July 2025
Dumbworld with Ulster University Presents…
The NI FILM SCORING SUMMER SCHOOL
which is specifically designed for early-career musicians and composers looking to develop their music composition and technology skills in writing music for screen (film, games, TV, etc).
The week consists of workshops, talks, and tutorials that focus on the professional tools and approaches needed to create an original score. This course will be delivered by some of the most established and high-profile professional names working in film scoring, contemporary music, and music production, including Ivor Novello Award-winning composers David Holmes (Killing Eve [BBC, 2018-2022]) and Brian Irvine (The Woman in the Wall [BBC, 2023]). Talks will also feature advice and support from an array of experienced professionals about building a career as a film music composer.
The course covers both the aesthetic and creative aspects of writing for screen as well as technical elements, software, and score preparation methodologies. It further offers the chance to connect with a network of Directors, Producers, and Sound Designers. It is a unique opportunity to experience the real-life process of composing an original score for screen.
As well as learning a huge amount of information from experienced professionals, participants will also come away with a fully mixed and mastered copy of their recorded score. Digital scoring will be strongly encouraged and supported while engaging in composing for a live ensemble will be optional.
Read about our Mentors and Visiting Professionals: here.
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Each participant will
- Be mentored by our internationally acclaimed faculty and visiting industry professionals
- Compose an original score for a specific segment of film
- Receive copyright permission to use in their portfolio
- Receive a mixed and mastered recording of their composition
The course is a co-production between the contemporary production company Dumbworld and Ulster University and takes place in the UU Music Department, Foyle Arts Building in Derry/Londonderry.
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Schedule Overview
DAY 1
- Welcome & Introduction
- Creative & Technical Analysis
- Instrumentation Tutorial
- Scoring for Screen: Notation – Writing with timecode – Synchronisation of music and visual
DAY 2
- From conception to composition: Creating and Structuring a score
- Orchestration as a creative tool: Texture, Timbre, and extended performance techniques
- Individual mentoring sessions with Visiting Industry Professional
DAY 3
- Discussion and development of ideas
- Sampling technologies
- Individual mentoring sessions with Visiting Industry Professionals
DAY 4
- Individual mentoring sessions: Directions for completing the score
- The Film Value Chain: Creative relations in the Film-Making Process
- Individual mentoring sessions with Visiting Industry Professional
DAY 5
- Finalising the score and troubleshooting
- Score Delivery
DAY 6
- Recording of the Film Scores with Hard Rain Soloist Ensemble
- Feedback session and round-up of the week
POST DAY 6
- Mastering sessions with individual composers
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Fee: £350.00
The fee does not include Accommodation but does include Lunch.
There will be campus accommodation available starting from £40 p/night. More details will be supplied if the application is successful.
We acknowledge that financial constraints can pose challenges to accessing educational opportunities. While we are actively seeking funding to offer bursaries for eligible students who require financial assistance to attend our course, we cannot guarantee availability. We encourage all interested applicants to consider this aspect when applying. There will be an opportunity in the application process to indicate if financial support would be beneficial for you.
Criteria
Age: This course is available to anyone over the age of 18.
Musical Proficiency: While no formal qualifications are required, applicants should possess some music theory and composition skills. This could be demonstrated through previous training, experience, or portfolio submissions.
Creativity and Innovation: We seek applicants who are creative thinkers and willing to push the boundaries of traditional scoring techniques. Applicants should demonstrate an ability to think innovatively and experiment with new ideas.
Collaborative Spirit: The ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment is essential. Applicants should demonstrate strong communication skills and a willingness to collaborate with fellow students, and industry professionals.
Knowledge of Composition and Software: Applicants should have some knowledge of at least one music composition software package such as Sibelius, Finale, Logic, Protools, etc.
Professional Aspirations: While prior experience in film scoring is not required, applicants should have a clear interest in pursuing a career in the field of music composition for film, television, or other visual media.
Commitment to Attendance: Applicants must commit to the full duration of the summer school program and actively participate in all scheduled activities, workshops, and collaborative projects.
Applications Closed
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For General Enquires or Partnerships please email [email protected]
