Michael Bearden Returns as Music Director for the 98th Academy Awards

With the 98th Academy Awards set to take place at The Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood, anticipation is building over who will take home an Oscar. Beyond the awards themselves, the music of the evening, helmed for the second consecutive year by Michael Bearden, is a key element of the show.

Bearden on Returning to the Oscars

Keyboardist, arranger, conductor, and composer Michael Bearden spoke with ESSENCE about his role as music director for the 98th Academy Awards, his collaboration with executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan, and the preparation involved in the event.

The Importance of a Live Orchestra

Bearden expressed his enthusiasm for the continued use of a live orchestra at the Oscars, noting that some shows have moved away from live music. He praised his orchestra as “the best musicians in the world,” emphasizing the excitement of working with them.

A Bespoke Approach to Music

Bearden explained that his approach to music direction is tailored to each event. This year’s theme for the Oscars is “human connection, human touch, and humanity,” and the music will reflect these themes throughout the ceremony.

Preparation and Curation

Bearden began preparing for the 98th Academy Awards shortly after the conclusion of the 97th Academy Awards in 2025. He creates a “musical glance book,” collecting pieces of music that might be suitable for the telecast, while maintaining the Oscars’ tradition of “elegance and posh and grandeur.”

Curating Energy in the Orchestra

Bearden focuses on curating not only skilled musicians but also those who bring a positive energy and vibe to the orchestra. He believes this energy is crucial for eliciting emotion from the audience.

Live Performances of Nominated Songs

Two of the five nominees for Best Song – “Golden” from KPop Demon Hunters and “I Lied to You” from Sinners – will be performed live during the ceremony. Bearden highlighted the special quality of live music, emphasizing its organic and in-the-moment nature, and the opportunity for audiences to experience the songs directly from their creators.

Balancing Tradition and Modernity

Bearden described his ability to balance the elegance of the Oscars with a modern flair as a skill honed over years of working with numerous artists (over 530 to date). He uses discernment to determine what musical combinations are appropriate, striving for a blend of tradition and contemporary sounds.

Collaboration and Creative Control

Bearden noted a collaborative relationship with executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan, who are enthusiastic about music and provide input on musical selections. Whereas, they also trust Bearden’s musical expertise.

The Reality of Rehearsal Time

Bearden acknowledged that rehearsal time for the Oscars is limited due to the complexity of the show and the many elements that need to be coordinated. While he has extensive experience with artists like Lady Gaga and Michael Jackson, where months of rehearsal were standard, the Oscars allow for only a limited amount of preparation time. He looks forward to the start of the show, where the performance comes to life in the moment.