Sitting down with a REAL Anime Composer (ft. Kevin Penkin) | Trash Taste #104

TL;DR

Composer Kevin Penkin discusses his experiences in anime music creation.

Transcript

• So I imagine you have these grandiose ideas and this concept that you have. And there's a guy there that is like, "I am here to scale you back down." - Yeah. - It's like, you're pushing the envelope a little bit aren't you? - It's like I wanna record on the moon. - Apparently a dying black hole or like a black hole is like the loudest sound ever.... Read More

Key Insights

• 🌏 Kevin Penkin's journey from aspiring musician in Australia to a prominent anime composer exemplifies dedication and talent in the field of music.
• 🎼 His collaborations with established composers and musicians highlight the importance of networking and mentorship within the music industry.
• 💁 Kevin's sensitivity to cultural representation in his compositions ensures that he honors traditional musical forms while introducing contemporary elements.
• 🤑 The expressive potential of various instruments enables Kevin to create rich soundscapes that enhance storytelling in anime.
• ✋ Remote collaborations during the pandemic showcased Kevin's adaptability and ability to maintain high-quality music production despite logistical challenges.
• 🧑‍🎨 A focus on personal growth and exploration reveals Kevin's desire to evolve as an artist while continuing to produce captivating soundtracks.
• 🛟 Kevin's insights into the technical aspects of music composition serve to demystify the process and illustrate the careful planning required for orchestral arrangements.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did Kevin Penkin start his career in anime music?

Kevin began his journey in music during his teens, working with renowned composer Nobuo Uematsu. He attended the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, where he developed his skills. His break came when he scored music for the anime "Norn9", followed by “Made In Abyss,” which significantly boosted his career in the anime industry.

Q: What unique challenges does Kevin face when composing for established franchises like "Star Wars"?

Composing for established franchises requires a delicate balance between honoring the original material and infusing new, personal creative expressions. Kevin feels the weight of expectations, needing to innovate while also respecting the legacy of composers like John Williams. However, working in anime allows for more creative freedom due to its unique storytelling and visual style.

Q: How does Kevin approach collaboration with musicians in different cultural contexts?

Kevin advocates for ensuring mutual respect when incorporating traditional instruments into his works. He consults with skilled musicians to understand the essence of the instruments, ensuring that his compositions authentically reflect the culture while being artistically sound. This collaboration is vital in maintaining integrity and fostering creativity.

Q: What are some of the instruments Kevin uses in his compositions?

Kevin incorporates various instruments, including traditional Japanese instruments such as the sho (mouth organ), koto, shakuhachi, and shinobue in "Star Wars: Visions." This choice of instruments enriches the sound and helps convey the cultural nuances of the stories he is telling through music.

Q: What future projects does Kevin wish to pursue?

Kevin expresses a desire to create a personal album that reflects his unique musical voice, as well as explore new genres and styles, like enhancing his singing ability. He aims to strike a balance between professional work and personal expression in his evolving musical journey.

Q: How does Kevin ensure that his music remains fresh and innovative?

Kevin aims to constantly challenge himself by seeking inspiration from various experiences, genres, and cultures. He experiments with different musical techniques and ideas, gradually building a personal sound while learning from each project he undertakes, ensuring that he is continually growing as a composer.

Q: What is Kevin's creative process when composing music?

Kevin often starts with an initial idea that can come from dreams or inspiration during the day, and then builds upon it using digital audio workstations. He enjoys experimenting with textures and melodies, gradually layering sounds until he achieves a finished piece that aligns with the project’s themes.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Kevin Penkin, an Australian composer, shares his journey into anime music, detailing his early inspirations and collaborations with notable figures like Nobuo Uematsu and other musicians.

• He elaborates on working with traditional instruments for projects such as "Made In Abyss" and "Star Wars: Visions," emphasizing the importance of cultural sensitivity and collaboration with local musicians.

• The discussion highlights the challenges and creative processes in scoring anime, revealing how Kevin balances personal expression with the demands of established franchises.