Joseph Carl Breil (1870–1926) was an American composer and conductor, primarily known for his contributions to film music and classical compositions. He is best remembered for his work on the 1915 silent film "The Birth of a Nation," for which he composed an influential score that helped establish the role of music in cinema. Breil's musical style reflected a blend of late Romanticism and early 20th-century techniques, often incorporating lush orchestrations and thematic development. Besides his work in film, he composed various orchestral pieces, chamber music, and operas, with notable works including "The Legend of the Wishing Stone" and "The Sphinx." His impact on music lies in his pioneering efforts to integrate classical music with the emerging film industry, setting precedent for future film composers. Breil's scores contributed to the emotional depth and narrative storytelling in silent films, influencing how music was perceived in cinematic contexts. Although his reputation waned after his death, his contributions to film scoring have been increasingly recognized in contemporary discussions about the history of film music.