Zefan Susanto

Orchestral Music Producer

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33 Reviews (25 Verified)
Zefan Susanto on SoundBetter

Hello, I’m Zefan Music Producer, Orchestrator, and Creative Partner. With 20 years of experience in music production, I specialize in crafting emotionally rich, cinematic soundscapes that fuse contemporary Pop with orchestral depth. Since 2005, I’ve collaborated on a wide range of projects for recording artists, film, media, and live performances

If you're looking for heartfelt ballads, magical Disney-style arrangements, high-energy K-pop or C-pop, or soulful Black Gospel productions, you're on the right page.

My strength lies in translating musical vision into polished, professional results. I’ve directed and recorded full orchestral sessions in Russia, Prague, Budapest, Indonesia and some other countries, developing arrangements from the ground up or enhancing existing tracks to deliver a more immersive and cinematic sound. Whether you're aiming for a romantic flourish, epic storytelling, or something more intimate, I approach every project with musical sensitivity, precision, and emotional intent.

As technology evolves, I also integrate AI-driven tools into the production process to support orchestration, vocal processing, and creative ideation, blending human artistry with cutting-edge innovation to enhance workflow and elevate the final result.

If you’re a singer, songwriter, or artist seeking a trusted collaborator to bring your music to life with clarity, depth, and creativity, I’m here to help you SoundBetter.
Hit me up for a free short demo of my orchestration using your song let’s explore the possibilities.

Click the 'Contact' above to get in touch. Looking forward to hearing from you.

33 Reviews - 7 Repeat Clients

Endorse Zefan Susanto
  1. Review by benjamin v.
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    Working with Zefan was a great experience. He showed strong attention to detail, communicated clearly, and responded well to feedback throughout the process. I appreciated his ability to take creative direction while still adding his own unique touch to the project. The final product was exactly what I was hoping for—clean, professional, and emotionally impactful.

    I’m genuinely happy with the outcome and wouldn’t hesitate to work with him again.

  2. Review by Federico C.
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    Professionalism !!!
    Very helpful and attentive to your every request.

  3. Review by Sonya S.
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    Zefan made a cover of "Labyrinth" by Mondo Grosso for me, and we recorded vocals in studio together. Everything was an absolute pleasure! He works super fast, is efficient, reliable and above all super talented at what he does. He very quickly delivered a complete pop/orchestral mix masterpiece of the song I wanted to cover and takes direction well, intuitive to how I wanted it to sound. Will definitely be working with him again! :)

  4. Review by JB M.
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    by JB M.
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    Just finished a second track with Zefan. Top marks once again. So glad I've found this jewel of a producer. Already thinking about track No3.

  5. Review by Olga z.
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    I am so overjoyed with the production by Zefan for my song. This producer is so professional, above all, he's always very patient with me. This was my 3rd song produced by him and I can't wait to start on my 4th project with him. His professionalism makes it difficult for me to consider other producers out there, because I will keep comparing other works with his production. Working with Zefan has always been a blessing. I highly recommend him. Thank you once again Zefan. I'm so grateful.

  6. Review by JB M.
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    by JB M.
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    Absolutely loved working with Zefan. You can see that he works to a standard rather than a price. The result exceeded my expectations. Can't wait to work with him again.

  7. Review by Rudyard L.
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    Zefan doing well with this job, and I satisfied with the result. Hopefully Zefan can do a lot of music job and will success in the future.

  8. Review by Olga z.
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    Working with Zefan is always fun and exciting. I’m always looking forward to him turning my ordinary audio recording to a full blown masterpiece. I am so glad I found this producer. This is my second project with Zefan. Can’t wait to start my 3rd project with him. He always delivers on time, very patient too. Thank you so much Zefan, I highly recommend him.

    Happy customer.

  9. Review by Tian T.
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    Zefan is very talented, patient and have great passion with his career, and it’s always a mutual beneficial process to work with producer like him. He delivered the final work with full package, without my given too much detail and direction, and the work he produced is absolutely professional! Always 100% recommended for anyone who wants a professional music producer to work with!

  10. Review by Etheridge I.
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    Etheridge I.
    Zefan is an outstanding Producer , composer and arranger. Zefan is very easy to work with. He is a great communicator. Always letting me know the status and the process of my project. I can’t say enough great things about Zefan. I encourage you to consider hiring Zefan for your next project. I know I will! I highly recommend him!

  11. Review by Matt H.
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    There is no one else I would ever use for my orchestration! Zefan is an absolute professional and could not be easier to work with. He does what he says he will and always delivers files of the highest quality. Zefan always takes my music to the next level every time. There is nothing he could do better! 10/10 for Zefan

  12. Review by Tian T.
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    Zefan delivered this song with his talented piano skills and he also offers me a talented guitar player to add layers to this song! Zefan is definitely good at producing symphony-based songs and he can produce sad songs that deliver strong attention and soft sentiment. Please choose him if you find same kind of songs to be produced!

  13. Review by Tian T.
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    Zefan is very talented at making this song alive and fresh! there's several turnaround and each time he's delivering me a better work! He's very patient and willing to teach you a lot at the same time. An awesome producer to work with, you'll never got wrong!

  14. Review by Phil
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    by Phil
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    Thanks to Zefan for a great result and a quick turnaround time. Looking forward to working with him again.

  15. Review by Matt H.
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    Zefan is an absolute pro and a pleasure to work with. He is courteous, professional and extremely talented. I could not be more happy with the result. No changes needed, he got it perfect on his first try. I use him for all my orchestration work!

  16. Review by Phil
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    by Phil
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    Zefan is great. We discussed ideas throughout and he delivered a fantastic arrangement and production of my song. I am very pleased with it and very much look forward to working with him again.

  17. Review by Cokro G.
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    2nd project with Zefan going smooth and great. With very limited time, he’s able to create a ballad motivational song that I requested. He’s also very helpful and generous for any feedback I need. Thank you Zefan for your great work. Good luck with everything.

  18. Review by Etheridge I.
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    Zefan,
    Is a phenomenal arranger/ producer. This is my 3 rd project with him. Each project working with him is a wonderful experience. I have full confidence in trusting Zefan . I highly recommend him. Very talented young man. Easy to work with!

  19. Review by Cokro G.
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    I've known Zefan for years, and have done several projects with him. I love the way he creates the music and interpreted my vision towards the final result. His versatile music style carter my need in various music styles, from touching ballad to motivating rock. Not to mention the fast response and turn over is another plus point to hire. I can surely recommend him for your next project. Thank you Zefan and I'll soon hire you again for the next project. Stay tuned.

  20. Review by Linh V.
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    Working with Zefan was the most MAGICAL carpet ride. He took my love song and brought it to LIFE, adding the magic I needed but did not know existed.

    Listening to our track on repeat, I’m taken to a whole new world each time. Who wouldn’t fall in love with the beautiful string arrangements and delicate details of the entire orchestra?

    Zefan is undeniably kind and talented, his passion for music reflected in every piece he touches. I highly recommend working with him on your next project.

Interview with Zefan Susanto

  1. Q: Tell us about a project you worked on you are especially proud of and why. What was your role?

  2. A: One project I’m especially proud of is a gospel single featuring the Czech Strings Orchestra, it was truly a dream come true to collaborate with one of the world’s finest symphonic ensembles. Another highlight was a single recorded with the Budapest Symphony Orchestra. I served as both the music producer and orchestrator for these projects, and had the privilege of attending both recording sessions in Prague and Budapest. Witnessing my arrangements performed live by such world-class musicians was an unforgettable and deeply rewarding experience.

  3. Q: What are you working on at the moment?

  4. A: At the moment, music production is no longer my full-time focus, as I’m currently running a food business based in Cambridge, UK. Because of that, I’m selective with the projects I take on but I’m always open to working on meaningful collaborations that align with my style and schedule.

  5. Q: Analog or digital and why?

  6. A: I’ve worked with both. Back in the late ‘90s and early 2000s, analog was still the standard due to limitations in computing power. But today, digital is my go-to for its portability, efficiency, and affordability. That said, for certain post-production processes like mastering, analog still has its charm. In short: production = digital, mastering = sometimes analog.

  7. Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?

  8. A: I promise fast communication, a creative and collaborative spirit, and results that meet, or exceed expectations.

  9. Q: What questions do customers most commonly ask you? What's your answer?

  10. A: Pricing. My answer? Let’s talk. I’m flexible to an extent but I know my value. As long as the material is strong and we’re a good fit, I’m open to collaboration

  11. Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?

  12. A: People assume I’m a singer or performer. I do enjoy singing, but, let’s just say I’m better behind the scenes I’m here to bring out the best in your artistry not showcase mine.

  13. Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

  14. A: First, the deadline. If I can’t meet it, I’ll let you know right away or recommend someone else. I value stress-free, quality-focused work. Second, would you like a short demo? I often offer a rough preview usually a verse or chorus to help clients visualize the production. It’s an effective way to turn interest into action.

  15. Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

  16. A: Shortlist providers whose style and skill set match your vision. Reach out to each of them, compare pricing and timelines, and ultimately choose someone you're comfortable collaborating with. Clear, open communication is just as crucial as the project itself. A good producer should be able to deeply understand your ideas and translate them into musical language, this interpretive ability is as essential as technical skills.

  17. Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?

  18. A: Water filter Fan Lighter Duvet Torch Let’s be real , this is about survival, not studio time! I’m not bringing my interface or headphones to a desert island

  19. Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?

  20. A: My love for music began at age 3, playing songs by ear on an old organ. We had to sell it later due to financial hardship, but my passion never left. I practiced on a small keyboard with limited features, training my ear and learning music theory. By 10, I was experimenting with multi-track recording using a double-deck cassette, a very analog version of what I do now! I began exploring digital production before YouTube existed, learning through trial and error until platforms like YouTube helped me refine my craft around 2007–2008. I’ve been working professionally since 2005 about 20 years of doing what I love.

  21. Q: How would you describe your style?

  22. A: Versatile with a focus on romantic, magical, cinematic, or groove-based sounds. I’m confident delivering timeless ballads like Whitney Houston or Celine Dion, or orchestral Disney-style music like Aladdin, Frozen, Mulan, and Beauty and the Beast. I can elevate your song into something grand and cinematic think Sam Smith Writing's On The Wall. Or want to reimagine All of Me by John Legend with lush orchestration? Let’s do it. Prefer funk or gospel? I’ve got you covered with Stevie Wonder or Kirk Franklin-inspired grooves. Let’s create something amazing!

  23. Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?

  24. A: I’d love to work with artists who truly appreciate the process — both creatively and professionally. That means understanding my workflow and respecting the agreed terms. I don’t work for free or "exposure" because, as we all know, exposure doesn’t pay the bills. One artist I’ve especially enjoyed working with is Tian, a talented C-Pop singer who knows exactly what he wants and collaborates with intention. Shout out to you, Tian let’s work together again soon!

  25. Q: Can you share one music production tip?

  26. A: Absolutely! communication and workflow are key. Since I often work with a team of co-producers, session players, and mix/mastering engineers, clarity is everything. Provide references, they communicate your vision better than words. A clear structure and organized workflow help avoid mistakes and keep the project moving efficiently.

  27. Q: What type of music do you usually work on?

  28. A: I frequently produce orchestrated ballads, magical Disney-style pieces, cinematic themes, and funky arrangements featuring piano or brass.

  29. Q: What's your strongest skill?

  30. A: Creating romantic, intimate, or cinematic string arrangements that bring depth and emotion to a song.

  31. Q: What do you bring to a song?

  32. A: I can build a production from scratch, just give me a topline, lyrics, and three references. I’ll tailor a custom arrangement that fits your vision. I also specialize in layering orchestral arrangements over existing productions, adding that cinematic touch that takes a track to the next level.

  33. Q: What's your typical work process?

  34. A: I begin by asking for a draft/demo and three reference tracks. I then create a basic mock-up — usually solo piano and lead instrument to share the core structure (melody, chords, intro/outro, etc.). After feedback, I build the rhythmic foundation (bass, drums, guitars), followed by orchestration if needed. Once approved, I deliver the full production.

  35. Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?

  36. A: David Foster, Kirk Franklin, and the Disney Studio Orchestra have had a major influence on my work.

  37. Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.

  38. A: Production for songwriters with a topline but no arrangement, producers unhappy with their current version, or artists needing orchestral layering. Sometimes I take full control from concept to final product.

  39. Q: Is there anyone on SoundBetter you know and would recommend to your clients?

  40. A: Of course, I've done a lot of work with a talented Indonesian singer Pritta Kartika, a great gospel singer Josiah Ruff, a Kenny G & Dave Koz sound-alike saxophonist Jimmy Koentjoro, a great mixing engineer Stefanus Wayanartha, Amazing topline writer Mariami, and the talented UK based producer and songwriter Matt Hughes who's also my best friends, you can find them all at SoundBetter and trust me you'll not regret it.

  41. Q: What do you like most about your job?

  42. A: When I can surprise my clients that their song/project could be that great. I always love to make my clients happy, encouraging them, sharing the information I have or anything they want me to do. Some massages? Unfortunately no =D

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2021 Demo Reel

Terms Of Service

Average 1-2 Hour maximum response time (London time), 2-3 days turn around, minimum of 1 week to complete, 1 major revision and 1 minor revision

GenresSounds Like
  • David Foster
  • Disney Studio Orchestra
  • Kirk Franklin
Gear Highlights
  • Apogee Duet 2
  • M4 MacBook
  • Bunch of Kontakt Library
  • Bunch of Virtual Instruments
  • Cubase Pro 14
More Photos
More SamplesProducer, Orchestrator
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