Who or what inspired you to take up composing, and pursue a career in music?
From an early age I’ve felt the influence music has had in supporting and telling stories, particularly in film. I later played in bands but always loved the thought process and challenges with interpreting and applying creative ideas to images.
Who or what have been the most significant influences on your musical life and career as a composer?
There are many inspiring factors. Looking back particular influences in film would include the marriage between Steven Spielberg and John Williams. Growing up, their films were such a huge part of my childhood and the music was such and integral part both thematically and emotionally. It’s still with me now.
What have been the greatest challenges of your career so far?
Coming up with the initial ideas. Quite often the interpretation and language barriers, when working with predominately visual artists, can also be a challenge but over time I’ve leant how to deal with this far better than I used to. Having time and communication is vital in setting you up for the best possible start.
What are the special challenges and pleasures of working on film and tv scores?
Every job varies so much and each one offers it’s individual challenges, which is genuinely part of the pleasure also, and how to approach it musically. Starting with the initial concept and exploring options, pace, styles, emotions etc is a great process.
Tell us more about your EP Rediscover; Inspired by soundtracks.
I wanted to explore the orchestra and electronic/contemporary elements used in modern scoring but without the restrictions of film.
Inspired by contemporary composers who use imagery, such as Ludovico Einaudi and Thomas Bergersen to name a couple. The EP was recorded with the Bratislava Symphony Orchestra and has performances from MC Kayjee and mixed and mastered by DJ and Engineer Jason Ellis. Like many soundtracks I wanted to incorporate an amalgamation of textures styles and not be limited with specific stereotypes.
How would you characterise your compositional/musical language?
It’s a tricky one particularly from a commercial perspective as you can get asked to write in many varying styles, but overall I seem to gravitate towards the orchestra. I’m constantly in awe of the power, colours and dynamic range it brings.
How do you work?
I lock myself away and consume myself with elements for the project I’m working on.
I’m a guitar player by trade but compose most things on keyboards through the computer.
As a musician, what is your definition of success?
There are varying aspects but being sought after for your ability particularly in a very competitive and saturated market is definitely gratifying. Personally, being able to chose projects and having enough money to invest in your own ventures.
What do you consider to be the most important ideas and concepts to impart to aspiring musicians?
Keep writing, especially when your’e quiet, this will enable you to build and develop your voice as well as learning how to work to your strengths. When jobs arrive you don’t always have the time to experiment and try ideas, so having a good developed understanding will help.
Network and patience.
Neil Myers EP Rediscover is released on 7 June.
With two decades of experience Neil’s work has seen him score in a multitude of genres including music for film, documentaries, sports, promos, branding, trailers, commercials and orchestra.
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