A Week in Baden, a Return to Music
Updated: 19 hours ago
A whole week of preparation led to this magical moment at Synchron Stage Vienna.
Seven years ago, I heard about Hollywood Music Workshop (HMW) from a friend. Around that time, I first learnt what orchestration was—something I would later struggle with. After graduating from my MA, spending two exhausting years working in the animation industry, and moving back to Europe for intensive PhD research, attending HMW was the first time I allowed myself to return to music with the same wholehearted passion and simple joy that drew me to it in the first place.
Michiel taught us different conducting patterns and how to vary them, along with tips on communicating with musicians.
During the week in Baden, I really experienced how different orchestrations changed the flavours and texture of the music. I also learned so much by taking part in the production of other talented composers’ pieces, from score refinement to the final recording. I’m deeply grateful to Conrad, Michiel, Rolf, Justus, Csongor and Felix for your wise advice, warm encouragement, and practical guidance on navigating the industry.
Behind the scenes of the final recording & a wonderful evening at a Heuriger — one of my favourite Austrian experiences!
Thanks to Eric, Emilio, Barton, Charmaine, Luka, Jonas, Michael, and Lina for sharing your soulful, authentic music with me, along with your own life stories. I felt fortunate to be part of this meaningful recording experience.
A surprisingly rich private collection of nostalgic dolls at Puppen und Spielzeugmuseum Baden (Doll and Toy Museum), right next to the Casino.
Unexpectedly, this experience inspired the next chapter of my music-making: exploring orchestration more deeply and working with live ensembles in Ireland and Sofia. And that’s where another story begins :)
HMW coincided with the La Gacilly Photo Festival in Baden, where urban spaces were transformed into expansive open-air galleries—including an exhibition on the lake!
【Credit】
Music: 'Born to be wild' by David Schweitzer (1st video). 'A Life Well Written' by Christopher Wills (3rd video). 'Bluebeard' by Nam Hye Seung (4th video). And 'The First Taste Of Salmon' by Anne Nikitin (5th video).
Photography & Film: Hua-Chun Fan
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