Guitarist-Composer-Programmer

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: If I am composing for a game, I will typically play through the parts of the game that are complete and take notes on what could work. Then I'll start working out the overall sound or ensemble. Sometimes, I'll have a base ensemble and I'll change or add a few instruments to get a sound more fitting to the level. If the client wants a full orchestral score, then it's a matter of deciding how to orchestrate the melodies and harmonies that I've written for a particular section of the game/film. I enjoy feedback, whether it's good or constructive. Good feedback helps me ensure that we get a high quality score. So, I'll usually put a sketch together and run it by the dev or director and see if they like the direction. That way, changes are made early in the process and less time is wasted. From there, I'll do the orchestration, mixing and preliminary mastering and send it for approval. This of course is all project dependent so this process may look different for each project.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: I have a custom built PC that's meant for both music creation, as well as gaming and visual editing and game design. I built it this way so I can test music inside the game spaces without things grinding to a halt. Depending on the soundtrack, I typically work in Ableton Live. I have a ton of plugins and high level VSTis that I utilize to make the best sounding score that I can. It is constantly getting better as well. Sometimes, tracks need guitar, or I'm recording guitar for my personal projects, and that setup is more intense. I use my Kemper Profiler->mixer->Focusrite Clarett 2Pre->Ableton. My workspace is lined with about 10 guitars hanging on the wall, all with different uses depending on the sound that I'm going for. I have a boatload of pedals and a really clean power supply for the smoothest sound I can get.

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

A: This list could be endless, so I will keep it short and just focus on one or two. I'm a huge fan of Danny Elfman and his work in film and video games, as well as his releases with Oingo Boingo. Another is Darren Korb (Hades, Transistor). His work is amazing and I really enjoy the choices he makes, musically.

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

A: I primarily do soundtrack work! That includes a lot of tasks, currently. I compose, arrange, orchestrate, mix, master, and program everything. I've also occasionally hired other musicians when the budget allows for it, but it's mainly a one person gig.