Meet Troy Laureta of The Assembly Entertainment

Today we’d like to introduce you to Troy Laureta.

So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii to Filipino parents. My dad was a former musician and vocalist in his native Philippines. He introduced my sister and I to different styles of music that ranged from Motown, jazz, rock n roll to R&B. I started classical piano training at six years old and continued until I was 14. During this time, I would also dabble in singing and music production, creating my own tracks and recording vocals with my sister, We performed all over Hawaii as a duo group until 2006, when we moved to Los Angeles after I graduated from high school. I studied music production and audio engineering at Musicians Institute in Hollywood. Being in Hollywood brought so many opportunities for me as an artist and musician. After graduating in 2008, I started my journey as a musical director and producer. I was able to work with numerous artists as their MD and/or producer. Artists began entrusting me with their live shows, arranging and producing records. This gave the platform for me to share my gift around the world.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has not been an easy road to get to this point. Being an Asian-American from Hawaii was a big hurdle for me, especially because I started off as an artist. I have experienced racism and body shaming in the early stages of my career. I had to really prove myself as a capable musician and bandleader, and it definitely pushed me to get more knowledgeable about my craft. I realized early on that just playing the piano well was not enough! I had to really learn all facets of my field, including video production, vocal production, orchestration, running tracks, music business, audio engineering and even managerial roles such as learning about tour and live production. Having a basic knowledge of these helped me get ahead of the game. I took my obstacles and insecurities and use them as assets, rather than have them discourage me.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with The Assembly Entertainment – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
I work as a professional musical director and producer under my company The Assembly Entertainment. I specialize in live music, as well as music production in the studio. I’m known for doing many styles of music, but my speciality is pop music, particularly vocal and piano driven material. Much of my career was heavily influenced by Grammy-award winning producer, David Foster, whose piano-orchestral material, as vocally driven songs has been an important source of inspiration since I was a child. I have many proud moments, but I have to say that becoming his musical director in my later career has been such a milestone and full-circle moment for me. I’ve also had the privilege and honor of working with numerous artists such as Ariana Grande, Nicole Scherzinger, Chaka Khan, Babyface, Justin Bieber, Andrea Bocelli, Katy Perry and other artists abroad, as well.

I think something that sets me apart from other MDs is that I used to be an artist. So, there’s an innate understanding when I work with other artists because I am able to place myself in their shoes because I was in their shoes at one point. Music is only half the work. Being able to connect with artists on an emotional, spiritual and personal level is very important to me, especially when it comes to their art. When people entrust me with that, I really strive to give it the respect it deserves and maintain its integrity and vision.

So, what’s next? Any big plans?
My plan for the future is to continue touring and producing music. I am very passionate about both aspects, and I have been very blessed to be able to do both. I really look forward to creating more material and performing it for the masses. It truly is a blessing, and music is a source of happiness and healing for others, including myself. It has brought me out of a lot of dark places that many people wouldn’t be able to get out of. It has also inspired me to continue to strive for my dreams, despite the obstacles that we inevitably face in any industry, especially the entertainment industry.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/troylaureta

Image Credit:
Abel Rodriguez

Suggest a story: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.