Ep.49 Lessons from an Award-Winning Composer
With Chris Mitchell
Episode Description:
In this episode, Chris Mitchell, a composer, producer, and performer, discusses his journey into music and how his career has evolved. Chris highlights the importance of music education for brain development and social skills. He also explains the difference between music and sound in film and TV production, and how they work together to create an immersive experience.
Amongst other things, we explore Chris’ approach to composing, which emphasises active listening and receptivity to initial ideas, a process he likens to ‘playing what you hear’. We touch upon how investing in local initiatives can lead to fulfilling experiences and unexpected professional opportunities. Chris also shares his experiences of connecting through networking and reinforces the idea that strong communication and community ties are beneficial for both personal and business growth.
Finally, Chris reveals the projects that he’s currently working on, including choral pieces and a new musical.
Chris Mitchell website: www.chrismitchmusic.com/
Chris Mitchell Socials:
Check out Chris’ Website:
Listen to the episode
Episode Time Codes
00:00 Greeting
00:28 Introduction to Chris
04:36 Why is music important for children’s development
06:34 How Chris has developed different parts of his business
09:15 What is the difference between sound and music
12:38 Sound projects Chris has worked on
13:26 Get your name out there!
14:21 Chris’ Project Highlights
16:42 Chris’ process for creating music
21:01 Underscore
22:10 How can people find and make the most of music opportunities in Reading
24:21 Chris’ current projects
26:45 Chris’ local projects
28:58 Final thoughts
Videos
The Difference Between Sound & Music
What is Underscore Music?
The Importance of Music for Development
Chris' Composing Process
Key takeaways
Nurture Local Connections and Community: Chris highlights the rewarding nature of investing in the local community, such as his work with Rabble Theatre and Number Five Young People. These local connections can lead to unexpected opportunities and a strong support network.
Get Your Name Out There: Chris advises getting your name out there through networking opportunities and on relevant registers. This is because “you don’t know where an opportunity will come from”. This proactive approach helps in being visible and accessible for potential collaborations.
Collaborate and Provoke Creative Ideas: Chris thrives on collaborative processes, such as working with director Ben Wicks, where they “throw things backwards and forwards” and provoke one another with creative ideas. This exchange of ideas can foster innovation.
Episode references
Chris worked at Leighton Park:
Screen Berkshire acts as a bridge between local residents, freelance crew, training providers, studios, suppliers and content producers.
Working together they identify skills gaps, facilitate training and develop pathways to employment.
Memories of Peter Wishart:
Read an interview with Ben Wicks on “The Impending White Light”, which is one of Chris Mitchell’s current projects:
Chris does regular work with local Reading-based theatre company: Rabble Theatre
Chris has worked with a Reading-based charity that supports young people with their mental health:
One of Chris’ project highlights is the short film Ruckus:
Podcast episodes mentioned in the episode with Chris that you maybe interested in:
Ep.41 It’s Ok To Not Be Ok: No. 5’s Support for Young People in Reading
With Abbie Trussler
In this episode, Abbie Trussler, the Communications Officer at No. 5 Young People, discusses this local charity in Reading that provides free counselling and support services to young people. Abbie shares…