BMI honored the composers and songwriters of the music from the past year’s top-grossing films, top-rated prime-time network television series and highest-ranking cable network programs at its annual Film & Television Awards. Held May 17 at the Regent Beverly Wilshire Hotel, the black-tie gala was hosted by BMI President & CEO Del Bryant and Film/TV Relations Vice President Doreen Ringer Ross, who handed out more than 100 BMI Crystals throughout the evening.
A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the BMI Richard Kirk Award for Outstanding Career Achievement to versatile film composer Harry Gregson-Williams. Named after late BMI Vice President Richard Kirk, the prestigious award is given annually to a composer who has made significant contributions to film and television music. Past honorees include Jerry Goldsmith, Mike Post, Thomas Newman, Michael Kamen, Mark Mothersbaugh, Lalo Schifrin, Danny Elfman, Alan Menken and John Williams.
One of Hollywood’s most sought-after composers, Harry Gregson-Williams has infused his unique musical talent into the scores of such diverse films as The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Man on Fire, Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason, Shrek, Shrek 2, Spy Game, Chicken Run, Kingdom of Heaven, Antz and Domino. The British-born Golden Globe nominee, who was named Composer of the Year at the 2005 Hollywood Film Festival, is currently working on the music to Shrek the Third and Déjà Vu.