In Conversation with Film Music student, Isabel Woodings

Ahead of this year's Electronic & Produced Music: Film Music Showcase, we caught with Film Music student Isabel Woodings, to find out how collaborating with students from other institutions works, the process for writing and scoring film music and dream films they'd love to compose music for. 

What advice would you give someone interested in studying Film Music?

I'd highly recommend studying Film Music at Guildhall, as there's so many opportunities to take part in a variety of projects. It's also a really creative environment, so there's lots of collaboration. We have lectures from film composers, and get to work alongside amazing musicians.

Is there a specific film composer or musician you've really enjoyed working with?

Last term, we had David Buckley visit us at Guildhall. He scored The Sandman, which was a Netflix series, alongside various other things. It was really valuable to get feedback from him and to get to re-score some of the clips.

If you had to pick your dream film to produce music for, what would it be?

That’s quite tricky. There isn’t just one film as I’m really passionate about so many different styles of filmmaking. But, I’d say maybe a Marvel Studios production, an anime series, or even a Pixar film, would all be on the top of my list.

What’s been the best thing about studying Film Music at Guildhall?

I'd say one of the best things about our course is getting to record with the Guildhall Session Orchestra, and last term we also had the opportunity to record with the newly-formed Guildhall Session Singers. Hearing your music played by these incredible musicians is an amazing experience.

What are you most looking forward to about the Film Music Showcase on 6 October?

I'm most looking forward to being inspired by each composer's unique approach to film scoring.

What's it been like collaborating with students from other institutions? How have you worked together with them?

It’s been really lovely collaborating with other creative students. Everybody's working their hardest to create the best film they possibly can, and I feel really driven by that process. When you work with film makers that you can really connect with and the story they’re telling, it really brings out the best of your own work. I’ve had some filmmakers return to me, asking me to score their next film, and in one case a feature film, which is such a great feeling.

What’s the process like for writing music for films?

I start with the preparation stage, where I talk to the director to find out what they're looking for. Then I listen to some reference tracks, and go through the film and break it into smaller sections and mark it. Then I start scoring, whether that is playing the piano or recording myself playing an instrument, or just finding a sound that inspires me.

Do you have any tips for people wanting to write music for film?

I'd say to try not to overthink the process. Sometimes the simplest ideas can work really well with the film. Also try to give yourselves space to reflect on the process, because as a creative individual, forcing ideas isn’t always best and giving yourself that time can really help.

Interested in studying Film Music at Guildhall? Applications for 2024 are now open. Find out more about how to apply.