Today we’d like to introduce you to Yaoyang Liu
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I am a Chinese composer, orchestrator, and pianist with a deep passion for film music. Aspiring to be a storyteller through my musical compositions, I continually delve into the vast possibilities that music offers to evoke emotions in the audience. My compositional style is shaped by my classical piano training, infused with modern music styles that reflect a broad aesthetic.
After finishing my undergraduate study in recording arts, I went on to study film composition in Columbia College Chicago where I learned to break new grounds, explore my sound palette and cultivating a distinctive personal style, which in my own description is diverse, encompassing orchestral, hybrid scores, Chinese ethnic and Electronic.
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?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, but the challenges have shaped me into the composer I am today. One of the biggest struggles has been navigating the competitive nature of the film and media industry. Breaking into the field requires not only talent but also building a network and proving your skills in high-pressure environments. As an international artist, adapting to different cultural perspectives and communication styles has also been a learning curve, especially when collaborating with teams from various backgrounds.
Another challenge has been balancing creativity with the practical demands of client expectations. In media composition, you’re often working under tight deadlines, which can be creatively taxing. Learning to remain inspired while meeting strict briefs has been an ongoing process.
Through it all, I’ve learned resilience, adaptability, and the importance of perseverance. Every struggle has been an opportunity to grow, and I’m grateful for the journey.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a composer, orchestrator, and pianist specializing in film and media music. My work spans a variety of genres, including orchestral, hybrid scores, Chinese ethnic music, and electronic styles. I aim to tell compelling stories through my music, evoking deep emotions that resonate with audiences. Whether composing for films, TV shows, video games, or concert music, I strive to create unique soundscapes that enhance the narrative and leave a lasting impression.
One of the projects I’m most proud of is the music I composed for My Piggy Boss, a popular romance-comedy web series now streaming on iQIYI, China’s leading platform. This project allowed me to combine playful and heartfelt themes that brought the story and characters to life. I also cherish my long-term collaboration with AVIA Games, where I craft soundtracks for mobile games that engage players through dynamic and immersive music. Additionally, I take great pride in my work with student filmmakers from prestigious institutions like NYU and Chapman University, as these collaborations allow me to contribute to fresh, emerging voices in storytelling.
What sets me apart is my ability to merge diverse influences into a cohesive, signature style. My classical piano background, coupled with my passion for modern music trends and deep respect for my Chinese heritage, allows me to create music that feels both timeless and innovative. I enjoy experimenting with different textures and blending cultural elements to craft scores that stand out and connect emotionally with global audiences.
Above all, I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built through my work. Every project is a collaboration, and I am grateful for the opportunities to work with talented directors, producers, and artists to bring stories to life through music.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
For me, success is about creating music that resonates with people on an emotional level and contributes meaningfully to the stories being told. It’s not just about accolades or recognition—it’s about the impact my work has on audiences and collaborators. When my music enhances a story, connects with listeners, or inspires someone, I consider that a success.
Success also means personal growth and staying true to my artistic voice. It’s about continuously challenging myself, exploring new ideas, and evolving as a composer. Each project, whether big or small, is an opportunity to learn and refine my craft.
Ultimately, success is finding fulfillment in what I do, building meaningful collaborations, and using my music to bridge cultures, tell stories, and evoke emotions. If my work leaves a positive impression on others and contributes to something greater than myself, then I’ve achieved success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://yaoyangcomposer.wixsite.com/yaoyang
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yaoyangliu_composer/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/patricklyy
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yaoyang-liu-7b0996181/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yaoyangliu1170
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/patrick-lau-428726639
