August, 2025

Please share about your experience visiting the Summer Music Program.

Visiting ETM-LA’s Summer Music Program in Compton was such a joy! I loved hearing everyone’s bright ideas as we composed short pieces together and watching even the shyest kids come out of their shell. Over two classroom visits, the students watched various film clips (from Star Wars, Antman, Transformers, to Monsters Inc.) and discussed what was happening in the story, what feelings were being conveyed, and how the music reflected those emotions. Using Soundtrap, students worked in groups to create their own soundtrack to accompany the film clips; they enthusiastically listened through a library of instruments and selected the ones they thought fit best while considering tempo, dynamics, and pitch. 

It was fun seeing how excited students were to witness their compositions come to life with the films, and we had fun experimenting with how a single arrangement could fit (or not!) into different scenes. For instance, we enjoyed the juxtaposition of intense action music with an amusing animated scene!

Every student has their own unique relationship with music, which makes each interaction special. It felt like a mutual learning experience, as I enjoyed engaging with their perspectives just as much as they were learning from me.

Please share a little about yourself and your relationship with music education and ETM-LA.

Music education gives kids so much more than just the ability to play an instrument. It teaches problem-solving, self-discipline, and communication, all while providing a safe haven to be creative, take risks, and express themselves. These skills carry into so many areas of life and can inspire confidence, joy, and connection in the most beautiful way.

Growing up in a family of music educators, I’ve been living and breathing music since before I could even talk. From attending concerts and jamming with friends to sharing mix CDs (ah, the good ole days), music has always been how I connect with people and express myself. That foundation sparked my love for the art form and my passion for creating professionally today.

Composing feels like tapping into something ancient and universal—music has been part of the human experience for as long as we’ve existed. It’s a way to share stories, build community, learn about other cultures, and collaborate with incredible artists. There’s something almost divine in the way it can inspire, bring people together, and create moments that feel truly sublime.

I first connected with ETM-LA by attending their annual gala with my fellow film composers—one of my absolute favorite nights of the year! I love celebrating our city’s incredible music educators, fundraising for essential arts programs, and enjoying unforgettable performances by so many talented students. I’m proud to support the energy and mission of ETM-LA and am excited about all of their incredible initiatives.