Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Affiliations
References
Timeline
Generic

John Davidson

Portlaoise,Laois

Summary

Experienced composer focused on creating evocative and memorable musical scores. Craft compelling compositions that enhance visual media through unique harmonisation and innovative sound design. Deliver tailored musical solutions to meet specific project needs.

Overview

37
37
years of professional experience

Work history

Music composer

Freelance
Portlaoise, Ireland
2020.03 - Current
  • Composed original music for various film projects, enhancing emotional depth.
  • Enhanced cinematic experience by composing riveting scores for films.
  • Orchestrated musical arrangements for orchestras, contributing to rich performances.
  • Produced theme songs for television series that resonated with audiences worldwide.

Violin teacher

Music Generation
Portlaoise, Ireland
2011.09 - Current

Instructed large groups of primary school students in violin techniques and music fundamentals.

  • Coordinated student recitals, enhancing their confidence and public performance skills.
  • Fostered a supportive learning atmosphere through positive reinforcement during lessons.

Band musician

Freelance
Portlaoise, Laois
2007.01 - Current
  • Wrote, recorded, and mixed over 10 albums and singles for radio release and merchandise during extensive European tours, showcasing musical versatility and creativity.
  • Delivered engaging performances across Ireland and mainland Europe, enhancing audience connections and band reputation.
  • Travelled extensively for concerts and tours, expanding the band's reach regionally and internationally.
  • Performed with Cua, The Outcast Crew, Global Trad Underground, and The Kill Nashvilles at diverse venues, contributing to unique musical experiences.

Violin teacher

The Laois School of Music
Portlaoise, Laois
2006.09 - Current
  • Taught group and individual classes, preparing students for ABRSM and RIAM music exams.
  • Led youth orchestra through rehearsals and performances, enhancing teamwork and musical skills.
  • Managed adult ensemble's rehearsals and concerts, fostering a collaborative and engaging musical environment.

Session musician

Freelance
Nashville, America
2004.09 - 2006.07
  • Performed live music sessions for various country acts, showcasing talent to A&R representatives and touring extensively across America
  • Learned new musical styles quickly, diversifying set list options.
  • Performed under pressure during high-profile events demonstrating resilience and professionalism.
  • Responded creatively to feedback from producers resulting in enhanced final product.

Company Manager and fiddle player

Freelance
, America
2002.01 - 2004.01
  • Coordinated schedules and performances for 40 dancers across 6 daily shows, ensuring seamless execution at Busch Gardens, Tampa and Virginia, USA
  • Aligned all business functions with strategic objectives, leading to increased overall performance.

Music composer

Freelance
Edinburgh, Scotland
2000.01 - 2001.01
  • Composed music for productions including Mull Little Theatre’s Kidnapped, Theatre Babel’s Peter Pan, Tam Dean Burn’s Bobby Sands Trilogy, and The Life of Robert Burns, enhancing the emotional depth and audience engagement of each performance.
  • Contributed original compositions to successful theatre productions increasing overall performance appreciation.
  • Adapted score to fit changes in script or scene, maintaining narrative coherence.
  • Produced theme songs for television series that resonated with audiences worldwide.

Stage manager

The Traverse Theatre, Theatre Babel, Communicado,
Edinburgh/Glasgow, Scotland
1990.01 - 2001.01
  • Managed rehearsals effectively, ensuring smooth running of each performance.
  • Collaborated with directors and producers for successful stage productions.
  • Collaborated with directors and producers across theatre companies to deliver high-quality stage productions.
  • Managed venues and coordinated logistics for small and international tours during Edinburgh International Festival, enhancing audience experience.
  • Adapted quickly to last-minute changes in scripts or staging requirements without compromising quality of production.

Education

Advanced diploma in Jazz - Music

St Andrews University
St Andrews Scotland
01/2008 - 01/2009

Diploma in Stage Management - Stage Management

Queen Margaret College
Edinburgh
09/1997 - 06/2000

Grade 1 through 8 violin - Music

ABRSM
Aberdeen Scotland
01/1976 - 01/1996

Skills

Write and score for multiple string instruments

Record and mix for multiple instruments

Genre creation

Film scoring

Ability to read and conduct score

Sound design

Live performance execution

Affiliations

  • Gardening and cooking

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Music composer

Freelance
2020.03 - Current

Violin teacher

Music Generation
2011.09 - Current

Band musician

Freelance
2007.01 - Current

Violin teacher

The Laois School of Music
2006.09 - Current

Session musician

Freelance
2004.09 - 2006.07

Company Manager and fiddle player

Freelance
2002.01 - 2004.01

Music composer

Freelance
2000.01 - 2001.01

Stage manager

The Traverse Theatre, Theatre Babel, Communicado,
1990.01 - 2001.01

Grade 1 through 8 violin - Music

ABRSM
01/1976 - 01/1996

Diploma in Stage Management - Stage Management

Queen Margaret College
09/1997 - 06/2000

Advanced diploma in Jazz - Music

St Andrews University
01/2008 - 01/2009
John Davidson