Meet Carlotta Romano | Composer for film and multimedia

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

Hi Carlotta, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I believe taking risks has been crucial in getting me to where I am today. Every decision involves some degree of risk, and I think the choices that push you out of your comfort zone tend to be the most rewarding in the long run. One example from my own life illustrates this well. After graduating with my Bachelor’s in the UK, I moved back to Abu Dhabi, where my parents lived, to take a teaching position at a top British international school. Although I enjoyed sharing my musical knowledge and passion for singing, I knew deep down that I wasn’t truly fulfilled. With little hope, I applied to a few graduate schools in the US for their “Screen Scoring” programs and was accepted into NYU. This acceptance completely changed my life for the better, allowing me to grow rapidly as a composer, musician, and person. From this experience, I learned that taking risks is essential, even if sometimes things don’t work out. At least you can say you tried.

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.
I am a composer for film and multimedia which means I write music that fits visual storytelling, whether that’s documentaries, films, shows, advertisements and so on.

I started off learning the violin at the age of five and eventually learnt the piano in my early teenage years. The piano was where I really let my creativity flow—I could finally bring the sounds and melodies I imagined in my head to life. I spent so much time there. One day, my mom said my music sounded like “something out of a movie”, and that was it for me. From then on, I set my mind that that’s what I would be doing ‘when I grow up’.

After pursuing my Bachelor’s in Music in the UK, I decided to embark on getting my Master degree in Screen Scoring at NYU. Getting to where I am now, at the start of my career, hasn’t been easy. And choosing to relocate across the world to chase your lifelong dream isn’t straightforward. Leaving behind my family, friends, and the life I had established during my year working in Abu Dhabi after graduating wasn’t a decision I made lightly. However, looking back, it was undoubtedly the best choice I could have made. It taught me the invaluable lesson of persevering for what you truly believe in and never giving up on your dreams.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love this question! It is currently summertime in New York City, and I recently met up with a couple of filmmaker friends who came into town. They asked me for recommendations on places to eat and spots to visit.

Beyond the well-known landmarks, you should explore “Little Island” and take a riverside walk to enjoy stunning views of the skyline. West Village stands out as one of my favorite areas in the city, with its unique restaurants and charming ambiance. Nearby, you’ll find Chelsea and the Meatpacking District, each offering their own distinctive appeal and culinary delights.

The High Line is a must-visit spot! This beautiful walking path, built on an old railway track, allows you to stroll through some of the city’s coolest buildings while enjoying diverse views. Speaking of views, make sure to go up one of the skyscrapers. “The Edge”, the most modern one, offers an incredibly cool and exciting experience!

Regarding restaurants, I have loads of favorites, but here are a few top recommendations: “Tivoli Trattoria” is a charming Italian spot in the West Village, known for its excellent Aperol Spritz. “Spicy Moon” is a fantastic vegan restaurant offering a variety of Asian dishes in a cool, inviting setting. If you want to try more authentic Asian food, I recommend “Blue Ribbon,” another excellent choice.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has crossed my path since I moved to New York. A special shoutout goes to each and every person I have become friends with or interacted with. You have all enriched my life and taught me something new, whether it’s directly related to work or about life in general. By connecting with people who share common interests and goals, I have discovered more about myself. From the NYU community I was introduced to when I first moved here, to the wonderful individuals I have met in the filmmaking and music industries, I am thankful for every single connection.

Website: https://www.carlottaromano.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlottaromano_/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlotta-romano-6879711b5

Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm14924221/