Jerry versus John

[publicist 4,484]

Complicated music isn't in big demand any more??? More like composers aren't daring and brave any more.

With a few exceptions, say Goldenthal, sometimes Giacchino.

Judging from music perception of the general public, i just don't see it.

The are exceptions (Matrix I, Final Fantasy), but on the whole i guess it's ok to say that the more edgy and challenging stuff is a lot faster in the rejection-basket, so obviously it is not in big demand.

[Morn 7]

Yes but composer who lower their standards to match what the current demand is, I have zero respect for. Herrmann says it best.

"I don't like film composers who go well this would be a great idea but the audience is too stupid so i'll debase the music to their level, and if the director complains a composer with standards should walk away from it and I don't like composers who will settle for what is below their standard to make a buck" -Bernard Herrmann

"If somebody told me what to write i'd say get somebody else, i'm a composer it's my profession I don't need some half witt director telling me what to write." - Bernard Herrmann

You see the problem has got nothing to do with what the demand is. The problem is that we lack composers with the balls to have artistic integrity. And that in a nutshell is the problem with film music today.

[David Coscina 3]

Yes but composer who lower their standards to match what the current demand is, I have zero respect for. Herrmann says it best.

"I don't like film composers who go well this would be a great idea but the audience is too stupid so i'll debase the music to their level, and if the director complains a composer with standards should walk away from it and I don't like composers who will settle for what is below their standard to make a buck" -Bernard Herrmann

"If somebody told me what to write i'd say get somebody else, i'm a composer it's my profession I don't need some half witt director telling me what to write." - Bernard Herrmann

You see the problem has got nothing to do with what the demand is. The problem is that we lack composers with the balls to have artistic integrity. And that in a nutshell is the problem with film music today.

I actually think it's more they lack the over all skills combined with not so much backbone and the fact that there is so much competition to get jobs in Hollywood these days. Where once you had to have SOME musical skills to be able to compose orchestral music for film, now anyone with a decent Pro Tools or Logic rig can get the job done with meandering soundscapes that lack melodic and harmonic development. Some may say that's not important but music that mirrors the development of the narrative IS ultimately more effective than simple droning or atmosphere pads that add NOTHING to the film whatsoever.

yes, some composers can write for brass in exciting ways but dumb down their approach to pay the bills. But I would largely say that most popular composers working today (no names but you know who I'm talking about) simply do not know enough about orchestration to get the most out of the brass section...or wind section...or any other section. Pity but true.

p.s. Things like Don Davis' MATRIX series are an aberration not the norm. Look at how polarized Jonny Greenwood's score was among film goers. People either loved it or hated it vehemently. I say good going to him for at least provoking a strong response. And the music challenged the audience, whether in a good way or bad way.