Sound into Image — Silent Film Scoring Workshop

From the invention of the camera in 1839 to the creation of the phonograph in 1877, humanity gradually acquired the ability to record images and sound, ushering in a new era of sensory documentation and artistic expression. It was during this transformative period—when China was transitioning from silent to sound film—that Cai Chusheng emerged as both a key witness and an active participant.

Set against the backdrop of the exhibition "The Director's Room: Cai Chusheng", the workshop began with film clips by director Cai Chusheng. Under the guidance of instructor Liu Pi, participants engaged in a practical exploration of sound creation. Throughout the session, participants explored the fundamental properties of sound and its artistic expression, gaining insights into the distinctions between sound, noise, musical tones, and Foley effects.

Through listening, experimentation, and collaborative creation, participants ultimately infused new sound into a one-minute clip of Song of the Fishermen. This immersive experience allowed them to feel how sound engages with and contributes to cinematic storytelling and to appreciate the charm and creative potential of sound in early filmmaking.