The music for Bibi was conceived of after Lola and Bek had given us the animation. Few assignments are as fun and challenging as Bibi. The combination of playfulness and artistry in the film inspired us to create a soundtrack that amplified Bibi’s spirit of mischief as well as her sophistication. The opening slow theme (written by Nicki and arranged by Anton) features piccolo (played by Anton), celeste, piano (played by Nicki), cello and bass. The sweet quality of the piccolo gives way to a march beat from the snare drum that introduces the second jazz theme, (also written by Nicki and arranged by Anton) which is played by a jazz trio, bongo and alto saxophone. We felt that Bibi’s improvisatory spirit in wreaking havoc in her mother's bedroom practically demanded jazz improvisation—supplied by Anton's alto solos, Nicki’s piano solo and Jennifer's bass interlude. In scoring the film, we were looking to match the mood and shape of the plot rather than to mirror the specific actions of the characters.

About the composers, Nicki and Anton Denner:
Anton Denner was born in New York City in 1961 and began playing the saxophone in 1974. After early studies with Lee Konitz and Joe Lovano, he began to freelance in the New York area in the early ‘80’s, performing at The Village Gate, Visiones, the 55 Bar, Birdland and many other venues. Anton has also worked with or played alongside with many of the great musicians in jazz, such as Ray Charles, Rosemary Clooney, Clifford Jordan, Bobby McFerrin, Mel Lewis, Bill Carrothers, and Bill Stewart. Anton has also been a featured soloist at the Napa Valley Jazz Festival, the Istanbul Jazz Festival (with the NY Jazz Giants) and the LaVillette Festival in France. Bibi is his first collaboration in an animation project.

Related links:
www.bridgeboymusic.com
www.cslproductions.com

Originally from Minneapolis, pianist/composer Nicki Denner has been an active member of the creative music scene in the New York area since 1999. Nicki’s musical history includes being musical director of a Puerto Rican folkloric music ensemble, an accompanist for the “Meet the Artist” program at Lincoln Center and NJPAC, pianist/composer for the New Jersey Tap Ensemble and pianist for Chicago City Limits, the New York based improv comedy troupe. In 1998, she recorded her debut CD, “Don't Just Stand There”, which features original Latin jazz. Her latest recording, “El Medico de Coqui”, features traditional Latin love songs sung by Puerto Rican vocalist, Julian Llanos. Both can be found at cdbaby.com. She also leads a jazz trio which plays in the New York metropolitan area. Bibi is the first time she has composed for film.