Kerry Kennard: Music composer, music editor and musician in Dayton, Ohio.

When you compose, do you hear things before you sit down and write? Or do you find melodies with an instrument or DAW?

Recently I was reseaching for my new up-coming emotional score, then I figured out that music has more ability to fill the space between the "Scene" and the "Character who is deaf & Dumb". Then I came up with title "The Unspoken Voice", by adding some finite detailing elements.

Some of the most powerful moments in cinema aren’t spoken—they are felt. Music has the unique ability to express what words cannot, filling the space between dialogue and silence.

Think about that one scene where the music alone made you cry, cheer, or hold your breath. Whether it’s the aching strings of heartbreak, the haunting hum of suspense, or the soaring crescendo of triumph, music becomes the unspoken voice of storytelling.

But how do we, as filmmakers, screenwriters, composers, and editors, decide what the music should say?

1. Filmmakers & Writers: Have you ever envisioned a scene where music replaced dialogue?

2. Composers & Sound Designers: How do you craft melodies that bring out hidden emotions?

3. Editors & Directors: How do you decide when a scene needs silence, subtlety, or a powerful score?

Let’s talk about those moments in film where music spoke louder than words. Drop your thoughts below!

I'd love to start understanding the world of composing and music for movies and films. Could you suggest some resources? And I’d love to hear from any composers here—what’s a common mistake new filmmakers make when working with a composer?

Hi everyone! I'd love to hear what everyone is working on (or recently finished.)

Know this is the composing lounge,

… is it wise for composers to have a

Top video program to use at times in the composing process? Know Dorico and

Logic Pro import video, though to help put it together and possibly … work doing

Video editing- wouldn’t this be worth a mid-price point having this software?

I have iMovie, though the next one up might be better for more complex editing (?!)

Does anyone here have a good stand alone video program ?

The fusion of virtual production techniques with AI-driven technology is rapidly transforming the post-production landscape. With real-time visualization, seamless VFX integration, and advanced AI-assisted workflows, filmmakers are achieving more immersive and efficient storytelling than ever before. From LED walls and real-time rendering to AI-powered enhancements that refine visual effects on the fly, virtual production is bridging the gap between pre-production, shooting, and post. This technology allows filmmakers to visualize, adjust, and enhance their scenes in ways that weren’t possible just a few years ago.

Read more about this trend here: https://www.cgw.com/Press-Center/Web-Exclusives/2025/Virtual-production-...

Are you incorporating virtual production or AI tools into your post-production workflow? What challenges or advantages do you see in this shift?

Had this random tune playing in the background while writing, and for some odd reason, it transported me—like I was a kid again, sitting at my little table eating oatmeal, watching Trading Moms. There’s this one garden scene in the movie with a specific sound that always made me feel warm inside. Funny how certain sounds or music can tap into something deep like that.

Curious—do you guys write with music playing?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktTfV6VEATk

Hi, My name is Kerry Kennard, and am a drummer / percussionist and now composer, combining my years of music study and performance and been reading a few books on the Film music world has helped some. One of the best resources is "On the Track" by Fred Karlin and Rayburn Wright. Maybe a little dated, though there's good info. how to write and the composer's examples are helpful how to work with other people in the Film Industry.

I've performed drums on the road (1 + years), musicals in TN and OH, and performed on Holland America Line ships for three years, seeing about 3-4 diff. continents, spec. US, S. America, and European contracts. It's great experience playing diff. styles of music, as well as those Production shows listening to a click / sound tracks we performed with. Met many different musicians, due to when people come into the contract with the diff. ships. HAL was a great experience, learning the music, as well as meeting some of the guests. Hearing what the producers created I think helps with the composing work.

I've been learning Sync from many people last five - 7 years. I think writing to film is better, though know the Sync world is a stepping stone ... I think. :~)

I have a few irons in the fire this year with writing a few short films !

Main goal is to finish a Jazz project started a decade ago. There's one Blues tune instrumental on there. It's a Contemporary style as well, for myself. Plans are to finish by 4th Qtr this year, as time and funds allow.

The educational journey can be found on LinkedIn or this St. 32 profile.

I teach drums Part time, helping JH/HS through adult age.

Thank Ashley for the Mod. request last year. Hoping to learn from all of you as well. The Music creating / Music Tech / and performing part make up a lot of who we all are.

Have a great week everyone !

Kerry Kennard

My name is Ashley Smith, and I’m the Head of Community here at Stage 32!

Before joining this incredible team, I spent nearly seven years in development and talent management, working across film, TV, and streaming projects for companies like Amazon, Sony TV, FX, Universal TV, Paramount TV, and more. Now, I have the absolute privilege of overseeing this amazing Stage 32 Community, the daily Blog, weekly AMAs, monthly in-person Meetups, and numerous initiatives to help you connect, learn, and grow in the entertainment industry.

I love seeing our members engage, collaborate, and support one another every day, and I’m always working on ways to bring you even more opportunities, insights, and resources. If there’s anything you’d love to see more of in the lounges, AMAs, blogs, or meetups, let me know. I want to make Stage 32 as helpful as possible for you!

Since it’s February, let’s have a little fun- what’s your favorite romance or rom-com film of all time? Or, in honor of Black History Month, what’s a film or TV series by a Black filmmaker or creator that you think everyone should see? Let’s get the conversation going!

Looking forward to meeting new members and reconnecting with familiar faces. Drop a comment and say hello!

Hello, colleagues, I’d like to share my updated music portfolio with you. I hope I’ve chosen the right place to post it. Thank you. Wishing everyone a great day and weekend. p.s. And yes, I would be happy to hear your honest feedback. I really appreciate when people speak the truth, as it helps us grow.