Photo by: Katherine Griswold
Kim Scharnberg, orchestrations for theatre
How did you get started in your art?
I’ve been orchestrating and arranging music every since I was in 7th grade so when I had the opportunity to orchestrate for theatre I’d had many years of practice. I attended the Eastman School of Music and studied arranging with Rayburn Wright who’d been music director for Radio City Music Hall in NYC for 25 years. Frank Wildhorn gave me my first opportunity with Jekyll & Hyde – we did demos in 1986 and it reached Broadway in 1997!
How long have you been doing it?
see above!
What is your favorite part of it?
It’s like putting a puzzle together and adding color to that puzzle. Helping tell the story, advance the plot, delineate characters, etc. pretty much all of it!
What shows have you done and what have been your favorite?
For Broadway- Jekyll & Hyde (orig and revival), the Scarlet Pimpernel, Civil War, Little Women, Wonderland. Lots more both internationally and regionally. It’s like choosing a favorite child or ice cream- so many great memories of different aspects of each!
What are you future plans for your art?
I continue to work with several theatres doing new productions and re-orchestrating classics. Also working with lots of wonderful performers from the theatre world on a regular basis.
If you could give any advice to someone wanting to pursue your art, what would it be?
Compose, arrange and orchestrate every single chance you get- it’s all interwoven. Orchestration is a craft as well as an often under-appreciated art. Learn notation software like Finale or Sibelius but pursue live performances of your work. Listen, study and take chances by trying new things. Be flexible, kind and respectful to all- you’re usually not in charge and it’s a collaborative business.
You can find out more about this phenomenal and talented gentleman at http://www.KimScharnberg.com
The Theatre Ovation 