Masterclass: The Art of Sound in Film

Description
In this two-day masterclass, Austrian sound recordist, sound artist, and film sound designer Johannes Schmelzer-Ziringer offers an in-depth exploration of the creative and technical dimensions of sound in cinema — from artistic conception to on-set recording and postproduction. Drawing on over two decades of experience and more than 100 international film productions, Johannes demonstrates how sound shapes atmosphere, emotion, and storytelling in both fiction and documentary film.

Using the feature film White Snail (AT 2025, dir. Elsa Kremser & Levin Peter) — showcased at this year’s Panorama Festival — as a central example, participants gain insight into the artistic decision-making process behind sound recording and sound design in contemporary European cinema. The sessions will combine film excerpts, case studies, and open discussions to provide a hands-on understanding of the craft.

About Johannes Schmelzer-Ziringer
Born in Austria in 1975, Johannes Schmelzer-Ziringer received extensive musical training from an early age and has worked as a musician, singer, stage performer, composer, and sound artist. Since 2001, he has contributed to over 100 film productions across 35 countries as a production sound mixer, sound designer, re-recording mixer, and film composer, with a strong focus on cinema — spanning feature films, documentaries, and art projects. Around 30 of the films he has worked on have received international awards. In 2021, he won the Austrian Film Award for Best Sound Design.

How to Apply

Interested participants can apply via this form

Applications are open until Friday 28th November, and spots are limited. Early registration is recommended.

This masterclass is held in cooperation with the Austrian Cultural Forum