A Talk with James Newton Howard

This 1996 seminar, held at the Director’s Guild Of America in Hollywood, features James Newton Howard. He begins the evening by giving a sketch of how he found his way into film scoring, starting out as a classical pianist, playing in garage bands, and eventually getting a break playing and arranging music for Elton John. As the evening progresses, he responds to questions from the audience. He speaks about working with orchestrators, being close to getting fired, studying and learning from mentors, his reaction to the first time he was ever asked to rewrite a cue, and his views on spotting sessions.

Mr. Howard’s scores include “Snow Falling on Cedars” (1999), “The Sixth Sense” (1999), “Runaway Bride” (1999), “A Perfect Murder” (1998), “My Best Friend`s Wedding” (1997), “Grand Canyon” (1991), “The Prince Of Tides” (1991) and “Pretty Woman” (1986). He received Oscar nominations for “My Best Friend`s Wedding” (Original Musical or Comedy Score), “One Fine Day” (Original Song), “Junior” (Original Song), “The Fugitive” (Original Score) and “The Prince Of Tides” (Original Score).

Audio from this seminar is available for members below: