Tell us about yourself. When did you start composing?
I started composing at 15, after hearing Michael Giacchino’s score for Up. That soundtrack deeply moved me, and it made me realize I wanted to become a film composer. I later earned my degree in film scoring and composition from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco.
When did you realize that you want to write soundtracks?
The moment I heard Up, I knew I didn’t just want to write music—I wanted to tell stories through music. That’s when the idea of film scoring became a real goal for me.
What movies were your early passions and influences in becoming a composer? Do you feel that your work was inspired by the history of the cinema or world culture?
Films like Up, Star Wars, and E.T. were huge influences—Giacchino and John Williams really shaped my musical imagination. I’m also inspired by the emotional depth of cinema history and world culture, and I enjoy blending different cultural elements into my music.
Do you have any preferences for musical instruments when composing?
I gravitate toward strings and piano because of their emotional range, but I also love mixing orchestral and electronic textures depending on the story.
Mind to share your creative process?
I usually start by understanding the story and characters. Then I sketch themes on the piano and build from there—sometimes with live instruments, sometimes in MIDI. I always focus on what best supports the film.
How do you describe your typical work week?
My week usually includes composing, recording, mixing, and meeting with directors. It’s a mix of creative and technical work, and no two weeks are ever quite the same.
What is the most challenging part of your work? And what makes you feel satisfied?
Meeting tight deadlines while staying creative can be tough. But nothing beats the feeling of seeing a scene come to life with music—it’s incredibly fulfilling.
