Bernard Herrmann was an influential American composer and conductor, best known for his film scores. Born on June 29, 1911, in New York City, he gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s, collaborating with renowned directors like Alfred Hitchcock. His distinctive style often featured innovative orchestration and psychological depth. Herrmann's most famous works include the scores for films such as Psycho, Vertigo, and North by Northwest. He was known for his ability to enhance the emotional impact of a film through music. Herrmann's contributions to cinema have left a lasting legacy, influencing generations of composers.