Presenting a silent film with solo accompaniment involves the following:
Each venue will naturally have its own requirements and interests, and we will be happy to work with you to develop the arrangement that will be the most convenient and cost-effective. For further information, please contact us at symphony@philipcarli.com or (585) 527-9632.
Even though 90% of silent film
has been lost, there are still wonderful films available in wide variety in
every genre from comedy to noir. Dr. Carli specializes in the improvised
accompaniment of archival films that are not available for pre-viewing, and is
therefore very comfortable accompanying film “to order” for a specific program
a venue may be planning. With his wide experience of films, including print
availability, condition and cost, and his expertise in suiting films to the
audience and occasion, he can also offer any level of guidance that may be
wanted in choosing a film that will look great and bring audiences back for
more. Please contact us for references from satisfied venues!
Films may be available in 35 mm.
or 16 mm. film format and/or on DVD. The rental/rights fees are generally the
same for either 35 mm. or DVD; 16 mm. is generally cheaper, but is not
appropriate for larger houses. Film purists prefer film, but projection
logistics must be taken into consideration. Many silent films cannot be
projected at normal sound speed (24 frames per second). Therefore, showing
these films will require either DVD projection or projectors with variable
speed settings. Small houses may rent 16 mm. projectors with variable speed,
but rental of 35 mm. variable speed controls may be costly. Films made later in
the silent period can run at sound speed, so this problem can be avoided by
choosing one of these films.
Dr. Carli accompanies both on
piano and on organ. If a piano is used it should be large enough for the sound
to fill the house comfortably (a grand is preferable) and should be tuned the
day of the performance. If required, he can bring with him a high quality
portable electronic keyboard for an additional fee. Accompaniments are normally improvised in tandem with the film
screening, and it is not normally necessary to schedule a preview of the film,
though time on the day of performance to try over the piano or preset organ
registrations will be necessary, and a pre-check of the print is advisable at
this time. If a venue strongly prefers an accompaniment based on a cue sheet or
incorporating particular tunes, Dr. Carli has experience with this style and
will be happy to accommodate. However, this may involve extra fees (by prior
agreement) for locating and licensing some of the selections.
There will be separate fees for
the rental of the film and performance of the score. Since ASCAP (and, by
extension, other performance rights organizations) was prevented by antitrust
legislation in the 1940s from representing composers regarding film
accompaniment in theaters, the royalty fee for the score will be included in
the accompaniment package, but will NOT be charged by any performance rights
organization.
Film accompaniments may appeal to different audience segments than other types of concerts, and images from
the films are often available for use in promotion. Dr. Carli can help to locate promotional materials when needed, and also make himself available to meet with press representatives. In some cases press screenings may be arranged.