Creative Pep Talk 531 - Risks that Land Big Jobs, Be Your Own Client & Find Your Sound with Composer Oli Julian
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Nov 19, 2025 Oli Julian, a talented composer known for his work on Netflix's The Twits and Sex Education, shares insights into his creative journey. He discusses how inspiration from films like Eternal Sunshine reshaped his approach to scoring. Oli explores the balance between client work and personal projects, emphasizing the importance of finding a unique voice. He candidly reveals the challenges of writing his own album after years of working to briefs, and highlights the role of distinctive sounds and personal experiences in shaping his compositions.
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Film Scores Can Be Unconventional
- Oli Julian realized film scores could be unconventional after hearing Eternal Sunshine and that shifted his career vision.
- He learned less-is-more and that non-orchestral sounds fit powerful storytelling in modern scoring.
From Languages To Studio Runner To TV Composer
- Oli switched from a languages degree to a master's in music production and started at the bottom as a studio runner.
- He progressed into jingles, became a staff writer, then used TV gigs to go freelance and focus on longer-form scoring.
Craftsmanship Enables Creative Growth
- Working on adverts taught Oli versatility and craft: write quickly in many styles to a high standard.
- That craftsmanship paved a path to longer-form ambitions once he wanted more creative canvas.
