Marietta Emmy Winning Composer Headlining Huge Saturday Gala

MARIETTA, GA -- Emmy Award-winning composer and Marietta native Matthew Head will headline the Atlanta Youth Wind Symphony’s upcoming 30th anniversary gala on Saturday, May 18, at the Commerce Club in Atlanta. At the event – dubbed “A Night in Hollywood” – he will share insights and his unique perspective from working in the entertainment industry.

At age 5, Head began playing piano and by age 12 began writing music. His mother, a school teacher, played instrumental, jazz, and new age music in their Marietta home while the
future composer/ producer found joy listening to the Michael Jackson albums produced by Quincy Jones. He later went to Savannah State University on a football scholarship but ended up dropping out to pursue music and returned to Marietta where he landed a job at a small studio in Smyrna.

Head continued pursuing his gift, and through that he landed projects with Capital Records and
Atlantic Records. Through one of his contacts, he was introduced to the TV and film industry, and since 2008 he transitioned from producing albums to composing and scoring only.

Patch caught up with Head to ask him a few questions about his career in music and why music education is so important.

What inspired you to pursue a career in music?

Music has always played a huge role in my life. My goal was to become a history teacher and
writing music was a hobby of mine. I started getting recognized for my talents, which led me to
some amazing opportunities that jump started my career.

Why do you think that organizations like the AYWS – that provide competitive musical opportunities beyond the typical high school band room – are important for students?

I will support a program that allows musicians to grow within their talents. AYWS is an amazing
program that is beneficial to our musical climate by giving young musicians the exposure and
opportunities that they won’t experience in a high school band. My goal is to bring attention to
young talent.

What advice do you have for aspiring musicians and/or composers?

Keep learning and working on your craft and music. Develop your sound and strategically use it
when needed. Music is forever changing and has a lot moving parts. You have to continue to
reinvent yourself.

How do you think learning and performing music helps prepare students for the future, regardless of whether or not they later pursue music as a career?

Music will bring structure, focus, and discipline. Music is an excellent self-esteem and team-
building source – reliable skills that are needed in the workforce.

Why do you think music is so important in today’s world?

Where would we be without music? Music has changed and saved lives. It dictates our moods
and attitudes in our society. It is the modern language that all human beings can relate to.