Today we’d like to introduce you to Anisha Thomas
Hi Anisha, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My musical journey starts from taking piano lessons as a child, but always having an interest in composing my own music. This evolved into wanting to learn more about music production and technology, composition technique and theory. I went on to study music with a major in composition at university.
For over a decade I have been a composer and music creator in the professional world composing for film/tv/media as well as dance, concert and opera projects. In the last two years, I’ve also been composing for projects in the web3/tech/XR space – a relatively new space with limitless and untapped possibilities for creative endeavors!
Entrepreneurship also plays a major part in my story – Sound-how is a diverse and inclusive music and sound platform I established in 2017, which offers masterclasses, talks, online programs and resources to the wider community.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
A major part of my story is that it has not been a smooth road. There was the challenge of getting my foot in the door, as well as finding that there were limited openings and many other composers aiming for the same opportunities. Making a living from music and building a career is not an unheard challenge for a composer.
In addition, often being dismissed as a composer has proven to be a struggle that I have had to face. However, these hurdles I have faced within my journey have helped me create opportunities for myself and others, which has also become a major part of my mission.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As a composer, I have always considered myself to have an eclectic musical voice. I have always been driven by reconnecting to the source of music. It is why my music quite often includes a variety of different electronic and acoustic instruments and sounds. I use pitch and frequency as a way to closely connect with audiences. I have also found myself fusing together different styles and moods.
I have composed quite extensively for film/tv/media projects that have been featured on TV and streaming services such as Apple TV and Amazon Prime. I have also been privileged to receive some awards and recognition for my work. My recent endeavours in the web3/tech/XR space have also proven to be a new pathway for my musical pursuits! I am certain it will be for other composers and music creators too. I am currently working on some music for a new app, which I’m really excited about!
My work with Sound-how also keeps me busy! We provide masterclasses, talks, online programs and resources and also work with other arts and education organizations. Early next year, we will be releasing a new e-book helping composers to quote and negotiate fees for their services. Currently we are running a coaching/career accelerator program, which focuses on professional development for early career composers and music creators. In addition, our consultation program is offered for composers and music creators who need just a one-off session as well as other non-music professionals needing assistance in music sourcing, placement and licensing.
A big issue in our industry is the gatekeeping effect of information and knowledge. Our programs, classes and resources are designed to provide guidance and the needed industry skills and knowledge for successful career pursuits.
As a woman of color, I have an innate understanding of the additional challenges minorities face within the arts and entertainment industry. It was one of my driving forces to start Sound-how in the first place. Sound-how’s uniqueness is being a platform for women, gender diverse and minority individuals in music and sound, as well as its diverse and inclusive approaches in the programs and resources offered. Our goal is to provide the needed knowledge and skills that can bridge gaps to more opportunities within our industry.
Knowing that I can be my most authentic self, create and walk my own path as a professional composer is what makes me the most proud. It gives me reassurance and hopefully will help me to reassure others that all creative desires are meant to be followed!
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
My composer website has information on how to get in touch with me for my music!
For Sound-how’s online programs and resources (with some free ones too), we are reachable via our website and social media. We will also be releasing a new e-book titled ‘How Much Do I Charge? A Comprehensive Guide for Composers’.
Stay tuned by following us on social media and signing up to our newsletter on our website.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sound-how.com
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/sound_how
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soundhowinternational/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sound-how
- Soundcloud: http://soundcloud.com/anishathomascomposer
- Other: https://www.anishathomas.com/
Image Credits
Kyle Ellis, Shweta Pai
