At Milan’s SLAM Festival, CAM Sugar Celebrated 65 Years of a Music Catalogue That’s Scored Thousands of Films
The inaugural SLAM – Sounds Like a Movie festival, held in Milan this month, celebrated the profound connection between music and film, echoing the sentiment of renowned Italian composer Ennio Morricone, who famously stated, “Music must be able to say what words can’t.” This new international festival, a collaboration between CAM Sugar and Triennale Milano, offered an exciting platform for exploring the intricate relationship between soundtracks and cinema. Over the course of the festival, more than 30 events unfolded, featuring a diverse array of activities including live performances, film screenings, panel discussions, and workshops, all designed to highlight the role of music in enhancing the cinematic experience.
One of the festival’s standout features was its emphasis on the work of notable composers and musicians who have shaped the film industry. Attendees were treated to live performances of iconic film scores, as well as discussions led by industry veterans who shared insights into the creative process behind composing for the screen. The festival also provided a unique opportunity for emerging artists to showcase their talents, fostering a sense of community among filmmakers, musicians, and audiences alike. With a lineup that included both classic and contemporary works, SLAM aimed to demonstrate how music transcends language and cultural barriers, creating an emotional landscape that resonates deeply with viewers.
In addition to the performances and panels, SLAM also curated a series of workshops aimed at educating aspiring composers and filmmakers about the nuances of scoring for film. These sessions covered topics such as the importance of thematic development, the integration of sound design, and the collaborative nature of film music production. By bridging the gap between established professionals and up-and-coming talent, the festival not only celebrated the art of film music but also inspired a new generation of creators. As SLAM concluded, it left a lasting impression on attendees, reaffirming Morricone’s belief in the power of music to convey emotions and narratives that words alone cannot express.
A maxim from Italian composer Ennio Morricone — “Music must be able to say what words can’t” — was a working thesis at Cam Sugar’s inaugural SLAM – Sounds Like a Movie festival this month in Milan. The new international festival, a collaboration between CAM Sugar and Triennale Milano, packed more than 30 events into […]