New York Musician’s Journey with Actors in the Film Industry
In New York, musician Larry Saltzman is not your typical film fan, but this year, he has a special reason to tune in to the Oscars. He had the privilege of teaching actor Timothée Chalamet to play guitar for his role as Bob Dylan in the film "A Complete Unknown," which has garnered a nomination for Best Actor and Best Picture.
Saltzman, a guitarist with a rich history of performing alongside legends like Simon & Garfunkel, Bette Midler, and others, has built a unique niche in the film world by teaching actors how to play instruments for their roles. He’s worked with several well-known artists, including Adam Driver and Sadie Sink from "Stranger Things."
His journey into this world of movie music began about ten years ago when a fellow musician recommended him to a studio. At first, Saltzman was skeptical and tried to steer them away from hiring him. It wasn’t until the fifth call that he learned the client was none other than Meryl Streep, who needed guitar lessons for her role in the 2015 movie "Ricki and the Flash." This opportunity proved to be a stepping stone, leading to more clients after Streep’s positive experience. Today, teaching actors comprises around 40% of his business.
Reflecting on his time with Streep, Saltzman praised her intelligence and dedication. “She’s smart. She knows how to learn things. There was steady progress,” he said, acknowledging how rewarding it is to work with someone who is committed to their craft.
For actors, especially serious ones, the need for authentic musical ability is crucial. Pretending to play is not an option, as audiences can see through it, diminishing the overall believability of the character. For Chalamet, the challenge was even greater, as he had to sing and play simultaneously.
Saltzman shared that Chalamet underwent more than 50 lessons, adapting from in-person sessions to Zoom during the pandemic. The young actor described Saltzman as not just a teacher but a partner in creativity, helping him navigate a daunting task: learning 25 songs. Chalamet openly expressed gratitude for the support, saying their collaboration kept them both grounded during challenging times.
As a fan of Bob Dylan, Saltzman taught Chalamet to capture the essence of “pre-electric Bob,” ultimately leading Chalamet to step onto "Saturday Night Live" to showcase his newfound skills. Saltzman noted that Chalamet’s effort to explore obscure Dylan tracks demonstrated his commitment to authenticity.
Saltzman finds teaching actors rewarding, largely due to the focused goals they bring. This contrasts with more casual learners, which can sometimes be more challenging. Actor Johnny Cannizzaro, who is preparing for a role in an upcoming Bruce Springsteen biopic, praised Saltzman’s calm demeanor and supportive approach.
Saltzman has also been busy with studio work and performances in New York clubs, along with Broadway engagements. When he sees his former students shine on screen, it reinforces the value of his contributions. For him, being a small part of the film-making process is gratifying, knowing he has played a role in bettering the artistic experience.
As he anticipates the Oscars, Saltzman can take pride in his involvement in a project that highlights the importance of genuine talent in film. “In my own humble way, I’m a small gear in that machinery,” he remarked, finding satisfaction in helping create something meaningful.
