When Thomas Beckman was a child, he always stayed to watch the credit scenes in movies simply because he was immersed in the music.
As a violist, he recognized a lack in representation of his instrument in popular culture, and is now using it to bring 52 iconic film and television themes to life.
The viola is often overshadowed by the violin. While similar in style, the viola is larger and plays in a range most similar to the human voice. Beckman initially started learning music on the violin, but the rich, dark tones of the viola enticed him to switch instruments.
Over the last 10 years, the UBC MMus alumnus has turned his love of music into his livelihood by playing, teaching and composing across BC. While producing and collaborating on music videos, he realized the impact of an online presence, and eventually started his own Youtube channel.
In May 2023, Beckman’s friend told him he needed to post more consistently online, and he took this feedback to the extreme by launching a project called #violalicks — 52 videos of recognizable tunes, like John Williams’ Jurassic Park score, which will be posted weekly throughout 2024.
Each video in the series emphasizes “playing the inner voices” of the film themes. The colour and emotions of the music are felt in the harmonies, which according to Beckman, are “the chemistry of music.”
The process of turning these music themes into viola arrangements begins with Beckman listening and writing the arrangement by ear. Focusing on the music’s iconic parts, the arrangement becomes a one to two minute score.
Digital copies of all 52 arrangements for the viola will be available for sale once the project is complete. As of publication time, 39 have been completely arranged.
It’s important to Beckman that he showcases Vancouver in the series. From the salon of the Canadian Music Centre to the HR Macmillan Space Centre, the goal is for viewers to be immersed in the scenes and sounds of Vancouver.
Wide angle and close up shots make up the majority of the music videos. The limit on takes made Thomas hyper-aware of his movements and expressions in post-production. Sour faces, while deep in concentration, held tension. Reflecting on shots drove Thomas to adapt his stage presence prior to filming, adjusting his posture and relaxing his body.
“If [musicians] really are engaged, chances are, they can look mesmerizing,” said Beckman.
On a future Tuesday, Beckman will take the ferry to Lady Smith to record the remaining arrangements with his producer and audio engineer Sam Ryan. And like every other trip to Lady Smith, he will be greeted by Twiggy, Sam’s dog, who will ride on his lap, eager to spend the next fourteen hours immersed in the rich deep sounds of the viola.
A previous version of this article misstated that Beckman had conducting experience. The Ubyssey regrets this error.