Chaucer’s Books will host Peter M. Bernstein, author of “Elmer Bernstein: Film Composer: An Authorized Biography,” for an in-store book talk and signing, 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 22 at 3321 State St. Santa Barbara.

The book offers a behind-the-scenes look at the life and music of Elmer Bernstein, the legendary Hollywood composer, as told by his son, who interweaves exclusive interviews, oral histories not otherwise available, estate archival materials, and personal experiences.

Elmer Bernstein was the only person to be nominated for an Academy Award in every decade from the 1950s to the 2000s.

Over a career spanning 54 years, he wrote landmark scores in myriad genres — epics, jazz, westerns, dramas and comedies.

His his credits read like list of the greatest films of his time: “The Ten Commandments,” “The Magnificent Seven,” “To Kill a Mockingbird,” “The Man With the Golden Arm,” “The Great Escape,” “Ghostbusters.”

Elmer Bernstein lived a colorful life: he was a first generation American; he was blacklisted; and he was a fearless advocate for film music not afraid to take on anyone in pages of trade papers.

The book looks at many of his landmark scores in depth, collaborations with various producers and directors, and his success in navigating the rough and tumble of Hollywood.

In 1977 Elmer Bernstein moved with his family to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles. He was looking for a quiet place where he could write music in peace. From then until his retirement in 2002 he wrote and recorded 65 film scores, 12 TV series and several concert works.