Interview with Adam DiTroia
Don’t forget to check his website.
Trailer Music News: Could you introduce yourself to TMN readers? How did you get into the business?
Adam DiTroia: I’m a composer and sound designer for games, television, trailers, films, and other media. I got started in my early twenties creating music and sound for game mods, flash games, local tv commercials, etc. I moved on from there to bigger game projects, national/international commercials, short films and other things.
TMN: Why did you choose to become a composer?
AD: I come from a very musical family. Music was always around me growing up. I think it was a natural progression really. I’m constantly amazed by the power of music. It can literately change lives.
TMN: As you compose music for commercials, trailers, video games and apps, do you have a different approach for each type of media?
AD: The technical aspects for each one varies but the actual process of composing stays pretty much the same. Each one requires a slightly different mindset. The music for trailers, for instance, needs to tell a story in a very short amount of time. Commercials also have a certain build to them. But the way I write and record remains pretty constant.
TMN: What are your main sources for inspiration?
AD: My main sources for inspiration are definitely visuals. If it’s a game, I like to see concept art, screenshots, gameplay footage, etc. Of course with trailers and film it’s different. I’ll get inspired by the script, a description, a conversation with the creator, etc. If I’m working on non- project specific music, then the inspiration can come from virtually anywhere!
TMN: What do you think about the current trends in trailer music industry?
AD: I’ve always been a huge fan of trailer music! Way before I was working as a composer I noticed and appreciated the power of the right music in a trailer. Personally, I like the hybrids of styles composers are creating for trailers. I’m really into combining elements of many musical styles as well.
TMN: Who are your idols?
AD: As far as composer idols, I really like the work of E.S. Posthumus, Hans Zimmer, Randy Edelman, John Williams, X Ray Dog, Amon Tobin, Jerry Goldsmith, Michael Kamen, and SO many others! As far as sound designers I think Scott Martin Gershin, Ben Burtt, Randy Thom, Ric Viers, and again, many others. I also think guys like Anti-Hero are doing some really interesting things for trailers.
TMN: Do you like to listen to the work of a fellow trailer music composer? Which ones?
AD: Definitely. I’m into E.S. Posthumus, X Ray Dog, Two Steps From Hell, Anti-Hero, and a ton of others. There is great work being done for sure.
TMN: What are your plans for the future?
Adam DiTroia: Professionally, my plans for the future are to release a trailer music library, continue creating music and sound for games, tv, film, animation, trailers, etc. I’m working on an instrumental piano album, and continuing to go after licensing opportunities in all areas of media. I have a fantastic manager, Doug Rappaport of Rappapod Media Group. He’s out there pushing for me every day.
TMN: Could you introduce your book 101 Money Making Ideas For Composers, Sound Designers, and Performing Musicians?
AD: Sure, thanks for asking! 101 Money Making Ideas for Composers, Sound Designers, and Performing Musicians is an eBook that I created and published. I wrote it to share some ideas and opportunities that might be overlooked sometimes. It’s for sale on Amazon but I’m actually going to be making it available for free in the near future. If someone tries a few of the ideas and finds success with them then I’ll be thrilled.
TMN: If you could give an advice to aspiring composers, in the length of a Tweet, which one would it be?
AD: I’d definitely say to find your own “voice”. Write the music that you’re passionate about first. Then learn to network and research projects.
