When an American TV commercial goes into post-production, more often than not, the director’s voice is cut out of the mix. To reassert that directorial vision, producers and composers at New York music shop Q Department have started an after-work event that’s rising in profile.

“I’ve realized so much more from specific directors about sound and how sound and music work than I could have ever learned from any music school,” says Q founder Drazen Bosnjak. “Every director has a unique way of connecting the music palette in his head and I deeply believe that it’s so different from the way musicians or DJs do it.”

A year ago, the company launched Q Department presents The Director Series, an invite-only party in which directors curate the music. Part networking opportunity, part piss-up, the eight events have built up significant buzz thanks to the involvement of established and emerging directors, including Tom Kuntz, Joseph Kosinski, Rian Johnson and Keith Schofield.

The format is open-ended. Directors are asked to make a playlist but some opted to take the concept further. Anonymous Content’s Mike Figgis, a trumpet and bass player who often scores his own films, spent a week in Q Department’s studios rehearsing for a performance. During Kuntz’ session, Michel Gondry and writer Jonathan Ames rolled in unannounced and, without saying a word, the Science of Sleep director sat down at the drum kit and began jamming along to the music.

Another time, producer Jacqueline Bosnjak manned the door herself after spotting two bodyguards for former presidential daughter Barbara Bush, who arrived with a director friend. “They had the perimeter completely locked down,” she says. “They told me, ‘Listen honey, as long as she’s here having a good time, your party is staying open.’”

That unexpected mix of guests is part of the appeal. Creatives, producers, directors and editors can rub elbows with journalists, composers, indie bands and – as of February – financiers and Hollywood agents. Earlier this year, The William Morris Endeavor agency approached Q Department about using the event to build buzz around rising directing talent.

The next Q Department Director Series takes place on March 18 with The Ebeling Group’s Marco Brambilla. The Sweet Shop’s Mr. Hide will host in April and Sonny’s Fredrik Bond will curate an evening in May. Q

www.qdepartment.com