Meet Jiwoo Lee | Film and Media Composer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jiwoo Lee and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jiwoo, what is the most important factor behind your success?
While it might be a bit early to declare my music career a “success,” I believe the most significant factor in my progress is my passion for movies. I’ve been immersed in music my entire life, developing skills in piano and acquiring perfect pitch from a young age. However, my love for watching movies and TV series often surpasses my love for music. This led me to combine my interests and choose a major that aligns with both my passion and my skills.

As I delve deeper into film composition, I realize it’s more about understanding and focusing on the film rather than the music itself. Another crucial factor is communication skills. Effective communication with project teams and a deep understanding of the film’s theme, characters, and direction are essential. Music, while important and precious to me, is just one element of a film. My role is to enhance the film through music and sound, making the overall experience better.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
The most exciting aspect of my journey in this field is its unpredictability. You never know who you’ll meet, what projects you’ll work on, or what opportunities lie ahead. This uncertainty can also be challenging, presenting both positive and negative aspects of the industry.

Reaching my current professional level was certainly not easy, and the path ahead remains demanding. However, my unwavering positivity and belief have always been my guiding lights. These qualities have helped me navigate through difficulties and remain essential in life. The ability to find positivity even in pain, and the courage to continue despite setbacks, have been pivotal in my journey.

One key lesson I’ve learned is the importance of finishing what you start. As someone who battles with perfectionism, I’ve come to understand that it doesn’t always yield the best results. Sometimes, even if a piece of music doesn’t fully satisfy you, it’s part of the creative process. Embracing this mindset has allowed me to grow and continue pursuing my passion with resilience.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Firstly, I attribute my journey to God’s plan. His guidance gives me courage and protection, and I follow His path with confidence. I would also like to give a heartfelt shoutout to my parents, my sister Yeonwoo, and my family in Korea. Their unwavering support and love have been foundational to my music career, and I deeply appreciate their role as my biggest fans.

I am incredibly grateful to Lawrence Shragge, one of the best composers in the world and a remarkable mentor in my life. Working as his assistant has been an invaluable experience, and I am thankful for the path we are walking together.

Lastly, I want to recognize my life partner, Sam. His constant support and love have been instrumental in my journey, and I eagerly look forward to the future we will build together.

Website: https://www.jiwooleemusic.com/

Instagram: @jiwooleemusic