Scoring Films by Ear: How Matthew Cravener Navigates Dyslexia, Tourette’s, & Hollywood Composition

Film composer and classically trained pianist Matthew Cravener joins Overeducated & Underemployed to break down the mechanics of composing cinematic scores without the ability to read sheet music. Striking a massive contrast to traditional academic routes, Matthew explains how severe dyslexia forced him to develop an unconventional workflow—moving from melodies caught by ear at age four to tracking complex arrangements inside a digital audio workstation.The conversation goes deep into the harsh realities of neurodivergence and severe illness. Matthew details the sudden onset of Tourette syndrome at age 11, the toll of intense middle school bullying, and a four-year period where he was completely bedridden and unable to play the piano. He shares how Bruce Broughton’s orchestral score for Homeward Bound re-anchored his relationship with music, eventually leading him to score major indie dramas, faith-based documentaries like Repair the Breach, and upcoming projects featuring Dermot Mulroney.Producer's Note: We extend our deepest condolences to Matthew and his family. Unexpectedly, Matthew’s father passed away shortly after this recording was tracked. Matthew was highly intent on getting this episode out to the public, and we present this conversation in honor of that dedication.🔗 Connect With Our GuestOfficial Website: http://www.matthewcravener.com/SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/matthewspianoIMDb Pro: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm7458595/Stream Repair the Breach: https://www.repairthebreachmovie.com/Theme Song by Sloan Brothers : http://open.spotify.com/artist/1Z0YyvTetovciEDRoRNudBNew Album By Sloan Brothers: https://sloanbrothers.bandcamp.com/album/love-other-diagnosesTitle inspired by Lee Bains III: https://www.thegloryfires.com/ https://www.patreon.com/Feddun