My Internship with Hans Zimmer

The Journey to Remote Control Productions

In the summer of 2017, I had the incredible opportunity to intern with the acclaimed film composer, Hans Zimmer, at Remote Control Productions (RCP) in Santa Monica, California. This experience was a pivotal moment in my career as a film composer, providing me with invaluable insights and hands-on experience in the world of film scoring.

As a native of Shelby, North Carolina, and a double major in music composition and film at Gardner-Webb University, I was passionate about pursuing a career in film music. My journey began when, as a college freshman, I spoke with a previous intern who encouraged me to apply to Zimmer’s internship program. After a rigorous selection process, I was thrilled to be offered a position as an intern for the summer of 2017.

Working with the Best in the Industry

Remote Control Productions, Inc. (RCP) is a renowned film score company founded by Hans Zimmer. At RCP, I got a behind-the-scenes look at the intricate process of composing a film score. I was able to sit in on sessions with composers, mixers, and arrangers each week, observing their creative processes and learning from some of the best in the industry. Notable composers at RCP include Henry Jackman, Geoff Zanelli, Lorne Balfe, Rupert Gregson-Williams, and, of course, Zimmer himself.

Hands-On Learning and Priceless Experiences

One of the most memorable aspects of my Hans Zimmer internship was attending a class held by one of the composers, where I learned about their life and previewed scenes from an upcoming film they had scored. Additionally, I watched a professional recording session in the studio, which was an eye-opening experience.

My time at RCP wasn’t just about observing; it was also about learning the ropes of the film music business. The studio is a massive campus that spans an entire block and employs over 100 full-time staff. I gained firsthand experience in the work environment of a film music company, understanding the hierarchy and the collaborative nature of the industry. RCP works closely with Extreme Music and Bleeding Fingers Custom Music Shop, showcasing the dynamic and interconnected nature of the business.

Mastering the Tools of the Trade

A significant part of my learning at RCP involved mastering music software. Before my internship, I had limited experience with industry-standard programs like Logic Pro X, Cubase, and Pro Tools. Observing the composers at RCP, I learned the ins and outs of these software programs. Their proficiency in these tools was astounding, and I aspired to achieve the same level of expertise.

The composers at RCP were incredibly interactive, often stopping to explain how they achieved certain sounds, effects, or musical moments. This hands-on learning was invaluable and significantly improved my proficiency with music software. However, it also highlighted areas where I needed to improve, giving me clear goals to work towards during my final year in college.

Career Impact