“Eternal Source of Light” was released in 2020 and was directed by Eliza P. Smith of Dallas. It showcases two vocal works by George Frederic Handel in a cinematic story of friendship.
Lumedia Musicworks recently won an Award of Merit from The Best Shorts Film Competition in California. It was bestowed for “Eternal Source of Light,” which combines opera and oratorio arias into a story of anger cured by friendship. The award was presented to the Dallas-based early music ensemble in the category for music video short films.
Directed by Eliza P. Smith of Dallas, a music teacher at Dallas International School and a former member of Lumedia, the film originally debuted in July 2020 online via Lumedia’s website and other sharing platforms. Lumedia focuses on performing early music - music composed before 1750. The ensemble produces unique short films alongside other digital media to encourage new audiences to explore early classical music.
The musical inspiration for the story is music composed by George Frideric Handel (1685-1759). Accompanied by the Lumedia ensemble, soprano Gabrielle Gilliam of Dallas sings “Furie Terribli” from Rinaldo and soprano and Grammy nominee Julianna Emanski of Frisco, Lumedia’s artistic director, sings “Eternal Source of Light” from Ode for the Birthday of Queen Anne.
Filming took place in Boerne, near San Antonio, and Ennis, south of Dallas.
“We juxtaposed a couple of extreme archetypes - how light conquers dark - with the help of some of Texas’ most striking natural settings,” Emanski said. “In this case, it’s natural underground caverns versus sun-drenched flower fields.”
To celebrate the recognition, Lumedia is re-releasing “Eternal Source of Light” to the public at no charge. Donations are always welcome. Go to https://www.lumediamusicworks.com/short-films.
“The film is a great example of what Lumedia creates on a regular basis,” Emanski said. “It’s music from a previous era - shaken, not stirred, with a twist.”
The Best Shorts competition recognizes film, television, videography and new media professionals who demonstrate exceptional achievement in craft and creativity. Entries are judged by industry professionals.
The film also earned a semi-finalist award from the International Music Video Awards in London.