On October 28, 2009, Women In Film hosted a Speaker Series Panel focusing on music and songwriting in film and television. The panel featured music duo Wendy Melvoin and Lisa Coleman (AKA Wendy & Lisa), film composer Helene Muddiman, singer-songwriter Lisbeth Scott, and composer (and WIF member) Hillary Thomas. Moderating the panel was singer-songwriter (and WIF board member) Lisa Gewirtz.
The panelists discussed their backgrounds and influences and gave tips on how to break into the industry. Lisbeth, who releases 2 new albums this fall, encouraged attendees to keep a strong work ethic. Helene reminded everyone that forming and maintaining strong networks is essential for women in the industry. Hillary advised young composers, “Don’t judge your own music, and always have an arsenal of themes in your back pocket!” When asked about the secrets of (female) success, Wendy and Lisa suggested, “Be prepared, know your lines, believe in yourself, and never give up.”
Hillary recently wrote the score for the award-winning film “On Great White Wings” and has a number of upcoming projects secured for the future. Grammy-winners Wendy and Lisa are currently scoring for NBC and Showtime. Lisbeth Scott is donating proceeds from her new albums, “Hope is a Thing” and “Peace On Earth” to the organization Education Through Music. (www.hopeisathing.com) Helene Muddiman made her first national feature film release on October 30th for her film, “Skin”.The event was also covered by Nina Grenningloh of grenniMedia. To visit her blog article, including photo footage, CLICK HERE. For more information about the panelists and links to their websites, CLICK HERE.
