As a composer I spend most of my time creating underscore which is added to the already filmed and edited picture. Sometimes though I get the chance to make music for a specific scene before it is shot. After recording the music I then oversee the production and post production process, working with the actors and sound and camera and editing crews to get the best finished result possible. My technical editing background as well as my creative aesthetic make this a fun job for me. On this page you can see a few examples of this work.
Charles Sydnor Excerpts
A generous sampling of some musical moments I have composed or arranged for television and film.
Malcolm in the Middle
From Dewey's opera, Hal sings his heartfelt ode to the queen of his heart Lois.
Malcolm in the Middle
From Dewey's opera, Hal sings his heartfelt ode to the queen of his heart Lois.
Malcolm in the Middle
The mens choir at the academy prepare their a cappella piece for an important performance.
Malcolm in the Middle
Lois bonds with her mother as they perform traditional dances from their heritage.
Malcolm in the Middle
Hal's obsession with the dance video game comes to a dramatic end as he teams with his rival.
Malcolm in the Middle
Dewey sings to imaginary perfect parents since Hal and Lois couldn't get it together to make his performance. Featuring Bonnie Burroughs!
Malcolm in the Middle
Dewey loves to play but has no piano of his own so he makes an instrument using what he can find. I am grateful for the shoutout from the prop department on the piano.
Malcolm in the Middle
The cadets prepare their act for the talent show.
Quantum Leap
The talented Scott Bakula recreates an early recording session of Elvis.
Quantum Leap
A gifted young singer is torn between her love of pop music and her disapproving preacher father.
LA Law
The firm's new client is somewhat eccentric.
Radha
Here's some behind the scenes footage from the recording of "Radha" in Prague.
Aeschylus
This is an orchestral tone poem I composed and conducted.
"He who learns must suffer. And even in our sleep pain that cannot forget falls drop by drop upon the heart, and in our own despair, against our will, comes wisdom to us by the awful grace of God." - Aeschylus