A three-day masterclass on film music composition, led by veteran filmmaker Aribam Syam Sharma, commenced on Wednesday at the Manipur State Film and Television Institute (MSFTI) in Imphal.

The intensive programme is jointly organised by MSFTI and the Television and Cine Foundation (TCF), Manipur, with a primary focus on film music composition and the evolving role of music in cinema.

Out of numerous applicants from diverse professional and creative backgrounds, 21 candidates were selected to participate in the masterclass. The participants include aspiring filmmakers, musicians, media students and cinema enthusiasts, reflecting a broad spectrum of talent and experience.

During the three-day session, Aribam Syam Sharma, widely regarded as a pioneer of Manipuri cinema, will share his insights on the aesthetics of film music, the creative collaboration between directors and composers, and the technical aspects of scoring for films. The programme will also provide practical guidance on preparing and presenting entries for film music composition.

Organisers said the masterclass aims to nurture emerging talent in Manipur’s film and music sectors while strengthening both academic and practical understanding of cinema at the institute.