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An Inspired Chat with MEL Symphonic

MEL Symphonic shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

MEL, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
When I’m working on music, especially a new idea, I get into a flow state. I have to record the moment, because when I listen back to it there are things I don’t remember. I can recall certain choices I made with the notes I played, but others that really surprise me as if something was guiding my hands. That experience of being so present in the moment doesn’t click until after it’s ended, and I realize that I’ve just reconnected with myself on a deeper level. It sounds rather whimsical, but it really is surreal.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m an independent artist that with a DIY approach. I compose and produce my own music, primarily as a guitarist. I have an eclectic set of influences that have shaped my sound, which best fits in the genre of Instrumental Progressive Rock. I like to incorporate stylistic elements from electronica to classical, and everything in between. That’s my favorite aspect of progressive rock; it can be anything and everything.

My first official single, “Ascent” was released in May of 2025. Since I’m learning to produce as I go, I’m even more excited about my follow up single, “Saturnine” which was just released on October 8th. My music has been described by others as cinematic, and with “Saturnine” I have endeavored to fuse Spaghetti Western guitar with outer space. It makes sense when you hear it.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
Overeating — I spent a lot of years not taking care of myself and battling issues with my self-esteem. I’ve done my best to change my lifestyle and focus on my creativity, which has resulted in weight loss and much more confidence in all aspects of life.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Last year I was really struggling with time management and finding inspiration. I wasn’t getting results from my efforts that I was happy with, so I became even more discouraged. So I took a break from music creation. I just focused on working my full time job, and coming home to relax, watch tv, eat and not much else. It was genuinely a very peaceful time in my life. I felt unburdened and unconcerned with seeking purpose, meaning, or fulfillment.

About 3-4 weeks in, I’m at work and I’m struck with an idea for one of my songs. I don’t remember what the idea was or the song, but it was enough to get my gears working again. Then reality set back in that I was at work, far away from my guitar and I felt the complacency evaporate. I was once again a musician seeking to express myself. My artistic drive was reinforced and I’ve never looked back.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
Family, friends, and my music.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
When I’m immersed in nature, surrounded by trees; reading a book, playing music, or sitting alone in silence. It’s the best therapy.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Self-portraits by myself; album art image for “Ascent” also my own photograph; and my logo is my own design. Album art for “Saturnine” self-designed with a little help from NASA.

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