A Maritime man has put a modern day twist on a classic black and white film.

Music director Shawn Whynot has been playing the organ for about 35 years.

The organist has created his own original soundtrack to the 1923 film The Hunchback of Notre Dame.

The black and white horror film is a silent movie. There are no words, only subtitles and music.

“I am trying to create a soundtrack that matches what is happening on the screen,” says Whynot. “If there is a fight scene or an exciting scene the music is loud and fast and if there is a romantic scene the music becomes a little more mellow.”

Whynot will debut his music Friday night at Halifax’s Bethany United Church. He’ll play the organ, while people watch the film from the pews.

Technical director Barry Paton will be there to make sure the show runs smoothly.

“At the front of the church we have a big screen, we project from behind it to maximize the light coming through, every seat in the house can be a good one,” says Paton.

Because the performance is live, Whynot will be playing for an hour and a half without stopping.

“It's kinda like a marathon runner training for a marathon. My endurance has to be there, both physically to play and also mentally to keep track with what music is coming next,” says Whynot.

Cheri Wilson watched Whynot recreate the Phantom of The Opera.

“The whole idea of being in a mystical place and having something from the past this artistic, macabre kind of nature and having the organ do so many interesting things to match the action, it's just a great combination,” says Wilson.

The new soundtrack includes pieces by Bach, Mozart, tracks from popular movies and Whynot’s original pieces.

“I love the idea of the art of improvisation and making a connection with a film maker from 80 or 90 years ago,” says Whynot.

A connection he shares with his audience, who he hopes will add to the soundtrack with a chorus of excited oohs, and awes.

With files from CTV Atlantic's Kelland Sundahl