In this nine-week seminar, discover how film music enhances storytelling, mood, and character. When we talk about film scores, we’re not just talking about background music — we’re talking about the emotional engine of a film. Music defines characters, sets tone and place, builds suspense, and blends jazz, classical, and pop styles into lasting cinematic impressions. We’ll trace the evolution of film scores — beginning with the landmark The Jazz Singer (1927) — and examine how music has become an essential part of the cinematic experience. We’ll explore how composers shape emotion across genres: Drama, Romance, Comedy, Film Noir, Adventure, Action, Science Fiction, Westerns (and Spaghetti Westerns), Foreign Films, and the iconic James Bond franchise. Meet some of the most influential composers — including Max Steiner, Bernard Herrmann, Lionel Newman, Elmer Bernstein, Henry Mancini, John Barry, Nino Rota, Ennio Morricone, Mikis Theodorakis, Michel Legrand, Quincy Jones, John Williams, and others — who helped shape the sound of modern film. Perfect for film and music lovers fascinated by the hidden heartbeat of the screen — where music makes the story unforgettable. Note: Daylight Savings Time ends on November 2, 2025. After that date this class will begin at 3:00 pm EST. No class 10/23 & 10/30; no class week of Thanksgiving.