ON MUSIC COMPOSITION

"One of the greatest joys in life for me is that of engaging in a creative project, solving challenges I've not met before.  As artists, we draw on our own unique colour palettes to paint a picture and, thankfully, there is never just one right way to do that. Creativity is blending collective experience with a hunger for the unknown.  As famous composer Aaron Copeland once suggested, the only way to move forward into the unknown is "to leave one's ego and self judgement outside the room." Visual media lends itself well to this process as we, the composer, can become what we see on screen, leaving our 'other' self outside until such time as its opinion is invited.

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TEAM EFFORT

Film score creation is a team sport. I thoroughly enjoy working within a team or group to reach a given goal. BEN LEGGETT, (above), is an invaluable asset to my process as a music editor, engineer, sound designer, and partner in crime where soundtracks are involved. It's also good to have his valued second opinion when needed! A film or television production excels when all participants are allowed to shine while still maintaining respect and regard for one another. Trusted team players like Ben and Peter Cliche (aforementioned) are not easy to come by in my world. When you find them, you hold onto them!

TOOLS OF THE TRADE

A composer must become one with his gear. With all the tools and instruments I have at my disposal, it's easy to become overwhelmed with possibilities. It's for this reason that every project requires a block of time to develop a palette of sounds and textures. The choices are informed by the director's or producer's comments and vision ahead of time. It also takes discipline and a good deal of organization to manage your options so you can find them again in a pinch.

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THE SPIRIT OF COOPERATION

My job isn't finished with the last written note. I'll go where ever I'm needed to insure the music stems translate properly at their final destination. It's important to remain open to the delivery spec of any mix facility downstream. I want to help make their job as easy and enjoyable as possible. The spirit of cooperation can make all the difference to the final soundtrack.