The quote suggests that when a composer like Henry Mancini is approached to create music for a film or picture, they prefer to observe and study it multiple times rather than watching rushes to grasp an immediate feeling. This method allows them to immerse themselves in the visual material before starting to conceptualize the musical score.
At its core, this statement reveals a profound approach to creative work and underscores the importance of thorough analysis before embarking on a project. By spending time with the visuals, Mancini ensures that he captures every nuance and detail necessary for creating a soundtrack that complements and enhances the film's narrative. This method also allows him to avoid being swayed too quickly by initial impressions or moods, ensuring his compositions are thoughtful and well-integrated into the overall artistic vision of the project.
Henry Mancini was an iconic American composer renowned for his contributions to film, television, and popular music. He is best known for his work on films like "Breakfast at Tiffany's" and "The Pink Panther," where he created memorable scores that have become cultural touchstones. His innovative approach to scoring has left a lasting impact on the industry, making him one of the most respected figures in film composition history.