New York musician Larry Saltzman, known for his work teaching actors how to play music for their roles, has gained recognition for his guitar instruction with actor Timothée Chalamet. Chalamet's portrayal of Bob Dylan in the film 'A Complete Unknown' earned him a best actor nomination at the upcoming Academy Awards, where the film is also a contender for best picture.
Saltzman, a seasoned guitarist who has collaborated with renowned artists and worked on Broadway productions, has carved out a niche in coaching actors on musical performances. His roster of students includes notable names like Adam Driver and Sadie Sink.
His foray into teaching actors began unexpectedly when he was approached by a movie studio, leading to a pivotal collaboration with Meryl Streep for her role in 'Ricki and the Flash.' Streep's endorsement paved the way for Saltzman's success in this specialized field, which now constitutes a significant portion of his professional endeavors.
Recognizing the importance of authenticity in performances, Saltzman emphasizes the significance of actors mastering musical skills to enhance their characters' believability. His extensive sessions with Chalamet, spanning in-person and virtual lessons, underscore the dedication required for actors to excel in musical roles.
Chalamet's commitment to learning guitar under Saltzman's tutelage was evident in his recent appearance on 'Saturday Night Live,' where he showcased his musical talents with obscure Dylan tracks. Saltzman's deep knowledge of Dylan's music proved instrumental in shaping Chalamet's portrayal of the iconic artist.
Actors like Johnny Cannizzaro, preparing for roles requiring musical proficiency, laud Saltzman's patient and encouraging teaching style. Saltzman's meticulous approach, which includes studying musicians' techniques for accurate portrayal, underscores his commitment to ensuring actors' musical performances are authentic.
As Saltzman continues to balance teaching, studio work, live performances, and Broadway engagements, he finds fulfillment in witnessing his students' on-screen success. His contributions to enhancing actors' musical performances underscore his role in elevating the quality of films, making him a vital component in the filmmaking process.
