forte documentary (2019)
Forte is an ensemble cast documentary featuring Tatiana Berman, Lucia Caruso, and Eldbjørg Hemsing. Directed by David Donnelly (Maestro, 2015), this fast-paced film explores the notion of success and excellence from a female perspective. Through the intertwined narratives of three artists, Forte challenges popular-and perhaps outdated-ideas of achievement in classical music. It follows a young Norwegian violinist on the brink of stardom; a cultural entrepreneur and mother of three reinventing the traditional concert experience to inspire younger audiences; and a first-generation American from Argentina, whose creative process of composing a film soundtrack is documented and revealed in an unprecedented way.
The documentary has been screened at renowned institutions including the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, German Embassy, Elbphilharmonie, University of Richmond, Constella Festival, Avant Première, Arlington Symphony, Santa Fe Symphony, and the National Arts Centre.
For public screenings, festival bookings, and appearances by director David Donnelly, and featured protagonists Tatiana Berman and Lucia Caruso, please contact the film team at constellaproductions@gmail.com for availability and details.
“Forte is a sensitive, intelligent examination of the obstacles women face in the world of professional classical music.It's rich with candor, humor, and insights about what it takes to succeed in that business. It will inspire and educate musicians both old and young about the joys and heartbreaks of the music world, and all that goes along with it.”
TERESA HUDSON, EDUCATOR, UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND
“Forte is a dynamic and inspiring film that captures with remarkable zest and appeal the often quite insular world of classical music. This film will intrigue not only connoisseurs of this musical style, but also interest general audiences with its appealing storyline. Critically important as well is a powerful female perspective that emerges, a feeling that more equality and balance is continuing to take hold in the classical world as we view it through the eyes of three artists: Tatiana Berman, Lucía Caruso and Eldbjørg Hemsing.”
MICHAEL SPUDIC, AMERICAN SOCIETY OF COMPOSERS, AUTHORS AND PUBLISHERS
“A stunning film. Without question it is a must-see for musicians and non-musicians alike. With humor and insight Forte takes you on a fantastic journey of the beauty that can be produced with dedication and perseverance.It will make you re-evaluate the meaning of success and inspire you to pursue your passions personally and professionally. And if you can, watch it with your children!”
DAVID GILL, CONSUL GENERAL OF GERMANY IN NEW YORK
“This is an absolutely stunning film to watch about hardworking women in the music industry. Through watching this it becomes clear that with inspiration, perseverance, and support from those around you, the sky truly is the limit.”
“I would highly recommend this documentary to anyone interested in expanding their knowledge of music and the realities of working in this field.”
“Fast-paced, beautifully made inspiring documentary. Great to see women in classical music showing us what it sometimes takes to have a successful career in the 21st century. I watched it with my teenager and she loved it too! Highly recommend!”
“It's a cool movie! Very interesting to see three very different paths in classical music and learn how each woman's success story is unique. Forte documentary is truly fast-paced, with some funny and emotionally-charged moments. Sharing this one with friends!”