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What makes a composer tick? In this absorbing conversation with Dylan Glatthorn, we explore the unexpected creative influences that have shaped his musical identity. From a shy child with a toy piano to an accomplished composer for theater, film, and television, Dylan's journey reveals how early artistic experiences can profoundly shape a creative career.
Dylan takes us back to his childhood in Tampa Bay, where The Beatles served as the "connecting glue" between his parents' different musical tastes – especially meaningful after their divorce. This early exposure to melodic innovation established his appreciation for music that balances emotional vulnerability with technical precision, a hallmark of his own compositional approach.
The conversation delves into the nuanced storytelling of Sondheim's "Assassins," which captivated Dylan with its ability to navigate morally complex territory while balancing serious themes with sharp comedy. Similarly, Laura Marling's album "Once I Was an Eagle" demonstrates the power of music that is "both tender and subtle but also big and heartbreakingly forward" – a quality Dylan strives for in his own work.
When discussing Spielberg's "Jurassic Park," Dylan analyzes how John Williams' score enhances the story without overpowering it, while Paul Thomas Anderson's "There Will Be Blood" showcases Johnny Greenwood's experimental approach to film music. These contrasting influences reflect Dylan's versatility as a composer who can move between traditional melodic structures and more innovative techniques.
Throughout our conversation, Dylan articulates a creative philosophy centered on authenticity: "Keep writing what you like, not what you think other people will like." This principle guides his current project "The Pelican," a musical about a coastal Florida town facing complete destruction from an approaching hurricane. Whether you're a fellow creator or simply curious about the artistic process, this episode offers valuable insights into how diverse influences coalesce into a unique creative voice.

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