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Theodore Shapiro - Severance (Main Title Theme)

7 snips
Mar 5, 2025
Theodore Shapiro, composer renowned for his work with Ben Stiller, discusses the captivating main title theme for the acclaimed series Severance. He reveals how the initial concept evolved through experimentation with unique sound palettes and organic motifs, fitting the show's intricate themes. Shapiro shares intriguing stories about his creative process, including avoiding typical temp tracks to maintain originality. Listeners will also discover how the music's emotional dynamics resonate deeply with the show's narrative, making it an unforgettable auditory experience.
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ANECDOTE

Halloween Party Connection

  • Theodore Shapiro's connection to Severance began unexpectedly at a Halloween party.
  • He learned about the project from Adam Scott, whose son was in Shapiro's son's class.
ANECDOTE

Bobby McFerrin Influence

  • Ben Stiller mentioned a film using Bobby McFerrin's music as a tonal reference for Severance.
  • This sparked Shapiro's initial exploration of using falsetto male voices in the score.
ADVICE

Temp Track Pitfalls

  • Avoid using temp tracks from other sources when composing for film.
  • Temp tracks can stifle creativity and limit the composer's exploration of original ideas.
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