International Film Music Conference

Kurt Ader

On December 2 and 3, the Film Commission Nordbaden, in collaboration with MFG Baden-Württemberg, invites you to the International Film Music Conference in Mannheim at the Cinem Quadrat. Held as part of the CinEuro Film Lab, the conference targets film musicians, composers, and filmmakers, offering a platform to discuss current industry topics and technologies.

From composition and AI to sound design and collaborative marketing strategies, the event combines practical workshops, high-profile lectures, and interactive discussions. Attendees will also have ample networking opportunities through the Open Stage, an evening Get-Together, and international speed-dating sessions. The conference coincides with the new music film festival Klang/Bild, further establishing Mannheim as a hub for film music.

The Program

Monday, December 2

• 11:00: Opening
• 11:30: Keynote: Amplifying Creativity or Undermining Artistry? Generative AI in Music – Steffen Holly
• 12:00: Panel Discussion: AI for Composers? All Talk and No Action? – Speakers: Steffen Holly, Tobias Herzog; Moderator: Michael Ackermann
• 13:00: Networking Lunch
• 14:30: Open Stage: Film Music Meets CinEuro
• 16:00: Talk: Opportunities for Collaborative Marketing in Film Music – Arnaud Blanpain
• 17:00: Coffee Break
• 18:00: Screening of Sisters with Transistors
• 20:30: Get-Together

Tuesday, December 3

• 11:00: Workshop: Cinematic Sound Design – Effects, Atmospheres, and Synthesizers – Kurt Ader
• 13:30: Lunch
• 14:30: Networking & Goodbye

Conference Highlights

Keynote: Amplifying Creativity or Undermining Artistry? Generative AI in Music
Speaker: Steffen Holly

Steffen Holly, a pioneer at the intersection of music and technology, will explore the impact of generative AI on the music world. With extensive experience in music software development, his work at the Fraunhofer Institute, and his involvement with MusicTech Germany, Holly examines how AI transforms creative processes. Is AI a tool that amplifies the creative power of composers, or does it pose a threat to artistic authenticity? An expert in metadata, blockchain, and AI, Holly will provide practical insights on how artists can leverage AI as a creative partner. Currently leading business development at Fraunhofer IDMT, Holly combines his expertise as a trained musician, electronics engineer, and innovator to offer a unique perspective.

Panel Discussion: AI for Composers? All Talk and No Action?
Speakers: Steffen Holly, Tobias Herzog
Moderator: Michael Ackermann

This panel explores whether AI lives up to its promises for film composers or if it remains just a buzzword.

• Steffen Holly discusses technical solutions and ethical challenges in integrating AI into the creative process.
• Tobias Herzog, an experienced sound designer and composer, shares his practical experiences with AI tools in film production and explains how they influence artists' workflows.
• Moderator Michael Ackermann, head of the Film Commission Nordbaden, guides the discussion, fostering dialogue between technological advancements and artistic practices.

Talk: Opportunities for Collaborative Marketing in Film Music
Speaker: Arnaud Blanpain

Belgian composer and music producer Arnaud Blanpain shares insights from his work with General Score, a collective of film composers. His platform creates structures that support composers in marketing their work - from creative collaboration to managing contractual and technical requirements. Blanpain will discuss successful projects such as The Other Lamb, The Dreamer: Becoming Karen Blixen, and Die Chaosschwestern und Pinguin Paul. In an open discussion, attendees can exchange ideas on improving marketing strategies and benefit from Blanpain's expertise. With experience as a jazz pianist, composer, and founder of multiple sound studios, Blanpain offers inspiring approaches to fostering creative and business synergies.

Workshop: Cinematic Sound Design – Effects, Atmospheres, and Synthesizers
Speaker: Kurt Ader

Award-winning sound designer Kurt Ader, known for his collaborations with artists like Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater) and Jean Michel Jarre, delivers a hands-on workshop on the art of sound design.

Topics include:

• Creating atmospheric soundscapes and orchestral effects.
• Using synthesizer sounds to enhance emotional scenes.
• Techniques for seamlessly integrating effects and sound textures into film productions.

As an innovator in sound design, Ader has worked with leading companies like KORG, Moog, and Roland. Through his company, KApro Kurt Ader Productions, he has gained global recognition. Participants will leave with practical tools and techniques to elevate their film music production.

The International Film Music Conference is a unique opportunity to deepen your expertise, gain inspiration, and build connections. Whether through lectures, discussions, or networking with international professionals, this event blends creative insights with practical tools.

www.klangbild-festival.de
www.cineuro.eu