
Dick Donner
GBMomentum - a Total Emersion Experience The Momentum program from Cinematic Composing is a well-organized deep dive into all the facets of composing music for the entertainment industry and beyond. It is a program like few others, designed for the individual who is serious about learning how to compose music for cinema, television, video games and other formats where music plays an important role. Every detail of the art is covered in depth during the 7 to 8 month course, the most valuable feature of which is frequent one-on-one detailed feedback from accomplished individuals who have made their mark in the industry. The latter would be nearly impossible to receive under normal circumstances, but it is offered in Momentum in an organized, constructive format that is quite enjoyable. Momentum is not a course to be taken in one's spare time. Most participants remained completely immersed in the lessons, homework and evaluations for many hours each day, often spending additional hours in the late evening to complete a composition assignment. The curriculum extends well beyond the essentials of cinematic composing to more advanced concepts and includes very practical aspects such as the use of hardware and software, interacting with directors and producers and how to make yourself known to those who might hire you for a project. The methodology includes videos, frequent live chats with all members of the class (limited to about 20 individuals) and evaluation sessions. Near the end of the course, the class assembled in Los Angeles for a weekend of study, live recording of individual compositions and general comradery. The course of study compares to a graduate level college offering and is well worth the expense. I was a member of the very first Momentum group and I am happy to learn that some of the content and procedures have been altered to make the experience even better. Pre-existing knowledge of music theory varied considerably among my classmates but there was ample opportunity and resources to supplement skills, where lacking. For example, some facility with the piano is necessary, and although my abilities were markedly limited (I am a woodwind player), I was able to acquire enough skill to be very comfortable and productive. Although the course was designed to serve the younger individual who wishes to begin a career in cinematic composing, I accepted the challenge in my mid-70's solely for the pleasure of learning a new subject. However, I now find myself writing music for my own enjoyment and variety of small projects.

Michael Lau
GBWow...Momentum is an Amazing Experience Marc Jovani's Momentum program is the best!!!! Marc and the other program mentors provided a unique, nurturing, educational experience that truly elevated my confidence as a composer. Each week allowed all of us to explore our own creativity within the assignments; cookie cutter Momentum is not! The live feedback and weekly Q&A sessions provided a space where everyone in my cohort to, not only learn from Marc and the other mentors, but from each other. Our group of students came from such diverse backgrounds, but with the same objective...to be a better Cinematic Composer. It was so special to see a few that might not have had as much experience compositing in the style, let along have much DAW or Sample Library experience, grow and flourish and expand upon their innate gifts and talents. Walking with others and watching them grow as composers was one of the best parts of the program. Nothing was a "stupid question," nothing was "off limits." We got to be ourselves to learn, grow and achieve as composers. I wouldn't be the Compser I am now without going through Marc's Momentum program. In addition, Marc and the other mentors and students have become friends. Marc is true to his word of being there for all of us. Even though I went through Momentum over a year ago, Marc is still responsive and supportive as a mentor and friends. If you have any doubts, you are most likely doubting yourself and your ability. Those doubts are the reason you should sign up for Momentum as it will remove them all and bring you confidence.

Risha Shine
GBMomentum Gave Me Hope Prior to joining Momentum, I'd gone to traditional conservatory and while it was a great experience to have, it was very much rooted in a different culture when it came to the music I wanted to create as a composer and the music they were trying to push me in the direction of. The Momentum program, and Cinematic Composing as a whole, allowed me to score music to film in a way that spoke to me and not to how the instructors wanted my finished product to sound. My creative voice was respected and Momentum allowed me to challenge myself by pushing my creative boundaries without losing my creative voice in the process. Before Momentum, I felt like I wouldn't be able to write music others would/could appreciate due to my experience in conservatory, but Momentum helped me prove to myself that my creative voice is valuable and gave me hope for my creative career.