As 2024 comes to a close, I’ve taken a moment to reflect on the incredible journey this year has been. From launching new initiatives to collaborating with talented individuals, it’s been a year full of growth, learning, and exciting milestones. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to share knowledge, create meaningful work, and connect with amazing people. Here’s a look back at some of the highlights that made 2024 such a memorable year.
Launch of the BA in Music with a Concentration in Media Scoring
In Fall 2024, I had the honor of developing and launching the Bachelor of Arts in Music with a concentration in Media Scoring at Virginia Commonwealth University. This innovative program is designed to equip students with the tools and skills they need to thrive in the fields of film, television, and video game scoring, bridging the gap between artistic creativity and industry demands. It’s incredibly rewarding to see this program take shape and to know that we’re shaping the future of media scoring education.
In-Person Workshop in São Paulo, Brazil
One of the standout moments of the year was the in-person workshop in São Paulo, which brought together students from across Brazil for an immersive experience in soundtrack composition. I had the privilege of organizing and leading this event, where we delved into the intricacies of composing for audiovisual media. We were joined by composer Maurício Domene, who shared invaluable insights about the music industry, inspiring all of us to push the boundaries of our creative work. It was a truly transformative experience, and I’m so grateful to everyone who participated.
“Ocean Storm” at the National Flute Association Convention
A highlight of my composition work this year was the performance of my flute piece, “Ocean Storm”, at the National Flute Association Convention in Texas. Being selected for such a prestigious event was a tremendous honor, and I’m thrilled that my music resonated with such a wide audience. The performance, in July 2024, was a powerful reminder of the emotional impact music can have in a live setting, and I’m thankful to the performers for bringing my work to life in such a beautiful way.
Live Film Score Performance at Virginia Commonwealth University
In September 2024, two of my original film scores, “Don’t Be Square” and “Flutterby”, were presented during Adamek’s Recital at Virginia Commonwealth University. It was an unforgettable experience to hear my compositions performed live by talented musicians, and I was grateful for the opportunity to showcase my work in this intimate and inspiring setting.
Don’t Be Square, an animated short film directed by Isaac Braz, was performed by a talented trio: Magdalena Adamek on piano, Justin Alexander on drums, and Aniyah Ricks on bass. This performance brought the rhythmic and jazzy elements of the score to life, perfectly complementing the quirky and vibrant world of the film. The chemistry between the musicians was palpable, and the audience responded enthusiastically to the dynamic interplay of piano, drums, and bass.
Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra Performance
Another milestone this year was the chance for my VCU students to have their compositions performed and recorded by the Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra under the direction of Hae Lee. This collaboration, in October 2024, was an incredible opportunity for my students to hear their music performed by a full orchestra, and it showcased the caliber of talent we have at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Jason Leung debuted as a composer with Adylis, a two-minute piece performed at the Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra fall concert. This milestone fulfilled Jason’s dream of composing for live orchestras and marked an exciting step in his career. Watch a snippet below:
Dr. Leitão has tirelessly worked to give his composition students opportunities to improve, to connect, and to share our progress and music. I am so grateful and excited that I got to see a live orchestra rehearse and record my piece, and glimpse at all of the considerations therein. This collaboration was irreplaceable, humbling, and very, very fun. - Jason Leung
Release of “Oração ao Vento”
In August 2024, I had the pleasure of producing the single “Oração ao Vento” for Julia Freitas. This piece was inspired by the magic and grandeur of Disney’s iconic musicals, and I’m proud of how it turned out. The release was a significant moment in my journey as a producer, and I’m excited to continue exploring new ways of bringing music to life through such collaborative projects.
Connecting Students Across Disciplines at VCU
One of the most rewarding aspects of my teaching this year was the opportunity to connect my media scoring students with peers from the Cinema and Computer Science departments at Virginia Commonwealth University. By fostering collaboration between these diverse fields, we were able to merge creativity with technology, resulting in innovative film and game projects. It was truly fulfilling to see my students gain practical experience working on cross-disciplinary teams and preparing for the professional world.
Workshops at Prestigious Events
2024 also saw me leading workshops at the University of São Paulo (USP) and the Amazon Eco Music Festival in Macapá, AP. These events gave me the chance to share my knowledge and insights with students and professionals from different parts of Brazil. It was inspiring to witness the enthusiasm and creativity of the participants, and I look forward to continuing to engage with these vibrant communities in the years to come.
Intensive Online Workshop on Media Scoring
In November 2024, I hosted a 3-day intensive online workshop with over 70 participants from all over the world. We explored the exciting world of composition for audiovisual media, discussing techniques, approaches, and creative strategies for scoring for film, TV, and video games. The energy and engagement from the participants were amazing, and I’m thrilled that we were able to dive deep into this fascinating field together.
As I look back on 2024, I’m filled with gratitude for the experiences and people who made this year so special. Whether it was through teaching, composing, or collaborating with fellow artists and students, each moment has been an opportunity for growth and inspiration. I’m excited for what’s to come in 2025 and can’t wait to continue sharing this journey with all of you.
Thank you for your support, and I look forward to creating more music, fostering creativity, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the year ahead.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on 2024 and your own highlights from the year. Feel free to reach out in the comments or on social media! Let’s continue to inspire each other as we step into the future.
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