Q&A with Composer Matthew Head

Matt Head is an Atlanta based composer and producer whose career in film scoring has seen incredible success over the last few years. His composition credits include numerous scores for movies, documentaries, and even commercials. Working with The Horne Brother's production company, Matthew served as the Music Supervisor and Composer for their films Kissing Bandit and The Start of Dreams. Matthew has also worked with Dapa Entertainment composing the music for their documentary I am a Dream Chaser. 

Matt and I originally connected on Twitter and I was immediately impressed with the quality of Matt's music and his growing success in a city I only really knew for it's music. Matt's story is truly inspiring.

Nick Dolan: To start off, can you tell us about your musical background before you started film scoring?

Matthew Head: My musical background begins at the age of 5 when my parents put me in piano lessons. I studied classical piano for 8 years. Once I started high school, my interest began to shift into music production and song writing. At the age of 18, I was introduced to the music business. I began working at an independent music studio in Atlanta, Georgia, which led me to work with up and coming artists and song writers. With those connections, I had the opportunity to write and produce music for Universal Records, Atlantic Records, Virgin Records, and Capitol Records.

ND: How did you get started scoring projects and movies? What was your first experience like?

MH: With my classical background, I ‘ve always had an interest in film scoring but never had an avenue to pursue it. I was introduced to an independent film production team (The Horne Brothers) that needed music for their feature film. With them, I received the opportunity to compose original music for their film, The Kissing Bandit. The film toured the festival circuit and won several awards including Best Film Score in the Motor City Film Festival. I fell in love with film scoring and began to reach out to other film makers in the Atlanta area.

ND: What's the music and film industry like in Atlanta today?

MH: The Atlanta film and musical scene is booming right now. Atlanta has always been known for their music in the hip hop scene, but with the recent film tax incentives, Atlanta has become the “place to be” for films. With the help from Tyler Perry of Tyler Perry Studios, several television shows and numerous films have been produced and filmed here. That has opened many doors for film industry up and comers, such as myself. I have been introduced to several film and television executives just by living here in Atlanta. Though Atlanta will never be “Hollywood” but the opportunity is much higher than in recent years. Turner Studios (TNT, Cartoon Network and etc…), CNN, Tyler Perry Studios are all located in Atlanta and with continued growth, Atlanta can soon become the “Hollywood” of the south. 

ND: What would you say has contributed most to your success as a composer?

MH: Social Media has played a huge role in my career as a film composer. Currently I do not have an agent or a manager and I have received most of my opportunities via social media or word of mouth. With Social Media, I can post my recent work, resume, music, and reels and promote myself. I’ve also made connections through my network in the music industry. Film has become a huge asset for music artists and promoters. Through those artists, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with directors and producers working music videos and promotions. 

ND: What is your most memorable experience as a musician or as a composer?

MH: The future of film scoring is growing. Original music is an important ingredient for all media outlets. Though, the music and film industry can become saturated with talent, the opportunities to work on quality projects are available. With the access to building your own studio and the ability to create at will is important.  My goal is to become the “go to” film composer in the South. I have no doubt that I can be that. 

ND: From your experience, where do you see the future the film scoring industry going?

MH: The future of film scoring is growing. Original music is an important ingredient for all media outlets. Though, the music and film industry can become saturated with talent, the opportunities to work on quality projects are available. With the access to building your own studio and the ability to create at will is important.  My goal is to become the “go to” film composer in the South. I have no doubt that I can be that. 

ND: What are some essential skills that composers need in order to be successful in this industry?

MH: Playing an instrument and understanding music theory is extremely important to be a successful film composer. Though, music can be created by loops and from a computer, understanding how to develop and create music is essential in your success in becoming a film composer. Understanding “music language” is key when creating with other musicians.   

ND: What are you working on now?

MH: I am currently composing music for several projects. I just started the post production on 2 made for television films (The Preacher’s Son & The Choir Director). Both films are set to premier in 2015. I just completed the score for the feature The Man In 3B, which will be my first theatre release in 2015. I am also working with BI Worldwide and award winning director/producer Scott Takeda of Takeda Entertainment on several advertising and promotion commercials for Buick/GMC and others. I am extremely thankful for the opportunities and looking forward towards the future.

Thanks Matt for a great Q&A! If you would like to see more of Matt's work, head over to his IMDb and check out his blog.

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