Lecture Notes on Hans Zimmer's Score for Dune Part Two

Introduction

• Speaker: Hans Zimmer
• Topic: Breakdown of the score for Dune Part Two
• Background: Discussed continuation from Dune Part One, emphasizing creative process and collaboration.

Writing Process and Collaboration

• Initially continued writing after Dune Part One was completed, despite not being greenlit for part two.
• Collaborated closely with director Deni Villeneuve.
• Emphasized the importance of working with virtuoso musicians rather than a traditional orchestral score.

Musical Themes and Influences

• Mentioned a central voice from part one, sung by L Cotler, known for her extraordinary vocal range.
• Wrote with specific musicians in mind, tailoring the score to their talents and skills.
• Discussed a unique keyboard called "Osmos" created by French musicians, allowing for a range of emotional expression similar to traditional instruments.

Instrumentation and Sound Design

• Utilized unconventional instruments made from scrap metal, created by sculptor CH Smith.
• Instruments allowed for diverse sounds, contributing to the film's atmosphere.
• Emphasized how musicians must listen to each other to create a cohesive sound.

Visual and Storytelling Integration

• Worked closely with the cinematographer (DP) to align music with visual elements and color grading.
• Preferred storytelling through discussions rather than reading the script directly, allowing for better alignment with the director's vision.
• Reflected on the importance of the score in enhancing the film's emotional depth and character interactions.

Creative Experimentation

• Expressed ongoing search for beauty and innovation in music composition.
• Discussed the evolution from Dune Part One as an introduction to Dune Part Two offering more grit and action.
• Mentioned the importance of female power in storytelling and composition, highlighting the strength of female percussionists.

Collaboration with Sound Designers

• Collaborated with Richard King, a prominent sound designer, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in sound creation.
• Discussed humorous experiences with low-quality knockoffs of his music and the serendipitous connection with musician Steve Mazaro, leading to a fruitful collaboration.

Conclusion

• Zimmer indicated a continuous connection to the Dune universe, receiving Dune Messiah from Deni Villeneuve, hinting at future projects.
• Reinforced the idea of collaboration and experimentation as key components of the creative process in film scoring.