I love the sentiment, and so wish more people realised this. Unfortunately, my experience has been the opposite when I tried to get my foot in the door. Directors/developers preferred the sounds/music that emulated their favourite existing works, and trying to do anything remotely different never got anywhere. Perhaps that's more how the indie sector works, or maybe I'm just bitter. I still think composers should take note! This is a great video.
I think this is a very good point. I kind of touched on this (albeit maybe a little too politely) at the end was that we did something highly original to get the Alien Isolation job, the end result was strong but not world changing (I suspect had it been we would have won that BAFTA). We’re all slaves to temp and have to work to hire to pay the bills. But if we don’t develop our own voice and work hard at that there is little to draw on when we move up the ladder and start working with people with greater vision, sense of adventure and a real desire to do something new. My experience is directors want to push the boundaries but are often shackled by the studio or the commissioning broadcaster, by test audiences and by fear. But remember the director will hire you the producer will pay you, so your art should be adventurous your craft reliable. Thanks for your comment.
I'm in sales and I have been for over 20 years. I was an actor for 15 years. I started my own video production company and I went out of business after a year. I was an awkward and shy teenager that couldn't mumble 8 simple words to a girl like, "Do you want to go out this weekend?" I've heard every, "NO!" in the book and I learned a lesson that Christian is trying to drive home. Example: When I pitch for a sale with just facts and features about my product I'm successful about 27% of time. When I pitch a sale with zero facts and features and personal examples of how "I" use my products I'm successful 88% of time. Why? It's because most people are motivated by experience and emotion. They need to picture themselves using the products, experiencing them. It's no different with abstract products like music, art, film and writing etc. Write to your emotions. Write to your experience. Write to your life and death. I promise you whatever you create "will" be different and your dream job will seek you out. Lastly: Don't cloud success with fame. Don't mistake one job or another as a career and do not I repeat do not compare your mentors or influence to yourself. -(They serve a purpose and it's not a measurement of talent, but rather the emotions that arise from the creative process you BOTH share.)
Probably my most "horror" experience was composing music for a documentary about a historic palatial cinema that had been demolished in our city. It was essentially about the corruption behind how it was eventually destroyed and all the back-door dealing that went on to get a heritage listed building knocked down. The director had place-marked all the scenes where he wanted music with the score from Titanic; his office was covered with Titanic memorabilia. Needless to say he wanted this ridiculous sweeping score over most of the film and it sounded ludicrous out of the context of a romantic drama. No matter how many alternate ideas I presented - delicate piano during the demolition scenes, darker subdued tones during scenes which exposed corruption during interviews, and larger more enthusiastically grand themes during the 3D fly-throughs of the original building - he would say something like "that's great, but there's this part in Titanic...". I eventually gave up and wished him luck - that was 7 years ago - to this day he hasn't finished the documentary; apparently, everyone he comes across is too difficult to work with...
I think the explanation is this: when you're a nobody, you need to be able to produce something expectable, to speak in a familiar voice. When you're a somebody, you will have the luxury and even necessity of stepping outside the bounds to truly express your own voice. In the mean time, you need to develop it and be ready to use it to a greater or lesser degree: you never know when the opportunity to really speak in your voice will present itself. In the beginning, you will likely need to be able to speak in a familiar voice to make decision makers comfortable. They won't necessarily know when a special voice is in front of them because they're not expecting to encounter one.
I just turned 66 today and finally rallied the courage to build a small studio at home to do something I have dreamed of all my life. Thank you so much for taking the time and effort to put together a set of "priceless" tutorials. I have often used the excuse of being too old to start something new and exciting but many people have countered with the Kentucky Fried Chicken empire story, built by Harland Sanders, starting at age 65.
Age in this game is just a number. If you can let your imagination fly, you can become 2 years old or 102 years, whatever you want. However, do not think ever that you are 66 because music and creativity don't care how old you are. Look at what God can do and he was very "old" when he made earth!
excellent same here well I am a bit younger but setup studio and working on some projects as I cannot afford to pay royalties to use music in my soundtrack project.
Your mom is AWESOME in Sherlock! I literally sat up straight in my chair when you mentioned she was your mother. Also, find your own voice is a must in any creative endeavor, from writing to painting, so you're definitely right about that.
For the note takers... . . . . . . . . . . . 1. Do it your way (you are good enough - your way is the right way) 2. Be adventurous (and explorational, even when not required) 3. Restrict your options (play mainly with one new instrument) 4. Collaborate with extraordinary people (build a family of musicians) 5. Enrich your heritage (don’t listen to the other professionals for inspiration) 6. Embrace your heritage (it’s your artistic DNA) 7. Lean into your limitations (be insanely simplistic - give room for other film parts) 8. Lean into your USP (be one with the instrument) 9. Don’t copy other people (copy and combine three composers) 10. Don’t rely on other peoples sound (use them wrong)
I think most of the great sound tracks really do have that "this doesnt sound like anything else?" aspect. Take the Good Bad and Ugly. That weird as hell singing, Cowboy yodelling. What else sounds like that? Or Zimmers interstellar score with that giant pipe organ mixed weird. Neil Youngs stoned guitar noodling on the Dead man sound track. Bear McCrearys over the top percussion based Battlestar scores. The massive almost overwhelming synth pads on Bladerunner. All of these where just unique and the whole reason you remember them is because your brain heard them and thought "Wow, this sounds different!". It paints new colours in your minds eye.
Here’s the answers to what the cues are from! (I think) . . . . . . . . . . . 1. Chernobyl 2. The Mandalorian 3. 21 Grams 4. The Social Network 5. The Motorcycle Diaries? 6. How to train your dragon 7. Gladiator 8. Solaris 9. American Beauty 10. Atonement
Ayyyyy I guessed How to Train your Dragon! That being said it is reasonably easy to spot. Even still, it's probably one of my favourite film scores ever.
@6:56 Hildar Guðnadóttur went with Chris Watson to the decommission nuclear power station they used as the set for Chernobyl before filming started, recording of the sound of the building. With the exception of the choir piece, from those recordings the entire soundtrack was composed. It adds an extra dimension to the soundtrack that what you see (to a degree) is also what your hear. The physicality of the sets inform and are the instrumentation of the soundtrack.
There's a simple truth in what you say Christian. The less concerned I find myself with how others are doing it, the more I end up doing it myself. Positive vibrations from overcast and chilly Ireland! ☘️☮️🤘🏽🤠👍🏽☮️☘️
Don't chase the image. Chase the feeling. I dabble in composition as a hobby, production as a necessity, and songwriting as a passion. That being said, this advice is applicable to all of those things and more. It's applicable to any creative or business endeavor, as well as life in general. Well done!
Your advice was so useful I printed it out and stuck it on my wall. I have been struggling with this all my music life - to 'please' others to like my music. I realized that I had to let go of this and just produce music that is "my way". Here is the list of the 10 points you made - so that others can also print out and put on their wall. 10. don't rely on other people's sound. if u do - use them wrong! 9. don't copy other people. but if u do make sure they're brilliant and unexpected. 8. Lean into your USP (uniqueness). 7. Lean into your Limitations. Your style is defined by your limitations. 6. Embrace your heritage. 5. Enrich your Heritage 4. Collaborate with extraordinary people. 3. Restrict your options. 2. Be Adventurous. Experiment and go on adventures. 1. Do it your way.
God bless you, sir. Highly underrated channel but only the serious musicians will find you. The career musicians. Thanks for the having the dogs in the peripherals most of time, so appreciated.
I like it. I was once in a meeting. An agenda item was put on the table and the chairman listened to every single member of the committee describe why this was a terrible idea. At the end of which he paused then said, "if this pisses us all off...there must be something real in here." Don't turn away from things that seem like a "mistake", because you may well be knocking on the door of your limitations and those, as CH reminds us, is likely very close to what makes us unique. Or Amen Chistian!
I cannot describe how wide my grin got when ‘Forgotten Friendship’ from HTTYD came up. Was, is and will continue to be blown away by how simple the melody was, just so incredibly beautifully and tastefully embellished.
The best quote in this video was "What? That's so simple! I've could have done that". It's said by people (myself included) to many succesful tracks. Also, Gustavos work on the game "Last of us" is amazing
I would say Awesome video, but you already know that! I can only say Thank you for the advice! I'm getting ready to spread my wings this year and I really needed to hear this!! Thanks!
This is an incredible video. I've been pondering this topic very recently, more or less. I agree with the over-arcing notion you present in this video. I would like to add something, to help manage expectations, which is that the culmination of these things takes a very long time. For example, the idea of simplicity and minimalism in creation (not just music) is often heralded with high regards, but is very difficult to execute to the degree demonstrated in this video. It takes a master to be masterful. Al Hirshfeld had the ability to capture an immediately and unmistakably recognizable likeness in a character with just a few curved strokes of a pen, and that style took him years to hone and master. The goal is to become not just great, but outstanding, and that's typically a journey more than it is a goal.
Thank you, Christian for the deeply considered pep talk. I so much want one day to climb Arthur’s Seat with you and the dogs and just talk a bunch of crap about nothing in the driving rain.
I found myself in your video, I’m not educated, maybe not lucky enough... but not giving up at all!! thank you for such a lovable video, Christian!! Long live Spitfire audio!!
well, if you're "not educated" you can always try to be. Explore, study, learn, ask questions etc. That's never a limitation, that's just a line in your check box Cheers
Christian. I was having a conversation today about all of the things you've mentioned in this video - the frustration is so real! I'm at a stage where everything sounds like monotone soup, lost confidence, and dare I say it the whole "why the shit am I even trying". Madly, like nearly everything that has happened on my musical journey so far, I saw this video exactly when I needed to. Thank you for your work, your insights and your humour, all of which I find invaluable and heartwarming in equal measure.
thank you for a really inspirational vlog. I have just worked on a film, i am sfx and assistant director qualified as well as a composer. I stepped in for a colleague last year did a little bit of acting for rehearsals. Last time i acted was seven years old and i was one of the shepherds. This year due to covid i get a call to come as background for a film, so said yes to help out. As soon as I am on set i get four walk on parts, I asked my friend why me, there are others here who have been doing this for years. His answer was you can act hit the marks and you are unique and different. This was my chorus line moment. He spotted something in me which was needed for those scenes,
This is a stormin' video, Christian. Thanks so much for sharing...goosebumps aplenty with some of those score samples and the insights too, especially about the result of getting the Hobgoblin instrument that you couldn't play, so did something else with it...love that!
Christian, I've just discovered your channel thanks to Andrew Huaung and let me tell you that this video truly is a blessing. I'm considering revolutioning my whole career to build a musical one. All these words in this video just resonate so much in me. Thanks for sharing such a good content.
I absolutely loved this piece. Everybody can be exactly like everybody else. Only you can be you. So you might as well try to sell the one USP that no-one can match. Not always easy to do in the world of "commercial art" because it's a high risk strategy. But it's a wonderful thing to aim for. And if you're only doing creative work to pay the mortgage, you should probably be finding a better paying job.
Solaris!! Yes! What a piece of work; wore Spotify out with that one. The Social Network is another one. 21 Grams; an affecting film that's so enhanced by the music.
Good advice Christian! I have a few things that I try to do to keep me 'in the game'...some you've mentioned already. It is difficult to reduce my advice to one thing above all else, but as you asked us, I will try... It relates to aiming for success whilst enjoying your chosen profession, but without obsessing on the achievement... "Whilst your goal may be to climb to the peak of the mountain, you should stop every now and then to admire the view. Don't wait until you reach a plateau and don't wait until you reach the peak either...you will miss all of the enjoyment that is to be had whilst you are climbing" I hope that somebody finds this useful...
Soooooooooo many new scores and new artists to discover for me now!!!!!!, Dario Marianelli's score just caught my eye instantly!. Thanks Christian Sir.
You are a really interesting person. I follow you constantly with insufficient English. I believe in your sincerity. I think this is one of the most important things. To be sincere. This video will be the only video I have saved as a shortcut to the desktop. Thank you.
I feel so vindicated with Cliff Martinez on this list. The score to Solaris is so underappreciated and is quite honestly the best film score I have ever heard.
I wonder how many of 1,000 composers working either: 1) went to private / public school 2) had parents in the music / entertainment industry 3) born / grew up in London / New York / LA ....I suspect well over 50%.
For me 1. I went to a borstal of an inner city state school. 2. Having parents in show business didn’t help me in any shape or form other than their belief that you could actually earn a living from it and supported me in my efforts. 3. Absolutely fundamental to my evolution as a composer was there was a media industry people and I met and new people who went into it who offered me opportunities. I suspect this need to be in a major hub is dwindling but I think when you’re starting out at least travelling into these hubs for social events is crucial. Where computer games is concerned this is not necessary at all and my brother and his business partner have had the insane success they have enjoyed (neither went to private school) by hooking up with people via socials and by really caning it at GDC every year. Oh... and by developing a truly stand out voice that is greatly in demand.
Thank you, Christian! It is too bad (or lucky for you) that you don't live in Portland, Oregon, because I would be knocking on your door with compositions in hand (I need someone just like you as a collaborator!). You are so right about the tower of Babel that multimedia has become: Derivative Pablum! Chaotic cacophony! Especially now, at the end (???) of this pandemic where it feels as though we are locked in circular cul-de-sacs with no exit. No direction right or left, or front or back. Forget about up. Just down into a morass of everyone trying to be just like each other while hating everything outside of the self-servingness of crony capitalism. EDM: the soundtrack to a robot orgy, Rap: with its nursery rhyme melodies and kiddie-porn lyrics. 'Straight' Pablum Pop; which is all about reactionary anger and all-consuming, deeply suppressed rage. Corporate rock which is terrified of its own shadow; which is why it has no light with which to lead anymore . . . Thanks for always being so fun and inspiring. Especially at these times when it seems as though there is no light at the end of this seemingly endless tunnel. Keep these fun videos coming!!!
I think finding your voice isn’t the hard part, actually acknowledging that it’s there and listening to it is. It took me over 10 years to finally be able to do so, and that’s when people started to actually listen to my music as its own thing.
I think you're right. I'm also late to just going with what comes out. Over the years I've had friends say "I knew that was you" but never knew what it was they heard. I've stopped worrying about it.
Really enjoyed this video. So many wise points. Indeed, the most important aspect is to create your own, unique footprint. And never stop being curious. Thanks for the thoughts!
Bless Your Heart, Christian! Besides being great (LCO, BH, etc)...the Reason I only purchase Spitfire is because of your Passion!!! I remember the great LCO party in LA a few years ago. What a fantastic showcase for your company. I am lucky to have a great friend with a $13 million Stradivarius violin...but I still use Spitfire! Cheers!!!
I've already commented part way through. Just finished and damn, thank you for such a wonderful unicorn of a TH-cam video! Brilliant, insightful and thought provoking!
THANK YOU ! From the bottom of my heart. Your videos are so valuable. I am getting more confident in myself and in my own voice. Peace and inspiration wishes for you and your team! :)
Brilliant! Spot on and so clearly articulated. You have a gift of speech. One of my favorite videos of yours to date. Thank you Christian. PS, I purchased your BBC library because of your videos. They sucked me into Spitfire in general and then I was introduced to the library from there and couldn't get it off my mind for many months. Pulled the trigger and I'm a happy camper. Thank you and an early happy 2021! Alex J. - USA
I definitely struggle to not compare myself, or aspire to learn to emulate, the greats. I don't have classical training, even though I have a Music degree, so I've been slowly and almost aimlessly been struggling recently to try and learn more about orchestration, so that I can write orchestral scores that sound like those of my favourite composers. So I must thank you, for shining the light back on the music that I am instinctivised to create, as opposed to the music I strive to create. Wise words that I'll take to heart!
Enjoyed this video for it's narrative and message, as I do most all of your videos. Thank you! Also...I have enjoyed watching your talented Mom, Una Stubbs, as Mrs. Hudson in the brilliant Sherlock series (which my wife and I are watching for the 3rd and some episodes 4th time through...). Mrs. Hudson's character is expanded in this series, which is great, and she is very whimsical and plays it so wonderfully. Kudos!! - Thanks for your excellent videos, messages, and your work with Spitfire, Christian! I'll be watching, tuning in for your advice, and composing...!
Christian, me and my friends watch your channel all the time. We believe that you show some philosophical aspect of regular musician life. We appreciate all you do. Cheers from several Russian towns: Moscow, Novosibirsk and Magadan
OKAY! now I liked this message from ranty uncle Christian. Previously he said something similar regarding the winner of the westworld competition but he mentioned it in a completely wrong context, since his message was "be different, welcome to the world of composers". The right message was "welcome to the world of competitions" where for sure you need to stand out from 10,000 contenders. Now his message goes beyond. Which is great. Thx.
Really resonated with a lot of things in this video - specifically with talking about turning limitations into benefits. I've often beaten myself up for not playing guitar like Johnny Marr or being able to write lyrics like Justin Vernon or arrange vocal harmonies like Brian Wilson - but that's just a deeply counterproductive way of approaching creation. Still trying to bridge the gap between self-flagellation and creatively turning limitations into a expressive strength but I appreciate your focus on this. Going to go meditate on this video for a long time. Definitely worth several re-watches.
Thank-you for doing these. They are a Godsend, especially in these trying times. I also wanted to say that your beloved father was one of my favourites actors and inspiration growing up. I always loved everything he was in, he had such energy. The same goes for your mother always love seeing her on screen. They have both been an inspiration in my very limited Acting career. Keep up the good work, all your posts just make life better.
I just love your advice, Christian. Thank you so much for everything you are doing. And thank you and your team at Spitfire for making such inspiring instruments.
I am a graphic designer and experimental artist and animator just recently getting into music. I've been learning how all the tech works, but this video might be the most inspiring thing I've seen. Thank you for that list of 10 things. I've always liked using visuals and tools in a new and unique way, but felt bad or wrong doing it with music. This is so inspiring to just bring my visual collage mentality to my music. Thank you so much for sharing!
Very good, thank you! I'm just a musician and songwriter/ not a composer but I enjoyed this very much. It did make me think about media composers and soundtracks that affected me... in particular, Michael Nyman's work on "Prospero's Books" ('Twelve Years Since' I have never forgotten) and while not composition, the use of Leoš Janáček 's "On the Overgrown Path" in "The Unbearable Lightness of Being" was perfect to me. I am not at all sure those efforts fit into your tenets but I'll go back and listen anew and think about it.
I love the sentiment, and so wish more people realised this. Unfortunately, my experience has been the opposite when I tried to get my foot in the door. Directors/developers preferred the sounds/music that emulated their favourite existing works, and trying to do anything remotely different never got anywhere. Perhaps that's more how the indie sector works, or maybe I'm just bitter.
I still think composers should take note! This is a great video.
I think this is a very good point. I kind of touched on this (albeit maybe a little too politely) at the end was that we did something highly original to get the Alien Isolation job, the end result was strong but not world changing (I suspect had it been we would have won that BAFTA). We’re all slaves to temp and have to work to hire to pay the bills. But if we don’t develop our own voice and work hard at that there is little to draw on when we move up the ladder and start working with people with greater vision, sense of adventure and a real desire to do something new. My experience is directors want to push the boundaries but are often shackled by the studio or the commissioning broadcaster, by test audiences and by fear. But remember the director will hire you the producer will pay you, so your art should be adventurous your craft reliable. Thanks for your comment.
@@TheCrowHillCo Well put. We're all just trying to make something great, after all.
I'm in sales and I have been for over 20 years. I was an actor for 15 years. I started my own video production company and I went out of business after a year. I was an awkward and shy teenager that couldn't mumble 8 simple words to a girl like, "Do you want to go out this weekend?" I've heard every, "NO!" in the book and I learned a lesson that Christian is trying to drive home.
Example:
When I pitch for a sale with just facts and features about my product I'm successful about 27% of time. When I pitch a sale with zero facts and features and personal examples of how "I" use my products I'm successful 88% of time. Why? It's because most people are motivated by experience and emotion. They need to picture themselves using the products, experiencing them. It's no different with abstract products like music, art, film and writing etc. Write to your emotions. Write to your experience. Write to your life and death. I promise you whatever you create "will" be different and your dream job will seek you out.
Lastly:
Don't cloud success with fame. Don't mistake one job or another as a career and do not I repeat do not compare your mentors or influence to yourself. -(They serve a purpose and it's not a measurement of talent, but rather the emotions that arise from the creative process you BOTH share.)
Probably my most "horror" experience was composing music for a documentary about a historic palatial cinema that had been demolished in our city. It was essentially about the corruption behind how it was eventually destroyed and all the back-door dealing that went on to get a heritage listed building knocked down. The director had place-marked all the scenes where he wanted music with the score from Titanic; his office was covered with Titanic memorabilia. Needless to say he wanted this ridiculous sweeping score over most of the film and it sounded ludicrous out of the context of a romantic drama. No matter how many alternate ideas I presented - delicate piano during the demolition scenes, darker subdued tones during scenes which exposed corruption during interviews, and larger more enthusiastically grand themes during the 3D fly-throughs of the original building - he would say something like "that's great, but there's this part in Titanic...". I eventually gave up and wished him luck - that was 7 years ago - to this day he hasn't finished the documentary; apparently, everyone he comes across is too difficult to work with...
I think the explanation is this: when you're a nobody, you need to be able to produce something expectable, to speak in a familiar voice. When you're a somebody, you will have the luxury and even necessity of stepping outside the bounds to truly express your own voice. In the mean time, you need to develop it and be ready to use it to a greater or lesser degree: you never know when the opportunity to really speak in your voice will present itself. In the beginning, you will likely need to be able to speak in a familiar voice to make decision makers comfortable. They won't necessarily know when a special voice is in front of them because they're not expecting to encounter one.
I just turned 66 today and finally rallied the courage to build a small studio at home to do something I have dreamed of all my life. Thank you so much for taking the time and effort to put together a set of "priceless" tutorials. I have often used the excuse of being too old to start something new and exciting but many people have countered with the Kentucky Fried Chicken empire story, built by Harland Sanders, starting at age 65.
Go for it! 👍
Age in this game is just a number. If you can let your imagination fly, you can become 2 years old or 102 years, whatever you want. However, do not think ever that you are 66 because music and creativity don't care how old you are. Look at what God can do and he was very "old" when he made earth!
excellent same here well I am a bit younger but setup studio and working on some projects as I cannot afford to pay royalties to use music in my soundtrack project.
Your mom is AWESOME in Sherlock! I literally sat up straight in my chair when you mentioned she was your mother. Also, find your own voice is a must in any creative endeavor, from writing to painting, so you're definitely right about that.
Back to listen to this … again….and ..,,again.
For the note takers...
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
1. Do it your way (you are good enough - your way is the right way)
2. Be adventurous (and explorational, even when not required)
3. Restrict your options (play mainly with one new instrument)
4. Collaborate with extraordinary people (build a family of musicians)
5. Enrich your heritage (don’t listen to the other professionals for inspiration)
6. Embrace your heritage (it’s your artistic DNA)
7. Lean into your limitations (be insanely simplistic - give room for other film parts)
8. Lean into your USP (be one with the instrument)
9. Don’t copy other people (copy and combine three composers)
10. Don’t rely on other peoples sound (use them wrong)
thank you for this :-)
I think most of the great sound tracks really do have that "this doesnt sound like anything else?" aspect. Take the Good Bad and Ugly. That weird as hell singing, Cowboy yodelling. What else sounds like that? Or Zimmers interstellar score with that giant pipe organ mixed weird. Neil Youngs stoned guitar noodling on the Dead man sound track. Bear McCrearys over the top percussion based Battlestar scores. The massive almost overwhelming synth pads on Bladerunner. All of these where just unique and the whole reason you remember them is because your brain heard them and thought "Wow, this sounds different!". It paints new colours in your minds eye.
Ennio Moricone was a rare once in century genius. Same with John Williams of Star Wars fame.
This is the best video you've made Christian and the timing couldn't be better.
My thoughts exactly
I seriously love these videos more than any tutorial or product review. This is what it's all about.
Here’s the answers to what the cues are from! (I think)
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
1. Chernobyl
2. The Mandalorian
3. 21 Grams
4. The Social Network
5. The Motorcycle Diaries?
6. How to train your dragon
7. Gladiator
8. Solaris
9. American Beauty
10. Atonement
Ayyyyy I guessed How to Train your Dragon! That being said it is reasonably easy to spot. Even still, it's probably one of my favourite film scores ever.
They said "Write about what you know." That album about configurating SCSI RAID controllers didn't do so well...
Try one now about all the USB classification madness. Better luck next time, they say ;)
Johann Johannson wrote an album, IBM 1401. Anything is possible!
LMAO. Classic!
Could have used that for a Terminator soundtrack?
I'll get my coat...
Thanks so much for this video - the courage to be oneself is a constant struggle but so worth it
@6:56 Hildar Guðnadóttur went with Chris Watson to the decommission nuclear power station they used as the set for Chernobyl before filming started, recording of the sound of the building. With the exception of the choir piece, from those recordings the entire soundtrack was composed. It adds an extra dimension to the soundtrack that what you see (to a degree) is also what your hear. The physicality of the sets inform and are the instrumentation of the soundtrack.
I don't make soundtracks, but this gets me pumped to create.
There's a simple truth in what you say Christian. The less concerned I find myself with how others are doing it, the more I end up doing it myself.
Positive vibrations from overcast and chilly Ireland! ☘️☮️🤘🏽🤠👍🏽☮️☘️
This was excellent. Laughed so many time. Felt empowerment to continue with my voice in my sector. Thank you.
Inside No. 9 is indeed the finest British TV show. Arguably one of the finest ever.
"it all sounds the fucking same" you don't know how good hearing that made me feel. I severely needed that.
Don't chase the image. Chase the feeling.
I dabble in composition as a hobby, production as a necessity, and songwriting as a passion. That being said, this advice is applicable to all of those things and more. It's applicable to any creative or business endeavor, as well as life in general. Well done!
Well said- Find your favourite artists influences
Great piece this
Whether 'successful' or not, being yourself is SUCCESS.
Not really. Being yourself and being successful is really being successful.
Your advice was so useful I printed it out and stuck it on my wall.
I have been struggling with this all my music life - to 'please' others to like my music.
I realized that I had to let go of this and just produce music that is "my way".
Here is the list of the 10 points you made - so that others can also print out and put on their wall.
10. don't rely on other people's sound. if u do - use them wrong!
9. don't copy other people. but if u do make sure they're brilliant and unexpected.
8. Lean into your USP (uniqueness).
7. Lean into your Limitations. Your style is defined by your limitations.
6. Embrace your heritage.
5. Enrich your Heritage
4. Collaborate with extraordinary people.
3. Restrict your options.
2. Be Adventurous. Experiment and go on adventures.
1. Do it your way.
God bless you, sir. Highly underrated channel but only the serious musicians will find you. The career musicians.
Thanks for the having the dogs in the peripherals most of time, so appreciated.
Another great one. Tons of good advice in this video. Thanks, Christian!
I like it. I was once in a meeting. An agenda item was put on the table and the chairman listened to every single member of the committee describe why this was a terrible idea. At the end of which he paused then said, "if this pisses us all off...there must be something real in here." Don't turn away from things that seem like a "mistake", because you may well be knocking on the door of your limitations and those, as CH reminds us, is likely very close to what makes us unique.
Or
Amen Chistian!
Inside No. 9 is one of the best things British TV has produced in a very long time. Great work on the music, it's always a great part of each episode.
I cannot describe how wide my grin got when ‘Forgotten Friendship’ from HTTYD came up. Was, is and will continue to be blown away by how simple the melody was, just so incredibly beautifully and tastefully embellished.
The best quote in this video was "What? That's so simple! I've could have done that". It's said by people (myself included) to many succesful tracks.
Also, Gustavos work on the game "Last of us" is amazing
I would say Awesome video, but you already know that! I can only say Thank you for the advice! I'm getting ready to spread my wings this year and I really needed to hear this!! Thanks!
This is an incredible video. I've been pondering this topic very recently, more or less. I agree with the over-arcing notion you present in this video. I would like to add something, to help manage expectations, which is that the culmination of these things takes a very long time. For example, the idea of simplicity and minimalism in creation (not just music) is often heralded with high regards, but is very difficult to execute to the degree demonstrated in this video. It takes a master to be masterful. Al Hirshfeld had the ability to capture an immediately and unmistakably recognizable likeness in a character with just a few curved strokes of a pen, and that style took him years to hone and master. The goal is to become not just great, but outstanding, and that's typically a journey more than it is a goal.
You're a motivation master ! You show me the way. Thank you. 👍
Damit Henderson, you always fuck me up with these videos..
thank you.
Thank you, Christian for the deeply considered pep talk. I so much want one day to climb Arthur’s Seat with you and the dogs and just talk a bunch of crap about nothing in the driving rain.
Wow! I had no idea that Una Stubbs is Christian’s mum, very cool!
I used to fancy her back in the sixties! 🤪
I found myself in your video, I’m not educated, maybe not lucky enough... but not giving up at all!! thank you for such a lovable video, Christian!! Long live Spitfire audio!!
well, if you're "not educated" you can always try to be. Explore, study, learn, ask questions etc. That's never a limitation, that's just a line in your check box
Cheers
@@pedrosilvaproductions that’s what I do, thank you, Pedro!
Probably the best thing I've ever seen you do, Christian. Very candid. By the way, YEAH, Solaris! Recognized it right away and whole-heartedly agree.
Christian. I was having a conversation today about all of the things you've mentioned in this video - the frustration is so real! I'm at a stage where everything sounds like monotone soup, lost confidence, and dare I say it the whole "why the shit am I even trying". Madly, like nearly everything that has happened on my musical journey so far, I saw this video exactly when I needed to. Thank you for your work, your insights and your humour, all of which I find invaluable and heartwarming in equal measure.
thank you for a really inspirational vlog. I have just worked on a film, i am sfx and assistant director qualified as well as a composer. I stepped in for a colleague last year did a little bit of acting for rehearsals. Last time i acted was seven years old and i was one of the shepherds. This year due to covid i get a call to come as background for a film, so said yes to help out. As soon as I am on set i get four walk on parts, I asked my friend why me, there are others here who have been doing this for years. His answer was you can act hit the marks and you are unique and different. This was my chorus line moment. He spotted something in me which was needed for those scenes,
Both you and your company are soooooo awesome! Thanks for being you and for your company's products! A loyal fan!
Felt like I really needed this. Thanks Christian, you're a legend!
There was a lot of wisdom in this video and I thank you for it. Finding "my voice" remains my biggest challenge but I continue to work on it.
Great video. It has lots of good insights with facts to back then up. Thanks.
Great channel, great videos and great advice, thanks Christian
This is a stormin' video, Christian. Thanks so much for sharing...goosebumps aplenty with some of those score samples and the insights too, especially about the result of getting the Hobgoblin instrument that you couldn't play, so did something else with it...love that!
Christian, I've just discovered your channel thanks to Andrew Huaung and let me tell you that this video truly is a blessing. I'm considering revolutioning my whole career to build a musical one. All these words in this video just resonate so much in me. Thanks for sharing such a good content.
Lovely video Christian. Great memories of your dad in Fawlty Towers and your mum in Til Death us Do Part and Worzel Gummidge. Thank you.
I absolutely loved this piece. Everybody can be exactly like everybody else. Only you can be you. So you might as well try to sell the one USP that no-one can match. Not always easy to do in the world of "commercial art" because it's a high risk strategy. But it's a wonderful thing to aim for. And if you're only doing creative work to pay the mortgage, you should probably be finding a better paying job.
Solaris!! Yes! What a piece of work; wore Spotify out with that one. The Social Network is another one. 21 Grams; an affecting film that's so enhanced by the music.
Good advice Christian! I have a few things that I try to do to keep me 'in the game'...some you've mentioned already. It is difficult to reduce my advice to one thing above all else, but as you asked us, I will try... It relates to aiming for success whilst enjoying your chosen profession, but without obsessing on the achievement...
"Whilst your goal may be to climb to the peak of the mountain, you should stop every now and then to admire the view. Don't wait until you reach a plateau and don't wait until you reach the peak either...you will miss all of the enjoyment that is to be had whilst you are climbing"
I hope that somebody finds this useful...
beautifully written!
@@klemenspichler400 Thank-you 🙂
You killed it on Alien Isolation man! I loved every screaming heart wrenching second of gameplay on that game Christian!
Christian, you're great. Thanks again, from Buenos Aires.
Soooooooooo many new scores and new artists to discover for me now!!!!!!, Dario Marianelli's score just caught my eye instantly!. Thanks Christian Sir.
You are a really interesting person. I follow you constantly with insufficient English. I believe in your sincerity. I think this is one of the most important things. To be sincere.
This video will be the only video I have saved as a shortcut to the desktop.
Thank you.
I feel so vindicated with Cliff Martinez on this list. The score to Solaris is so underappreciated and is quite honestly the best film score I have ever heard.
I wonder how many of 1,000 composers working either:
1) went to private / public school
2) had parents in the music / entertainment industry
3) born / grew up in London / New York / LA
....I suspect well over 50%.
For me 1. I went to a borstal of an inner city state school. 2. Having parents in show business didn’t help me in any shape or form other than their belief that you could actually earn a living from it and supported me in my efforts. 3. Absolutely fundamental to my evolution as a composer was there was a media industry people and I met and new people who went into it who offered me opportunities. I suspect this need to be in a major hub is dwindling but I think when you’re starting out at least travelling into these hubs for social events is crucial. Where computer games is concerned this is not necessary at all and my brother and his business partner have had the insane success they have enjoyed (neither went to private school) by hooking up with people via socials and by really caning it at GDC every year. Oh... and by developing a truly stand out voice that is greatly in demand.
Thank you, Christian! It is too bad (or lucky for you) that you don't live in Portland, Oregon, because I would be knocking on your door with compositions in hand (I need someone just like you as a collaborator!). You are so right about the tower of Babel that multimedia has become: Derivative Pablum! Chaotic cacophony! Especially now, at the end (???) of this pandemic where it feels as though we are locked in circular cul-de-sacs with no exit. No direction right or left, or front or back. Forget about up. Just down into a morass of everyone trying to be just like each other while hating everything outside of the self-servingness of crony capitalism. EDM: the soundtrack to a robot orgy, Rap: with its nursery rhyme melodies and kiddie-porn lyrics. 'Straight' Pablum Pop; which is all about reactionary anger and all-consuming, deeply suppressed rage. Corporate rock which is terrified of its own shadow; which is why it has no light with which to lead anymore . . . Thanks for always being so fun and inspiring. Especially at these times when it seems as though there is no light at the end of this seemingly endless tunnel. Keep these fun videos coming!!!
Mark my words, this video is gonna blow up!
Just like the subject matter, this video has *PASSION* .
Christian, your mother Rocks! She is a great actor! Thank you for all the encouragement!
I think finding your voice isn’t the hard part, actually acknowledging that it’s there and listening to it is. It took me over 10 years to finally be able to do so, and that’s when people started to actually listen to my music as its own thing.
I think you're right. I'm also late to just going with what comes out. Over the years I've had friends say "I knew that was you" but never knew what it was they heard. I've stopped worrying about it.
This is such brilliant advice. I'm not a composer but I still got great value from watching this. many thanks
Well said Christian. If only most people took this approach, but they don't. They are much too busy massaging their own ego's. ❤
Really enjoyed this video. So many wise points. Indeed, the most important aspect is to create your own, unique footprint. And never stop being curious. Thanks for the thoughts!
Bless Your Heart, Christian! Besides being great (LCO, BH, etc)...the Reason I only purchase Spitfire is because of your Passion!!! I remember the great LCO party in LA a few years ago. What a fantastic showcase for your company. I am lucky to have a great friend with a $13 million Stradivarius violin...but I still use Spitfire! Cheers!!!
I would love to hear the pitch for Alien Isolation. Thankyou so much for this video. it was beautifully put together.
I seriously love these! Never one to candy coat, you tell it like it is, but in a funny yet passionate way.
This was great info! Really helped me realign my head space around all of this.
I've already commented part way through. Just finished and damn, thank you for such a wonderful unicorn of a TH-cam video! Brilliant, insightful and thought provoking!
THANK YOU ! From the bottom of my heart. Your videos are so valuable. I am getting more confident in myself and in my own voice. Peace and inspiration wishes for you and your team! :)
Brilliant! Spot on and so clearly articulated. You have a gift of speech. One of my favorite videos of yours to date. Thank you Christian. PS, I purchased your BBC library because of your videos. They sucked me into Spitfire in general and then I was introduced to the library from there and couldn't get it off my mind for many months. Pulled the trigger and I'm a happy camper. Thank you and an early happy 2021! Alex J. - USA
You Sir, are a gift to us all..
I definitely struggle to not compare myself, or aspire to learn to emulate, the greats. I don't have classical training, even though I have a Music degree, so I've been slowly and almost aimlessly been struggling recently to try and learn more about orchestration, so that I can write orchestral scores that sound like those of my favourite composers. So I must thank you, for shining the light back on the music that I am instinctivised to create, as opposed to the music I strive to create. Wise words that I'll take to heart!
Enjoyed this video for it's narrative and message, as I do most all of your videos. Thank you! Also...I have enjoyed watching your talented Mom, Una Stubbs, as Mrs. Hudson in the brilliant Sherlock series (which my wife and I are watching for the 3rd and some episodes 4th time through...). Mrs. Hudson's character is expanded in this series, which is great, and she is very whimsical and plays it so wonderfully. Kudos!! - Thanks for your excellent videos, messages, and your work with Spitfire, Christian! I'll be watching, tuning in for your advice, and composing...!
Thanks. A great pick me up. Great respect thanks for spitfire to awesome much love to the team too
Christian, me and my friends watch your channel all the time. We believe that you show some philosophical aspect of regular musician life. We appreciate all you do. Cheers from several Russian towns: Moscow, Novosibirsk and Magadan
Love to you all and thanks for reaching out. C x
Thank yoiu! Useful and inspiring.
This is exactly what I needed to hear. Cracking video Christian! Thanks
OKAY! now I liked this message from ranty uncle Christian. Previously he said something similar regarding the winner of the westworld competition but he mentioned it in a completely wrong context, since his message was "be different, welcome to the world of composers". The right message was "welcome to the world of competitions" where for sure you need to stand out from 10,000 contenders.
Now his message goes beyond. Which is great. Thx.
Fabulous advice, Chris. many thanks. I would just add: persistence, polite hustle, and pure unyielding intent.
Awesome video, loving the freshness of your approach, amazing references too! Thanks a lot Christian!
I loved listening to this. Stimulating and passion felt. Thank you for the great content, will be looking forward to more!
Thanks for the wise advise and inspiration.
Great video Christian with some really good tips, thanks take care
Amazing piece of content, thank you so much to sharing this knowledge
Really resonated with a lot of things in this video - specifically with talking about turning limitations into benefits. I've often beaten myself up for not playing guitar like Johnny Marr or being able to write lyrics like Justin Vernon or arrange vocal harmonies like Brian Wilson - but that's just a deeply counterproductive way of approaching creation. Still trying to bridge the gap between self-flagellation and creatively turning limitations into a expressive strength but I appreciate your focus on this. Going to go meditate on this video for a long time. Definitely worth several re-watches.
Just brilliant Christian. Very very wise words indeed. Been following you a while now and your videos are an inspiration. Superb
Tom B
As a composer with the focused ambition of excelling in creation to impress no one else but my self , I found inspiration here 🙏🏿👏🎩🦄
Thank-you for doing these. They are a Godsend, especially in these trying times. I also wanted to say that your beloved father was one of my favourites actors and inspiration growing up.
I always loved everything he was in, he had such energy. The same goes for your mother always love seeing her on screen. They have both been an inspiration in my very limited Acting career.
Keep up the good work, all your posts just make life better.
If I could give this 10 thumbs up I would. Well done!
Maravilloso!!! Gracias Christian!!!
I just love your advice, Christian. Thank you so much for everything you are doing. And thank you and your team at Spitfire for making such inspiring instruments.
I love your channel mate, really great wealth of information
Thanks for one of the best inspiring and educational sessions from you so far.
Excellent advise. Thank you
Solaris soundtrack is one of my all time faves, phenomenal!
One of the most inspiring videos I have seen in a long time. Thank you.
I am a graphic designer and experimental artist and animator just recently getting into music. I've been learning how all the tech works, but this video might be the most inspiring thing I've seen. Thank you for that list of 10 things.
I've always liked using visuals and tools in a new and unique way, but felt bad or wrong doing it with music.
This is so inspiring to just bring my visual collage mentality to my music.
Thank you so much for sharing!
Really needed to see this, was feeling like shit about my creative career recently and this helped 🙏
thank you for these highly crucial words - I guess these will give me inspiration for ages...
This is the pep talk I didn't realize I needed. Thanks Christian !
Very good, thank you! I'm just a musician and songwriter/ not a composer but I enjoyed this very much.
It did make me think about media composers and soundtracks that affected me... in particular, Michael Nyman's work on "Prospero's Books" ('Twelve Years Since' I have never forgotten) and while not composition, the use of Leoš Janáček 's "On the Overgrown Path" in "The Unbearable Lightness of Being" was perfect to me.
I am not at all sure those efforts fit into your tenets but I'll go back and listen anew and think about it.
This applies to almost anything creative! Great words of advice! Extremely motivating!