Composer: Film/TV/Ads

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

A: this past summer summer I wrote music for two nationally aired television shows. I also played piano tracks that were featured in the music of the 2022 World Cup opening and closing ceremonies.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: I'm currently working on developing multiple software instruments and releasing my own music.

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

A: Greg Johnson and Kyle Kirkpatrick are both incredible composers that I would recommend to anyone. They are a regular source of inspiration and advice.

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

A: I began classical piano lessons as a child and have been composing since about 10 years old. I got into audio production in college. After graduation I freelanced as a music director and did subcontract work for some LA composers. I now music direct at a large church in Texas and continue doing everything from chart prep to audio production for Nashville and LA professionals.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Focus on finding a few great sounds rather than laying too many elements, which can clutter the mix rather than making it interesting.

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

A: I work on soundtracks, orchestrations, and sound design projects. I often record live piano parts for other composers.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: My strongest skill is arranging. My 25+ years of musical training allow me to hear and sketch ideas quickly, and I have a good sense of what musical elements are needed in a piece.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: I have a Mac Studio M1 Ultra, an acoustically treated room, two powered Mackie monitors with a sub, a Nord Stage 2, and an AKAI 88-key midi keyboard. I also have a full-size grand piano with a stereo-mic setup for recording.

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

A: I would take my laptop, iPad Pro, H4n field recorder, a small midi keyboard, and AT headphones.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: I love both, though studies have shown most people can't tell the difference. Digital is how I create and consume most music because it's much more accessible.

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

A: I will always do my best to match your vision. If it's not right the first time I'm not afraid to go back to the drawing board.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: I love the opportunity to be creative and collaborate with other talented people.

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

A: I'm known by many as a piano player (which I love), but really my passion is composition.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: I usually ask what style they are looking for, how much creative freedom they are giving, and possibly examples of similar work that inspired them.

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

A: Try to start with a good idea of what you'd like to come away with, and be responsive with questions or if additional material is needed.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: I lean towards piano driven tracks with a classical-meets-soundtrack style. I love using electronic elements along with orchestral.

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

A: I would love to work with a film composer like Thomas Newman. I love the unique sound he has, and his music always touches the soul. As an artist I would love work with a band like Coldplay. Their sound is always evolving and there's tons of creativity on the production side, but the songs are always strong too.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: I bring a lifetime of musical experience ranging from classical to pop. I have an ear for creating sonic space around vocals because I've accompanied singers for years. I know how to flesh out small musical ideas into full pieces.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: I like to get as much detail as I can from clients before starting. Better to have more information about what you have in mind than less, although I'm happy to take the creative lead as well. I usually create rough outlines of the piece first, either with a piano track or something similar. Then I fill everything in with instruments that fit the style of what I'm working on.

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

A: Composers that inspire me: Thomas Newman, Hans Zimmer, Alan Silvestri. Producers that inspire: Ian Kirkpatrick, Fede Vindver, Brian Eno.

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

A: Most of the work I do involves recording piano, composing/editing audio and creating charts for people.