Tim Ahlering is the Director of Music Marketing at the Sony Pictures. He has also led the Music & Film Score workshop for the past two editions of the Sony Future Filmmaker Awards. Since 2008, Tim has supported the music department coordinating soundtracks for films such as Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse amongst others.
We chat with Tim about his experience shaping the musical landscapes of major films and how emerging filmmakers can effectively harness the power of music to elevate their storytelling.
You’ve been working in the music department of Sony Pictures for almost two decades, from starting as a Music Coordinator to now holding the position of the Director of Music Marketing. What initially drew you to music in film?
Initially, I wanted to pursue a career in music. Growing up, I loved the movies as well. I was drawn to storytelling and helping artists navigate the intersection between the film and music businesses.
Music plays a crucial role in shaping a film's emotional impact. It helps to set the tone, with the power to either guide the viewers’ feelings or to equally create a striking contrast to the scene’s context. What’s your favorite movie scene that you’ve worked on?
My favorite movie scene to work on was from Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse when Miles sings “Sunflower” in his opening scene.
Are there any particular films that stand out to you in terms of their unique or innovative use of music?
One of my favorite movies is Home Alone and its’ iconic soundtrack. From needle drops like “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” or “Run Rudolph Run” to John Williams unforgettable score, that film has it all.
In your opinion, why is participating in awards programs such as the Sony Future Filmmaker Awards an important part of a filmmaker’s career?
Everyone in Hollywood talks about relationships. Sony’s program allows emerging filmmakers to build relationships with studio executives and other talented filmmakers.
What three key pieces of advice would you give to filmmakers when it comes to selecting music or collaborating on an original score for their films? What common pitfalls should they avoid?
1) If you’re not having fun, you’re doing it incorrectly.
2) Collaboration is key – creative gets better when we learn to trust others and take risks outside our comfort zone
3) Resilience: the importance of resilience – particularly in the face of disappointment – is indispensable in any creative pursuit