How would you describe your work?

As a composer, I am particularly drawn to acoustic and organic sound sources, and these feature heavily in my pieces.

First thoughts when Ffern approached you about responding to a landscape?

When I first saw the footage, what struck me was the feeling of stillness, whilst also being in motion. I wanted to be able to capture the meditative nature of the film whilst also providing interest for the viewer and listener. The work of composers such as Max Richter and Oliver Coates were particularly present in my mind when composing.

How did you approach the project?

My first step was to focus on the sound design for the underlying soundscape elements. This is where organic meets electronic, as I used things such as bird song, and muted piano alongside sampled and synthesised sounds. Once I had created this metaphorical “bed”, I really let myself improvise freely, and a lot of the cello material is just that - improvisation!

What first drew you to the cello?

I began playing at 5 years old, so to be totally honest I can’t recall what exactly it was that drew me there. One thing I do know is that I turned down the violin because I didn’t want to have to stand up and play!

What cello music particularly inspires you?

I am always moved by musicians who explore and expand the capabilities of a cello. For example, singer/songwriter Ayanna Witter-Johnson, whose cello Reuben morphs between percussion, bass and acoustic guitar, or Oliver Coates, whose second album Upstepping features sounds almost exclusively originating from his cello.

Can you describe your favourite scent?

I know I should really say autumn, but I think winter would be the season of my favourite scents. In particular, the frosty, dewy smell of a winter morning.

Where else do you find your inspiration?

In the people around me. I am very blessed to have many creatively gifted close friends, who are also very kind and supportive. Watching different peoples journeys teaches me a lot about my strengths and weaknesses, and my place as a creative in the industry.

What are you working on next?

I am currently working on a few different projects, including scoring a short independent film, and collaborating with choreographer Mthuthuzeli November, with whom I have a long-standing creative partnership. I am also beginning my own solo project which is a little terrifying, but mostly exciting.

What is the best advice you could pass on?

A big thing that stopped me from saying yes to opportunities in the past was a belief that there was someone else who could do a better job. You have to get rid of that thought - as long as you care, and work hard, your work is just as valid as anyone else's. Grab every opportunity you can. I have achieved so much more by saying yes to things I had never done before, and thought I wouldn’t be able to achieve. Push yourself!