Masterclasses with Andy Hill

Andy Hill is a distinguished Dean and Director of Studies specializing in music for motion pictures and contemporary media. With a Ph.D. in Film Musicology from the University of South Wales and a B.F.A. in Film from New York University, Hill boasts both academic prowess and practical experience. His teaching career spans institutions such as the Film Scoring Academy of Europe, Pulse College in Dublin, Berklee College of Music in Valencia, and Columbia College Chicago. He has also lectured at esteemed universities worldwide. In the professional realm, Hill has held roles such as Executive Producer and Consultant at Galaxy Studio Group in Belgium, Music Supervisor/Producer in Los Angeles, and Vice President of Music Production at Walt Disney Pictures Music. His contributions to major motion pictures and albums, including Walt Disney`s "The Lion King" and "Rhythm Of The Pridelands," have earned him accolades, including a Grammy Award. Beyond academia and industry, Hill is an accomplished author with publications like "Scoring The Screen: The Secret Language of Film Music" and novels such as "Ministry." He has also presented on various topics at international events. As a composer, Hill has contributed original compositions for chamber orchestra, small orchestra, and electronic media, demonstrating his versatility and creativity. Andy Hill's diverse background in academia, industry, writing, and composition positions him as a leading authority in film musicology and contemporary media.

Masterclasses  with Andy Hill

Day 1: Monday, June 2

15:00–18:00, Room 10

“Putting Meaning Into Music” – Film Scoring Principles and Techniques (Lecture)

On the first day of his visit to VMI, Andy Hill will explore the role of signs and meaning in film music. The session will cover familiar musical codes and patterns, as well as how to read and interpret film scenes: What is the scene communicating? And how can music effectively support or enhance that message?

Day 2: Tuesday, June 3

15:00–18:00, Room 10

Feedback Session: VMI Student Film Scoring Submissions

On the second day of this masterclass series, selected student compositions created for specific film scenes will be presented and discussed. The scenes were made available to participants in advance, and Andy Hill will offer professional feedback on each submission. This provides a practical and in-depth look at the criteria and fundamentals of successful film scoring. The film clips come from three significant independent short films: Marry Me, Little Match Girl, and Proschay.

All participating students (especially those submitting a score for Tuesday’s session) are warmly invited, as are all VMI students and faculty members!