About Song of Sunset
Preserving the Stories Behind the Culture That Shapes Us
Song of Sunset is a documentary film and live music project initiative based in Bend, Oregon, dedicated to preserving the people, places, and stories that shape Pacific Northwest culture.
Founded by filmmaker, musician, and producer Brian Craig Hinderberger, Song of Sunset combines documentary storytelling, live performances, and community gatherings to create experiences that celebrate human creativity in an increasingly digital world.
The project was established with a simple belief: the stories behind culture are often as important as the culture itself.
Through documentary films, live events, interviews, and musical performances, Song of Sunset explores the creative communities, cultural movements, historic places, and individuals whose contributions have helped shape the Pacific Northwest.
The project combines short documentary film screenings, live music performances, and conversations with artists, filmmakers, historians, and cultural contributors.
The event brings together audiences from across the Pacific Northwest as a destination experience to celebrate the region's creative legacy.
Documentary Films
MissionSong of Sunset exists to preserve stories that might otherwise be forgotten. The project focuses on documenting creative spaces, cultural traditions, artists, musicians, storytellers, and communities whose work contributes to the identity of the Pacific Northwest. By combining film, music, and in-person experiences, Song of Sunset seeks to create a living archive for future generations.
Recognition
The Song of Sunset documentary series has received recognition from film festivals and independent film organizations, including selections, finalist honors, and awards from regional and international festivals. Song of Sunset was also awarded a grant from the Bend Cultural Tourism Fund in 2026.
Over 18 selections, 5 time award winners, 6 semi-finalist awards, 1 honorable mention.
Community Partnerships
Song of Sunset collaborates with cultural organizations, filmmakers, musicians, businesses, and tourism partners throughout Oregon and the Pacific Northwest.
Partners and supporters have included organizations such as Oregon Film, the Bend Cultural Tourism Fund, Silver Moon Brewing, Waypoint Hotel, and other regional collaborators.
As part of this commitment, Song of Sunset: Underground will donate 5% of net event profits to HÚE (Hearts Unknown Education), a Bend-based nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting youth mental health through creativity, community, and artistic expression.
HÚE provides free creative wellness programs that help young people process anxiety, depression, and life's challenges through art, music, self-expression, and meaningful human connection. Their work creates safe spaces where young people can build confidence, find belonging, and discover healthy outlets for emotional growth.
By supporting HÚE, Song of Sunset extends its mission beyond preserving stories from the past and invests in the next generation of artists, creators, and storytellers who will shape the future of the Pacific Northwest.
Founder
Brian Craig Hinderberger is an Oregon-based filmmaker, musician, and producer. His work focuses on documentary storytelling, music culture, community-building, and preserving stories that connect people to place.
As founder of Song of Sunset, Hinderberger continues to develop documentary films, cultural events, and regional storytelling projects throughout the Pacific Northwest.