Today we’d like to introduce you to Maddison Haan.
Hi Maddison, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
When I was six years old, I started taking piano lessons and I remember a lot of the time I would enjoy practicing pieces I was learning but always getting distracted by new melodies that I’d write. It was a recurring problem as I’d usually show up to my weekly lesson unprepared but there were always new ideas swarming in my ears that I couldn’t ignore. Something I’d often do instead of practicing is I’d play one of my favorite films and listen to scenes where the music swells then I’d pause and run to the piano to learn the scores by ear. When I look back on my younger years, I often think about how much those moments influenced the way that I tune in to film scores and how I compose today. I realize now it’s always been a part of my musicality and I’m so fortunate to be able to compose on a professional scale now. I think the younger me would probably bounce off the walls with excitement if she knew what we’re up to now. I’m pleased to say I am a full-time producer, composer, and artist.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Though childhood was kind to me, I’ve had some very formative challenges in my young adult years. One of the biggest challenges I faced was when I was 19 years old and my sister endured a life-threatening illness. It’s a long story, but what I remember about supporting her at her most critical points of health and along her recovery is how music was there for me in my own lowest points. I think when a loved one is sick, it can often be forgotten that the family and friends there to support are experiencing their own trauma and fear. I would sit by my sister in the hospital and write poems, lyrics, and compositions that really allowed me to pin down these wordless feelings in a way that made sense. It’s been nearly seven years since that trial and the meaning of music has only deepened as I’ve realized that it really kept me afloat through a very dark season. Looking back now, I’m grateful for the trial because it really showed me my strength and what I can endure. When I face new challenges these days, I know my past experiences are living proof that I can survive difficult times. Ultimately I see that as a gift that I never want to take for granted.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I believe what I create specifically is always evolving but at its core, the purpose has always been the same. My hope and desire with what my work is to give someone else the chance to feel seen and known when they encounter it. I’m an abstract-impressionist painter and a minimalist-classical composer and songwriter. My approach is “say more with less” whether that’s leaving space for music to breathe in a piece or parts of a canvas left untouched. There’s so much noise in this world and I intend to maintain an ethos of combatting the chaos in hopes it might be a gift to someone looking for a slice of peace and belonging.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I love most about Los Angeles is oftentimes what I dislike the most. I love the creative energy of the city where you can always find people creating new work, especially in the entertainment industry. It can be extremely inspiring and encouraging to see this lifestyle, however, I think there is a danger to subscribing to the grind mentality without balance. I’ve met a lot of people obsessed over being better, looking better, becoming more successful, or pursuing fame and wealth. I don’t believe that approaching true creativity in this way yields authentic and genuine results. I stand by the idea that if I’m in my calling and purpose, it’ll lift others up which is really what it’s all about to me. I see it as a delicate balance of being “in the world (or industry) but not of it”. There’s too much at stake to get hung up on things that ultimately will not leave a positive impact and legacy.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maddisonhaan/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maddie.haan.9
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdlWg-yTgso
- SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/maddie-haan
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/maddisonhaan.art/
Image Credits
Steve Goldshein Shane Roberts Amanda Muse
