Sakis Gouzonis, composer

Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in music?

Before I answer your first question, Frances, I would like to thank you for interviewing me. My passion for music began when I received my first electronic keyboard as a gift from my parents in 1990. This moment was transformative for me, as I immediately felt a strong connection to music and discovered my innate ability to play by ear and create original music compositions. My journey in music was also influenced by my environment and personal experiences. Growing up in Thessaloniki and later moving to Elassona, a city located at the foot of Mount Olympus, provided me with a rich cultural backdrop that fuelled my creativity.

Who or what have been the most significant influences on your musical life and career as a composer?

I have been inspired by some of the most brilliant and influential music composers in the world, such as James Horner, Vangelis, Danny Elfman and Jean-Michel Jarre. James Horner’s music compositions are known for their deep emotional impact. He had a unique ability to evoke strong feelings through his music, whether it was the epic adventure in “Braveheart,” the heart-wrenching sorrow in “Titanic,” or the sense of awe and wonder in “Avatar.” Vangelis was a pioneer in using electronic instruments to create orchestral and cinematic sounds. His ability to blend synthesizers with traditional orchestral elements created a unique and captivating musical style. His music often has a cinematic quality, transporting listeners to different worlds and times. Danny Elfman’s music compositions are known for their ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, from whimsy and joy to darkness and melancholy. His music often becomes the emotional backbone of the films he scores, enhancing the storytelling and connecting deeply with audiences. Jean-Michel Jarre is one of the pioneers of electronic music, and his innovative use of synthesizers and electronic instruments has had a profound influence on the genre. His groundbreaking albums like “Oxygène” and “Équinoxe” have set the standard for electronic music and continue to inspire musicians today.

What have been the greatest challenges/frustrations of your career so far? 

It is true that a composer’s career, while rewarding, comes with its share of frustrations and challenges. For example, I sometimes face periods where inspiration and creativity seem elusive. These creative blocks can be frustrating and impact productivity. Maintaining a balance between work and personal life can be difficult, especially when creative inspiration strikes at odd hours. This can lead to burnout if not managed properly. Identifying and reaching the right audience for my work is another significant challenge. I must often invest time and effort into promoting my music. As I grow and evolve, staying true to my artistic identity while also adapting to new trends and styles is also challenging. However, despite these frustrations and challenges, I find fulfilment and joy in my music.

How do you work? What methods do you use and how do ideas come to you?

I do not use the western system of musical notation. When I was a kid, I created my own system of musical notation, which I still use today. I find inspiration in a multitude of places, including nature, personal experiences, travel and culture, love and relationships, dreams and imagination, spirituality and philosophy, as well as everyday life. The beauty and complexity of the natural world, from serene landscapes to powerful storms, can evoke emotions and ideas that translate into music. Life events, both joyful and challenging, provide rich material for music composition. Personal stories and emotions often resonate deeply with listeners. Experiencing different cultures, traditions and landscapes has broaden my perspective and influenced my sound. New instruments, rhythms and musical styles encountered while traveling can be particularly inspiring. The complexities of human relationships – love, heartbreak, friendship and family – are timeless sources of inspiration for music. The realm of dreams and the imagination offers limitless possibilities for creativity. Personal beliefs, spiritual journeys and philosophical reflections can lead to profound and introspective music compositions. Ordinary moments and observations from daily life can be a source of inspiration. Sometimes, the simplicity of everyday experiences can lead to the most relatable and poignant music.

How would you characterise your compositional language/musical style?

I compose electronic music. Electronic music relies heavily on synthesizers and other electronic instruments to create its unique sound palette. The genre often utilizes advanced production techniques, such as sampling and sequencing, allowing for intricate and layered compositions. Electronic music encourages innovation and experimentation, with us composers constantly pushing the boundaries of sound and technology. Despite its mechanical origins, electronic music can evoke deep emotions, and offer unique soundscapes that cannot be replicated by traditional instruments. This novelty and creativity attract listeners who are looking for fresh and exciting auditory experiences. Whether through its groundbreaking sounds or emotional depth, electronic music remains a powerful and influential genre.

Of which works are you most proud?

I am proud of all the music I have composed and released since 2008. Each piece holds a special place in my heart. Given this opportunity, I would like to talk about “Anthem Of Love,” the first track of my first music album. I composed this music track because I wanted to define love in all its forms. Love is powerful enough to transform us and bring us indescribable joy. Love is patient and kind. Love never gives up. Love endures everything. Love is free and has the power to free people from all the burdens of life.

Sakis Gouzonis – Anthem Of Love

 

As a musician, what is your definition of success?

I define success in a multifaceted way, considering not just external achievements but also personal fulfilment and growth. Success is being able to create music that authentically expresses my emotions, thoughts and experiences. The ability to stay true to my artistic vision and innovate within my craft is paramount. Resonating with listeners and touching their lives through my music is a key measure of success. Whether it is providing comfort, joy or inspiration, knowing that my music has a positive impact on others is incredibly rewarding. Constantly evolving as a musician and pushing my creative boundaries is vital. Success involves continuous improvement and adaptation. Earning recognition and respect from peers, critics and the broader music community is an important aspect. This comes in the form of awards, positive reviews or simply being acknowledged for my contributions to music. Leaving a lasting legacy through my music, with compositions that stand the test of time and continue to be appreciated by future generations, is a profound measure of success. Ultimately, success is finding happiness and fulfilment in my musical journey. Enjoying the process of creating, performing and sharing music is the most important indicator of success.

What advice would you give to young or aspiring composers?

While it is beneficial to study the work of other composers, always strive to bring your own perspective to the music. Your unique experiences and emotions are what make your compositions stand out. Make sure you have a solid understanding of music theory. Once you have the foundations, you can break the rules more effectively. Expose yourself to a broad range of music genres and styles. You will gain new ideas and inspiration from places you might not expect. Classical, jazz, electronic, world music—everything has something to offer. Composing is like any other skill; the more you practice, the better you get. Set aside time every day or week to write, even if it is just a few bars. Work with other musicians and composers. Sharing your work and getting constructive criticism is invaluable. It helps you see your music from different perspectives. Music is ever-evolving. Stay curious and be open to new ideas, technologies and methods. This will keep your work fresh and innovative. Composition can be a challenging and sometimes frustrating process. Keep pushing through the tough times. Every piece, even those that don’t turn out as you hoped, contributes to your growth as a composer. And remember, above all, to enjoy the process and let your passion for music guide you.

What’s the one thing we’re not talking about in the music industry which you really feel we should be?

A pressing issue in the music industry that doesn’t get enough attention is mental health and well-being of artists. While there is a lot of focus on producing hit songs and maintaining a public image, the emotional and psychological toll that the industry can take on musicians is often overlooked. The pressures of constant touring, the need to stay relevant in a fast-paced industry, and the scrutiny of social media can lead to burnout, anxiety and depression. Many artists feel the need to maintain a facade of success and happiness, which can make it difficult for them to seek help when they need it. Addressing this issue involves creating a culture that prioritizes mental health, providing resources and support systems for artists, and encouraging open conversations about mental well-being. It is crucial to recognize that behind the music we love, there are real people with real struggles who need understanding and support.

https://www.sakisgouzonis.com