Today, we are interviewing Daxxon, an orchestral composer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist.
Please tell us something about yourself.
I’ve composed mostly for short films, motivational speeches, and trailers. Still, I’ve also had some of my best scores played live by professional orchestras.
How did you get into what you do right now? Please tell us more about your journey?
I was born in a family in which music has never been more than a temporary hobby, so my long term goal of becoming a full-time professional composer looked quite utopic at the beginning. Thankfully my parents always supported me in my choices, like letting me attend the Conservatory in Pesaro (Italy). During the years, I’ve perfectioned the art of writing music thanks to some of the most amazing teachers I could ever have wished for, trying to learn as much as possible and to put this knowledge in my music. In 2014, I discovered the beautiful world of DAW, VST’s, and music production, which really boosted my confidence in experimenting with sounds and different styles. I also understood that music production was way more complicated than just knowing how to write notes on a score. It’s all been so great, and I’m still learning every day because that’s what keeps you motivated and inspired.
Who are your role models?
I’m mostly into film scoring, trailer music, and cinematic soundtracks so, composers like Hans Zimmer and John Williams are a major inspiration. My absolute favorite composer is Thomas Bergersen, and his album “Sun” is, in my opinion, the greatest thing ever made.
Describe your process.
I love writing in the key of F. I feel like it’s one of the keys in which most instruments perform best. Most people don’t realize that in music production, the composition of the score is just the first step. Then comes the mixing, which can give your track a Marvel film quality or just flat out destroy it. I can’t remember how many times I’ve spent hours literally to turn knobs on the equalizers to find that perfect balance in the frequencies. It’s a tedious process, especially when you are a beginner, and in some way, it makes you feel like music is just a bunch of effects and rules. Truth is that when you go to bed after a 6-hour session of mixing, and you listen to the track the day after, everything will be worth it. Because you made something truly great, investing your time, your money, and your mental efforts.
What’s your most memorable experience?
My biggest work was to score and produce a soundtrack for a sports event here in Italy. When the athletes were walking inside the stadium, my track was played on the speakers. It was incredible.
Which social media channels work best for promoting your work? What exactly do you do on the social media channel that makes it work for you?
I upload my tracks mainly on Soundcloud and on my Facebook page, so people can listen to them for free. I’ve also got a small YouTube channel in which I upload covers of famous soundtracks.
Looking back, what’s one thing you wish you understood better before you ever got started?
Probably the only thing that was holding me back at the beginning was the lack of self-confidence. A great lesson that I’ve learned is that you can make top-notch orchestral tracks in your room, with a laptop, a pair of headphones, and a 32-keys MIDI keyboard. Gear is not as important as one might think.
What keeps you going when things get tough?
Anybody can have a rough day. And nobody needs to be at 100% of their efficiency forever. It’s good to take a step back sometimes to see things more objectively. When I feel like I’m not inspired I just close the software and read a book about composition, I listen to that album that I’ve never had the time to check out, I practice an instrument. The important thing is: do not let yourself stagnate in this tough moment. Try to find a way to get back on track!
Any message for our readers.
I love my job, and I was lucky because almost everybody on my path supported me. My words are for the ones that have been told they’re useless: never give up, ever. You can be what you want. You are the protagonist of your life.
How can people connect with you?
My business mail is daxxonmaestrowork@gmail.com. I offer my services as a composer, music teacher, and audio engineer on Fiverr, just look for “daxxonmaestro“. If you want to listen to my tracks for free, look for “Daxxon” on Soundcloud.
You can also connect with me on Instagram.