Greetings,

Something I’ve never touched on is how important music is in creating art. Because you never see it in still images, although you might hear it in the background of the BTS videos.

It isn’t essential in the way that Star Wars needs that score even to work at all. In that case, it is pivotal to making any movie exciting and sets the mood and excitement.

For most people, total silence makes it harder to think creatively. That may not be true for logical thinking. Working on a spreadsheet with Led Zeplin screaming at you is probably not promoting productive thought.

Any time I’m trying to be creative, I have music going. And what I choose to listen to often reflects on what I’m doing. Currently, “She’s a maniac” from Flash Dance is playing. Movie and TV music is always best during a shoot because there are usually climatic, romantic, or just rambling action passages. Some have a beat, and some are more for the melody.

It all helps get the creativity flowing. I have sound piped from the makeup room to the office and the studio, so the crew never has any dead space, and it promotes continuity. Once the ‘flow’ kicks in, usually about 30 minutes into a shoot, you don’t want to interrupt it until the shoot is finished.

I often ask the model what kind of music they want to hear. And unless they say rap or country, I’ll play what they want. I’ve learned about many artists I now enjoy listening to because they exposed me to them. What do I play if they said rap or country, you may ask? The Beatles. They could use some exposure to real music. (grin). I expect I remind them of their grandpa, so it makes sense. Sometimes I’m surprised when they sing along; good upbringing.

The music doesn’t end after a shoot. When editing, it is just as essential to keep the juices of the mind stirred up with some tunes with a mood and a beat.

Be safe over the coming holidays. Family gatherings and shopping can be a significant exposure to the crud in the air. Stay healthy. It is the most valuable thing you have. And, you know, I don’t want to lose subscribers.

Stay curious, my friends!

Dave

And if you’d like to give me any feedback on these Museletters, feel free! I love to hear from you all! - Contact form