Film Composer+Songwriter+Lyric

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

A: I worked on an original musical entitled, "Remember Jericho - The Musical". I was the composer, lyricist, co-book writer, and co-director on this project, so it definitely was a huge undertaking which took nearly 2 years to complete. It was encouraging to see the ways audiences were touched by this show for the glory of God. It is currently touring churches as a ministry across Southern California, and about to release its Cast Album on all streaming platforms.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: I am currently working on my next musical, multiple orchestration compositions, and string arrangements.

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

A: From those that don't understand music, the biggest misconception is that composition is easy. Is it not. However, it is incredibly fufilling and something I would not trade for any occupation in the world.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: What is your vision for this project, and what is the primary emotion that you wish to convey? Every piece of music has a story, and that is the goal of every piece I compose.

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

A: Composers like me want to hear your vision, and they want to help you achieve that vision. Thank you very much!

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

A: I started as a pianist and filmmaker, but moved into composition in 2021 when I scored a low budget feature film. I have sense been composing for a myriad of different projects and styles.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: I would describe is as cinematic and dramatic. I tend to be very emotional about music, and my music therefore represents that.

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

A: I would love to work with Jeremy Jordan on a musical at some point in my life. I love his ability to simultaneous bring out the specific emotions of his character while mastering control and power of his high register.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: When working on samples in EQ, increase the top end of the mid strings just a touch, and decrease the levels at around 400 to add a heightened sense of realism to the strings.

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

A: I typically work in cinematic soundtracks, mixing a full orchestra sound with world music and synth elements when applicable.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: Melody writing. I know to create creative and captivating melodies that can hook a listener and are instantly recognizable and memorable for the audience.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: The thing I bring most to a song is an understanding of story and the ability to put that story into music and/or lyrics. My father received his degree in film from the USC film school, and I grew up most of my life learning from the best film directors and composers ever on how to craft a story. I bring this out through unique, memorable melodies, and crafting those melodies throughout a film or work to embody the struggle and characteristics of the principle character. I also use intentional instrumentation from across the world to give a unique sound to each sound that fits each story.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: No matter what the project is, I always start with story. What are the emotions that need to be conveyed through this music, and what story needs to be told? Once that is determined, I work on melody, crafting the best melody possible for a particular story. Then, I nail down the harmony to support that story, before lastly putting it into orchestration on my DAW. Once I have that file, I do a final mix and master, and render the project.

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

A: I have been inspired by Hans Zimmer, and his ability to create a unique soundscape for each project he does and his creativity for using world instruments and non-instrumental sounds into his compositions. I am also inspired greatly by John Williams, a model of professional consistency, artistic and creative mastery, and iconic melodic composition.

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

A: Usually, I am most called upon for completely original compositions, whether it be for original films, musicals, or audio books/auido dramas.