Standish913.com has been blessed to do an exclusive interview with...
"JOHN MASSARI"
John Massari is a cherished American composer.
Creating music for iconic brands such as Disney, HBO, MGM and Sony Pictures, Massari's innovative gifts have proven greatly versatile.
Film music's powerful influence drew him to explore creating original music at age 6 as he began playing the piano, trumpet and bass. While performing in student orchestras and rock bands, Massari studied musical composition privately at Chapman University. At the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) earning the Frank Sinatra Music Award for composition, studying composition and orchestration with Henri Lazarof, and David Raksin as well as private studies with Dr. Albert Harris and Leonard Stein at the University of Southern California (USC).
John Massari's Extreme Music catalog is featured in countless trailers, TV series, features and video games credited as John Massari, Biggy G and David Inlander.
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Let's get into some exclusive questions...
STANDISH: You are the composer for 1988's "Killer Klowns From Outer Space," how'd you land that & did you project it being a cult classic?
JOHN: I was fortunate to land the opportunity to compose the score for "Killer Klowns From Outer Space" through a combination of my musical background and a personal introduction to the film's creators, the Chiodo Brothers. They seemed impressed with my work up until that time. Before we collaborated on this project, I was required to audition for the composer position with several other composers.
While working on the film, we had so much fun with this unique, crazy, quirky, classic creation from the Brothers. We didn't anticipate it becoming a cult classic at the time. Secretly, that was my wish all along. Still, it had the potential to be a memorable and entertaining film. The cult following it has garnered over the years has been a delightful surprise. The ever-growing fan base has showered this film with love for the past 35 years. A gift that no marketing firm could have initiated.
STANDISH: How does it feel to be a part of the Disney legacy?
JOHN: Being a part of the Disney legacy is an incredible honor. Disney has a rich history of producing timeless and beloved films and music. I had the privilege of contributing to Disney's legacy through my work on various Disney projects, and it's a source of pride for me, especially since I grew up in the neighborhood of Disneyland. The Magic Kingdom's sparkle may have made its way into my psyche. It all seemed so surreal at the time.
STANDISH: You worked with "Little House On The Prairie," can you tell us more?
JOHN: My work on "Little House on the Prairie" was an apprenticeship. Veteran composer David Rose handed me on for two seasons. It was a great experience to be a part of an iconic series while at the same time learning the ropes from such a seasoned professional. Their insights and the composing philosophy Mr Rose guided me through are with me to this very day.
STANDISH: You did 12 episodes of "Hoarders," how'd you land that?
JOHN: My music on "Hoarders" was placed in the series via a production music company called Extreme Music. Part of Sony Music. They administer my music under several "pen names." Among of them being David Inlander.
STANDISH: You did 15 episodes of "Impractical Jokers," what was this like for you?
JOHN: Same. With Extreme Music
STANDISH: Tell us a little about your overall mission, John -
JOHN: My overall mission as a composer is to create an emotional experience. I strive to connect with the audiences emotionally, no matter the genre.
I aim to make a meaningful impact with my work.
STANDISH: You've got 300+ IMDb credits. What's your favorite? Do you prefer a particular genre when composing?
JOHN: No. Each project has its unique qualities and challenges.
As for genre preferences, I don't have one. If I am able to express myself musically; I'm all in.
STANDISH: What can we look forward to in the future from you?
JOHN: In the future, I plan to continue creating music for film, games, and live musical experiences.
STANDISH: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
JOHN: In five years, I see myself developing my live musical experiences and performing worldwide.
STANDISH: Who are some of your mentors?
JOHN: Jerry Fielding and Bill Conti.
STANDISH: What keeps you motivated to stay great?
JOHN: Being present for the fans of the various brands I create music for. Especially the Killer Klowns from Outer Space Universe. They are wonderfully loyal and a joy to interact with.
STANDISH: During COVID, we all faced struggles. What was one of your main struggles?
JOHN: Covid allowed me to focus on many music projects while exploring my musical creative world.
STANDISH: Where can fans find your work?
JOHN: Fans can find my work on social media and various streaming platforms, such as Spotify, YouTube, Apple Music, and Soundcloud.
STANDISH: Anything you'd like to include?
JOHN: I want to thank all the fans who have supported my work over the years. Their enthusiasm and appreciation for the music of Killer Klowns, in particular, have brought Klowns out of obscurity and into American Pop Culture.
STANDISH: What are your social links?
JOHN: You can connect with me and stay updated on my projects through my official website and social media profiles.
Here are some of my social links -
https://www.instagram.com/john.massari/
https://www.facebook.com/johnmassari
https://twitter.com/johnmassari
https://www.instagram.com/johnmassari/
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Thanks so much for your time!
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