In the heart of New England, a unique individual named Jeff Rapsis has dedicated his life to rekindling the magic of silent films. From an early age, his fascination with this art form began when he encountered these classics in junior high school. This interest evolved into a career that blends his love for music and cinema. Today, Rapsis travels extensively, performing live musical accompaniments to silent movies, captivating audiences across various venues. His work not only preserves a fading cultural treasure but also brings joy and nostalgia to modern viewers.

A Life Devoted to Silent Movies

During the vibrant autumn of his youth, Jeff Rapsis discovered silent films through a film-collecting music teacher. In those days, while other students were indifferent, Rapsis was captivated by the charm of Charlie Chaplin and other legendary figures. Inspired, he delved into libraries to learn more about this era. Later, during high school, Rapsis pursued music studies and even ventured into filmmaking, although he eventually chose a career as a newspaper reporter due to limited opportunities for movie composers. However, his passion for silent films never waned. One pivotal moment occurred when he performed live music for "Phantom of the Opera" at Manchester's Palace Theatre, marking the beginning of his current journey. Now, using a digital synthesizer, Rapsis crafts fitting musical scores for each scene of silent films, ranging from thrilling chases to tender romances. He presents around 100 shows annually, showcasing comedies featuring stars like Buster Keaton, and aims to introduce new audiences to this timeless art form.

From grand theaters to intimate settings like the "Blazing Star Grange" in Danbury, Rapsis performs with remarkable versatility. His repertoire includes over 400 shows conducted in diverse locations, including high school cafeterias and nursing homes. Beyond his cinematic pursuits, Rapsis serves as the executive director of the Aviation Museum of New Hampshire, balancing two passions effectively.

As an advocate for silent films, Rapsis emphasizes their communal viewing experience, contrasting it with today's solitary movie-watching habits. He highlights the universal emotions conveyed through these films, making them relatable to contemporary audiences.

Looking ahead, Rapsis aspires to continue exposing newer generations to silent movies while dedicating more time to composing music, fulfilling a lifelong dream.

On a designated Thursday evening in May, the Flying Monkey Movie House in Plymouth will host a special screening of the 1928 classic "Speedy," featuring comedian Harold Lloyd, accompanied by Rapsis's live music. For further details, interested parties can visit flyingmonkeynh.com.

For additional insights into Rapsis's world, explore silentfilmlivemusic.blogspot.com.

Through Jeff Rapsis's efforts, silent films are gaining renewed appreciation. His dedication bridges the gap between past and present, reminding us of the power of shared experiences and the enduring appeal of storytelling.

As a journalist observing Rapsis's endeavors, one cannot help but admire how he single-handedly breathes life into forgotten treasures. His work underscores the importance of preserving cultural heritage and demonstrates that innovation can coexist with tradition. By creating dynamic musical scores tailored to each film, Rapsis transforms static images into immersive narratives, proving that art transcends time. His story inspires others to pursue passions relentlessly and find creative ways to share them with the world.