Film writer and author Sean Wilson joins Luke to explore the fascinating world of film music and the art of musical storytelling. Sean discusses his new book, The Sound of Cinema, which traces the history of cinematic scores and the composers who shaped them, from Bernard Herrmann and Jerry Goldsmith to Thomas Newman, Howard Shore and John Williams.

Sean shares the story of discovering the magnificent Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia, an experience that reminded him of Howard Shore’s music from The Lord of the Rings and its ability to capture wonder and reverence.

Luke then improvises soundtracks to Sean’s stories, including a visit to The Grapes, a historic, cosy pub in London’s Limehouse, partly owned by Sir Ian McKellen.

They explore how harmony, melody and musical space can evoke anticipation, wonder, nostalgia and comfort without words—and how improvisation can transform intangible memories and experiences into music.
They discuss:
◼ How film music communicates emotion through tone, harmony, intervals and atmosphere, and why directors often describe music in emotional rather than technical terms

◼ How a journey to Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia inspires an improvised soundtrack of adventure, anticipation, wonder and the awe of discovering an ancient landscape

◼ How a quiet London pub becomes the inspiration for music that captures warmth, nostalgia and sanctuary before returning to the bustle of the city

◼ How musical storytelling transforms intangible memories and impressions into something tangible, revealing the power of improvisation to connect stories, emotions and listeners

Many Meetings by Howard Shore:

Follow Sean:

◼On Twitter: @seano22

◼Instagram: @seanfilmwriter

◼The Sound of Cinema, now available to pre-order from McFarland Publishing: Here

Follow the Grapes pub in London

Corrections: 5:52 North Macedonia, 5:16 North Macedonia, 5:52 Southern North Macedonia, 14.32 Sir Ian Mckellen is part of a shared ownership of the Grapes Pub

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