Bernard Herrmann

Bernard Herrmann, a pioneering figure in film music, was born prematurely to a family marked by intellectual and religious influences. Despite suffering from Sydenham's syndrome at a young age, he displayed remarkable musical talent early on, winning a composition prize at 13 and later studying with Percy Grainger. Herrmann's career took off when he began conducting and scoring for CBS radio, eventually collaborating with Orson Welles on projects like Citizen Kane, where he revolutionized American film sound with his innovative compositions.

Herrmann's partnership with Alfred Hitchcock on iconic films like Psycho solidified his status as one of the greatest film composers in history. While his departure from Hollywood was prompted by a shift towards more commercial scores, he continued to compose for acclaimed directors and expanded his concert and recording work. His unexpected passing in 1975 marked the end of a legendary career, leaving a lasting legacy as a master of emotional tension and innovation in music.