Meet the Composer
The Arts Council of Princeton Presents Ben Model
Composer and pianist Ben Model performed original accompaniments to classic comedy (silent) film shorts before a live audience in the Arts Council of Princeton's Solley Theater. The Theater features a HD-projection system, a Steinway grand piano, and moveable seating for up to 120 audience members. For many years, the Arts Council has shown classic comedy films to family audiences during the holiday season. The films are selected and the sessions introduced by film historian Bruce Lawton. Model and Lawton took part in a post-performance discussion/Q & A designed to offer audiences a closer connection with the composer and the body of work he has created for silent films.
In the two weeks following the film screening and concert performance, Mr. Model gave a pair of workshops: one with area music students and the second with a group of homeless students who attend art sessions organized by the Arts Council each week. The workshop format allowed participants to talk about their careers, demonstrate their craft and engage the audience in issues of composition and improvisation.