Daniel Blumberg’s score for the upcoming film The Testament of Ann Lee, a musical drama starring Amanda Seyfried, draws heavily on the sounds of the human body – clapping, stomping, and vocalizations – to create a raw and rhythmic soundscape. The film centers on Ann Lee, the 18th-century founder of the Shakers.
A Return to Origins
Blumberg’s approach to the music involved a deep dive into the history of the Shakers and their hymns. Having initially known little about the religious movement, he was inspired by documented accounts of early Shaker worship, which included wordless hymns and body sounds. He incorporated these elements into the score, collaborating with improvising singers like Phil Minton, Maggie Nicols, and Shelley Hirsch.
The soundtrack, set for release January 16, will feature both the film’s score and songs performed by the cast, including a duet titled “Clothed by the Sun” featuring Blumberg and Seyfried. Another song, “I Love Mother,” draws inspiration from the traditional Shaker hymn “Pretty Mother’s Home.”
A Collaborative Process
The Testament of Ann Lee marks Blumberg’s latest collaboration with director Mona Fastvold and her husband, Brady Corbet. This partnership follows their 2024 film, The Brutalist, for which Blumberg won an Academy Award for best original score in March. Blumberg described his working relationship with Fastvold and Corbet as essential to his creative process, emphasizing the importance of daily communication and emotional immersion in the project.
Currently, Blumberg is also working on a film score for Gianfranco Rosi’s documentary, Sotto Le Nuvole, about Pompeii, with much of the music recorded underwater. He is already back at work with Fastvold and Corbet on their next project.
What’s Next?
With The Testament of Ann Lee set to open across the country on December 25, Blumberg’s work is poised to reach a wider audience. The release of the soundtrack in January could further amplify the film’s impact, and his ongoing collaborations with Fastvold and Corbet suggest a continued creative partnership. It is likely that Blumberg will continue to explore unconventional sonic palettes and emotionally driven compositions in his future projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the central musical concept behind the score for The Testament of Ann Lee?
The score utilizes the human body as its primary instrument, incorporating sounds like clapping, stomping, and vocalizations to create a raw and rhythmic soundscape inspired by early Shaker worship.
Who directed The Testament of Ann Lee?
The film was directed by Mona Fastvold, who co-wrote the script with her husband, Brady Corbet.
What was Daniel Blumberg doing immediately after winning his Academy Award?
Blumberg immediately returned to London to continue working on the score for The Testament of Ann Lee.
How do you think a composer’s personal connection to a project influences the final result?
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