NEWS   04.11.2008 > New Composition "The Soul Of Roses" added to the "Music Page", a captivating and emotional piece. All the best, Tor Erik
..Male, 28 year old electronica producer and film score writer from Norway. Started practising and playing organ at the age of 10 and later started playing the piano. After 3-4 years at a local music school, it was mostly about selfstudying..

At the age of 16 I started experimenting with sounds and after a year I had developed a interest towards producing. The first productions were mainly aimed at commercial/euro trance, but then I started working more on the melodic field.

After 2-3 years, I spent a great deal of time composing film music. The first arrangements were piano pieces and mostly solo instrumental work, but I then found interest towards symphonic orchestral arrangements. I developed a taste for this genre and enjoyed working with bigger and more complex arrangements.

I later started to include string arrangements and symphonic lines within electronica. I merged non-acoustic with acoustic genres and thought it was both exciting and fascinating.

In 2003/04 I started to get more serious about Rhythm'n'base/Big Beat producing and again it was the density and complexity of the genre that captured me. I enjoyed to have a huge amount of freedom in the area of sound editing and beat programming, but at the same time having the opportunity to include live acoustic instruments in the productions.

Basically I've been focusing on two highly independent genres where film music has been the number one category when it comes to work with melodic arrangements, and electronica for the more experimental and technical artistry.

For the last two years I've for the most part focused on film music, but also worked in the electronic line. I must admit that I prioritize film music in these times because I find it more fitting and suitable for my needs to express my emotions.

I could not think of any better way to stimulate my emotions and my soul than to compose film music. I get to express my inner passion by working in this genre and since I've been a former instrumentalist I also find joy spending time playing the piano.

Music is my life and to see others benefit from my artistic material makes me continue being active as a musician. Actually for a long time, I have been clear about the fact that I want to work by myself and not get tied to any contracts and labels that prevent me from working in a style that I'm comfortable with.

Maybe one day I might consider responding to the commercial interest regarding my artistry. Still, the freedom and the flexibility by working alone and being independent is the main reason why I so much enjoy producing. But times are always changing and the way I look upon things also change during time. Who knows where I might be in a couple of years. It is both frightening and exciting to think about.

However, music will for certain be my best friend for as long as I live and follow me all the way to my gravestone. Music defines me as a person and I have found myself through the music.


All the best,
Tor Erik Arntzen
Why this name?
I picked my bandname in the beginning while I was experimenting and getting a taste for producing. At first it wasn't a name that I decided to use, but as time went by I still used the same alias.
Do you play live?
I don't play live. At least not for the moment. I compose music and have listeners throughout the internet. Maybe later, I'll transfer my music to the "live scene".
How, do you think, does the internet (or mp3) change the music industry?
Well, obviously enough; The internet is a goldmine for unsigned musicians. Internet makes spreading your artist material easy, when it comes to services like "SoundClick" and other music communities. And by releasing your tracks over internet, you get to work within your own musical style, as there are many "groups" of listeners available. I believe, that internet is a goldmine, when it comes to artists that haven't been signed yet. It's a way to make yourself get heard, and a way to improve your skills as you'll get feedback from professional artists and other general artists in the same genre.
Would you sign a record contract with a major label?
I would, if the label compiled me a satisfactory deal. I think it's every artists dream, to get signed with a major label. I've had some offers, but yet I haven't approved my interest. But if the right offer comes across my musical path, then I will seriously evaluate the offer.
Your influences?
I had many musical influences in the beginning, as towards respective artists within the underground / alternative and the mainstream community. Regarding the classical compositions, the most important influences and inspirations to me, must be the nature and the complexity of life. As to how I feel and look upon different phases and moments in time, do play an important part for the atmosphere and mood I reflect through my compositions.
Favorite spot?
I don't know about that one. I have so many favorite spots and cities around the world. Too many to write down.
Equipment used:
In my line of production I use : "Access Virus C", "Novation Supernova", "Roland JP-8080", "Yamaha CS6X" master synth, "Behringer UB2442FX-Pro" mixer, "MOTU MIDI Express 128", "Creamware Pulsar 2" soundcard, "Mackie/Logic Control", "Mackie HR-824" active studio monitors and a customized DAW system. As for the MTR I use "Steinberg Nuendo 3" & "Cubase 4". I also use many VST and VSTi modules in my production that fits my preferred genres.
Anything else...?
Well, that would be all. ! I hope you enjoy my music, and please send me some feedback to my private e-mail adress : "t-eria@online.no".

Take care now! =)
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