Meet David Cerquetti | Composer & Songwriter

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

Hi David, what are you inspired by?
I am a deeply sensitive person, easily moved by things that bring me joy, positivity, and peace. I have a sort of sixth sense that allows me to detect negativity and toxicity in the air. When I sense it, I distance myself, because those environments stifle my creativity. It’s peculiar—there are times when I go days or even weeks without writing, and then suddenly, for reasons I can’t explain, I feel connected to something greater than myself, almost as if I’m tapping into a transcendental force. In those moments, the words flow. I consider myself a messenger—it’s hard to put into words. Still, my family and my dog remain some of my most significant sources of inspiration.

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.
What sets me apart isn’t necessarily the music itself, but my approach to each film project. I have a unique workflow that I can’t say is better or worse than others—it’s just mine, and it works for me. I only take on projects where I’m involved from the very beginning, at the primal stage of production. I want to read the script first, so I can start thinking about the sonic world and soundscape that the film might have. For me, timbre is everything; I don’t focus on melody or harmony at first, those elements come later. The sound palette is what truly defines the uniqueness of a score.

Right now, for example, I’m working on an animated film, following this exact process. We’re exploring different paths and possibilities without the pressure of deadlines or rushing. We’re experimenting just for the sake of experimenting, knowing we have the time to do so. This freedom allows us to bring out the best in the music. When it’s time to write to the images, everything feels much easier.

I recently followed the same process on a horror film, The Curse Under the Mountain. We spent months exploring ideas, and the director even started using my music on set. Now, we’re beginning to write to the footage. The process may take longer, but it’s much more organic, and it fosters deep, lasting relationships with the collaborators.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh, there’s so much to do in the city! I’m definitely more of a nature person, so I’d start with a hike—Eaton Canyon is a great option, but there are so many incredible trails to explore. A little adventure in Joshua Tree would be worth it too. Afterward, I’d head into Downtown LA for dinner. It’s often underrated, but I think it has so many hidden gems—it’s actually one of my favorite spots. To top it off, I’d recommend a concert at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. That would be my ideal weekend itinerary for a friend.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
When you pursue a career like this, there are so many people to thank, and it’s impossible to mention them all. No matter how talented you are, achieving any level of recognition in this industry requires the support of others—people who believe in you and invest their time and energy to help you succeed.

Today, I’d like to give a special shoutout to Lawrence Shragge. He inspires me daily to be a better person first, and a better composer second. There’s truly no greater lesson. Lawrence has had an extraordinary career, and his unique stylistic voice is something I deeply admire. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have him as a mentor.

Website: https://www.davidcerquetti.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/david.cerquetti/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-cerquetti-151648192/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DavidCerquetti