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

Hi Alex, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
Last year, I got the opportunity to volunteer at a startup nonprofit called Through The Staff where talented musicians from across the country provide free virtual, private lessons to students lacking access in music education. As someone who didn’t have the chance to foster early musicianship, I really believe in the values and the mission of this nonprofit. I certainly know what it’s like to feel small in a room full of unimaginable talent, so Through The Staff seeks to not only help young musicians break barriers, but also wants every young musician to feel included.

 

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My music isn’t anything brilliant or exploratory. I strive to just write music that I would hear and enjoy in my favorite games or movies. I consider myself a student as I’ve only really composed music for a little over two years. If I were to say anything that might differentiate me, is I’ve made great efforts to better my craft in a short amount of time. I don’t have the standard childhood upbringing, but I know proactiveness and resourcefulness can get me pretty close. It certainly wasn’t easy and never will be. It definitely was challenging to overcome the feeling of isolation from not sharing the same backgrounds as other musicians. I’ve learned that even being in a room where you don’t feel like you belong, it’s always worth recognizing that you’re included. It’s good to take note that despite your journey being a wildly different route, it’s the same destination and it’s worth being proud of doing things differently.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’ve had quite a few teachers, professors, and mentors who all deserve recognition for where I’m currently at now. If I were to pick someone, it would have to be Able Artist Foundation executive director and founder, Stephen Letnes. He has been an incredible mentor, friend, and ally for underrepresented musicians like myself.

Website: alexdengmusic.com

Instagram: alexdengmusic

Image Credits
Northern Film Orchestra Lunartales Games Budapest Scoring Orchestra

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