition: $467

Location: Mason Fairfax Campus, de Laski Performing Arts Building


Program Faculty

Calvin Evans Jr., Filmscoring Instructor

Calvin Evans, Jr.
Instructor

Read more about Calvin

Calvin Duane Evans Jr. is an honors graduate of Hampton University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education and Master’s Degree in Teaching. During his time at Hampton University, Calvin sharpened his compositional skills as a member of The Hampton University Concert Band, Hampton University Saxophone Section, and Hampton Roads Flute Choir. Upon graduation, he established himself as a highly proficient composer for Visual Media, Symphonic Band, Small Ensemble, and Jazz Band.

Calvin holds a Master’s in Fine Arts Degree with a concentration in Film Music Composition from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts in Winston-Salem, NC. There he composed original music for multiple student films, television pitch ideas, and commercials. Outside of his school work, he composed jazz ensemble literature for the Alamance County Jazz Band and film-like scores for Decode Detroit Escape Rooms.

Calvin is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Music Composition program at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. He was awarded the 2021 Presidential Scholarship at George Mason University which will support him for several years in order to investigate the forgotten history of black film composers. During his free time, Calvin enjoys playing soccer and tennis, watching movies with his dog Aria, and spending time with his wife.


Notes

  • Please note that group classes are subject to cancellation if minimum enrollment is not reached.
  • Be sure to check our policies and procedures regarding registration, withdrawals, refunds, and more for summer group classes.
  • All students will receive a Welcome Letter via email at least 1 week before the class starts with all necessary details.
  • Online registration closes 2 business days before the first class, however space may still be available. Please contact academy@gmu.edu for more information. A $10 late registration fee may apply.
  • For additional information, please contact the Academy at academy@gmu.edu.

The Academy will be closed for Spring Break beginning Monday, March 25 and will re-open on Monday, April 1. We will be operating with limited hours. For any urgent requests, please call 703-993-9889.

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