Inaugural Soundtrax Film Music Festival Lands in Rochester, NY, Featuring ‘Interstellar’ Organ Performance and Pioneering Sound Exploration

Rochester, NY – Prepare for a cinematic and sonic journey as the inaugural Soundtrax Film Music Festival premieres in Rochester, New York, from October 16-18, 2025. This groundbreaking event, billed as the first of its kind in North America, is set to explore the profound intersection of music, technology, and storytelling within visual media, drawing an array of composers, industry professionals, and enthusiasts to the city renowned as the birthplace of motion picture film.

A Fusion of Sound, Science, and Storytelling

The Soundtrax Film Music Festival is a collaborative endeavor spearheaded by the prestigious Eastman School of Music at the University of Rochester, working in tandem with the university’s Hajim School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. This unique partnership underscores the festival’s commitment to examining not only the artistic merit of film music but also the scientific and technological innovations that shape our auditory experiences in film, television, and video games. University of Rochester President Sarah C. Mangelsdorf noted the festival’s alignment with the university’s strengths in music performance, production, optics, acoustics, and engineering, calling it an “extraordinary way to share our incredible story as leaders in music and visual media.” The festival’s co-director, Mark Bocko, a distinguished professor of electrical and computer engineering, emphasized Rochester’s unique position as a hub of “cultural significance and technological innovation” ideal for hosting such a festival. The event is supported in part by a significant matching grant from the New York State Division of Tourism.

Celestial Organ Sounds: ‘Interstellar’ Takes Center Stage

A major highlight of the Soundtrax festival is a special concert dedicated to the evocative score of Christopher Nolan’s 2014 science fiction epic, “Interstellar.” Renowned organist Roger Sayer, who performed the organ elements for the film’s original soundtrack, will deliver a captivating performance of his arrangement of Hans Zimmer’s Oscar-nominated music. Sayer’s involvement with “Interstellar” arose from Hans Zimmer’s search for a church with a magnificent pipe organ, leading to a significant collaboration. The performance will take place on the historic Sanctuary Organ at Rochester’s Third Presbyterian Church, offering an intimate and resonant setting. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage with Sayer during a post-performance Q&A, delving into his experiences working alongside director Christopher Nolan and composer Hans Zimmer, and understanding the prominent role the organ played in conveying the film’s vast emotional landscape.

Diverse Programming: Orchestras, Composers, and Cutting-Edge Panels

Beyond the “Interstellar” feature, Soundtrax promises a rich tapestry of film music experiences. The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra is scheduled to perform a live-to-picture presentation of Alexandre Desplat’s score for “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2,” marking an epic conclusion to that beloved film concert series. Jazz great Terence Blanchard and his E-Collective will present “Film Scores Live!,” showcasing music from his extensive film and TV credits, accompanied by the Gateways Festival Orchestra. The festival will also celebrate the iconic work of John Williams with “John Williams Reimagined,” featuring chamber music arrangements of his celebrated themes performed by musicians who have collaborated with the legendary composer.

The festival extends beyond concerts to include a robust series of panel discussions and workshops. These sessions will explore timely topics such as “AI in Music Production,” “Music for Animation,” “Gaming Music,” and “spatial audio,” reflecting the festival’s dedication to the evolving landscape of music technology and its application in media. Academy and Emmy Award-winning composers, video game music pioneers, and industry leaders from major tech companies are slated to participate, offering invaluable insights into the art and business of film music.

Honoring Rochester’s Cinematic Heritage

Rochester’s historic connection to the film industry, dating back to George Eastman and the founding of Eastman Kodak Company, provides a fitting backdrop for this new festival. George Eastman, heralded as the father of motion picture film, established Eastman School of Music, which has since become a leading institution for film composition. The Soundtrax Festival not only celebrates this rich legacy but also aims to foster future innovation by bringing together pioneers and emerging talents in the field. The event is expected to attract film and music aficionados from across the country, eager to immerse themselves in the captivating world of cinematic sound.

The inaugural Soundtrax Film Music Festival promises a comprehensive and inspiring experience, offering a unique window into the artistry, technology, and collaborative spirit that define modern film music. This significant event is poised to become a cornerstone for film music appreciation and discourse in North America.