Wow, what a crazy year 2023 was. So much happened I’m surprised I made it through alive, but I did it! I survived and I finally graduated with my Bachelor’s Degree!
Lost in Snow: Senior Composition Recital
Here is a recording of my senior music composition performance where I debuted many pieces I wrote during my time as a student and also showcased my skills as a horn performer.
recent Arrangements
Every Soul is Free to Lead Kindly Light
Was asked to compose an arrangement of a hymnal of my choice and perform it for a local sacrament meeting. This piece is written for Horn solo and 2-hand Piano. It is a unique blend between the hymns: Lead Kindly Light and Know This That Every Soul is Free.
Carol of Noel
Was commissioned by a family member to arrange the First Noel for Piano accompaniment and Ocarina. I wanted to spice it up and make it more of an upbeat carol
recent Film works
The Escape
I admit that I have been very lazy with the music upload for this project. The video and music were completed back in April 2023, but I never got around to posting the soundtrack solo.
Fight Theme from 25
Finally got around to posting this on my channel separate from the video I directed. It’s a short piece but showcases my basic ability to compose for fight scenes.
across the dales
Thank you all so much for supporting me in this project. The story does not end here though! I recently finished the final edits to the script, which can be read here:
Even after the big debut of my Video/Music project: Across the Dales, I still wanted to ensure that all my music was uploaded. These are among the last of the soundtrack for the project, and as far as I’m aware, I only have one piece left to write. I had to cut a lot from the ending to make my deadline. The final piece I have to finish and remake is: Vanity’s Tomb, and the last Piece I have to sit down and write from scratch to finish off the soundtrack is: Awakening.
I was provided a lot of feedback by the audience members and was informed of some major plot holes and contrivances I didn’t realize. I have now fixed them and believe this story is finally complete! I am underway with working on the sequel story, which is called: At Dales Heart. I’m also working on trying to pitch this project and get the story turned into a feature-length, animated film!
Life Update:
Well, I never ended up making it to Chicago. Despite my best attempts, I ended up finding work in Philadelphia, PA. I’m not too disappointed. I was able to find a new home to settle in and find work in one of the major cities in the US I had on my list. I’m still working on growing my music and trying to connect with new networks to find new opportunities. I just joined the Philadelphia Orchestra Society and my first reading is on Friday. Hoping to make some friends and network to get my music performed!
As for studying in Japan, this is still my life goal. Their music style is just so unique that I want to tap into that style and bring it back with me to the US. I am currently in the process of paying back the credit card debt I accumulated while finishing school, and I’m trying to get my car fully paid off by this year (New Years resolution).
And of course, my student loans begin this June. Once my finances are under control, I’ll take the initiative to take Japanese lessons and look into TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) as a means of financing an extended trip like this.
In the meantime though, for 2024 I will be focusing on my finances and making new music. I want to learn Studio One Artist and output some work from it. I also downloaded a new software called Wallpaper Engine, so maybe I can learn to make more interesting video backgrounds for my music!
Thank you to all for following me through my growth as a composer. I could not be here without my support, family, friends, networks, and followers. I tip my hat to you all. I plan on 2024 being a restful recovery both for my wallet and for my mental well-being.
*This is a reconstruction and reupload. Original article uploaded on January 11th, 2024