It was after hearing the John Williams score for the Spielberg film HOOK that I decided to try composing. Even though it's not my favorite film score (or even my favorite Williams score) it will always have a special place in my heart. Here to discuss this often forgotten musical gem with me is Russell Powell, fellow composer and former composition student of mine that shares a similar affection for the score. 

Russell's Website: https://www.powellmusictulsa.com
Russell's Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/russell-powell

Click to order HOOK - THE ULTIMATE EDITION from La-La Land Records

(The music clips used are not mine, and used for educational and informational purposes only. Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the copyright act 1976, allowance is made for fair use for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use. All rights go to the respective owners.)

In this episode I talk to my old friend Chris O'Hara about the news of John Williams stepping away from film music. Chris and I went to junior high and high school together, and we've always shared a mutual admiration of Williams and his music. In fact, we both pursued careers in music largely because of his influence on our younger selves. 

Chris O'Hara is a professional trumpet player, music educator and doctoral student at the University of Illinois (Urbana/Champaign); you can learn more about him and hear recordings on his website. 

In this episode, I talk about one of my newest works for concert band, Hope and a New Dawn (Grade 3/3.5). I discuss the long road it took to writing this piece, and share some thoughts in my decision-making when it came to writing the melodic material. 

Be sure to listen until the end, as there is a performance recording of Hope and a New Dawn, with myself conducting the Arlington Heights Community Concert Band (Arlington Heights, IL)! 

For more info on this piece, including ordering info, click here. 

Thank you for listening! 

Welcome back to The Composer Chris 'Cast! 

In this second episode, I talk about the plans I had for myself early in my adult life, and how conversations with friends had me re-evaluating my composing goals. The key lesson: it's all about the journey. And this leads in to a brief look at Crossover, the piece that I have selected as the theme song for the podcast. 

Thank you so much for listening!