South African Pianist Takes on the Global Stage | Ep145

What does it take to turn a childhood love for music into a global career in film and TV composition?In this episode of the Gen C Podcast, we sit down with Mikhaila Alyssa Smith — a New York-based composer, pianist, and self-proclaimed “hybrid” creative blending classical training with cinematic storytelling.From being inspired by the iconic Pirates of the Caribbean soundtrack at just 11 years old, to studying at University of Cape Town, and eventually stepping into the global stage of film and TV music — Mikhaila shares her full journey.We dive into:🎼 What it really means to be a film & TV composer🌆 Life and creative energy in New York City🧠 Building routines as a music writer, orchestrator & pianist🎧 Her debut album NOIR and artistic identity🏃‍♀️ Running the New York Marathon & balancing life beyond music🍵 Her unexpected love for matchaPlus, fun moments with the Gen C crew:🎤 A surprise GAME from Gabby💬 A powerful conversation on purpose and finding your “why”❤️ A message of hope inspired by “Story Run with Nkosi”This episode is a blend of inspiration, education, and pure creative energy — whether you're an artist, creative, or just chasing your passion — This one's for YOU!! 👉 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT & SUBSCRIBE for more real conversations.Instagram 👉🏽 https://www.instagram.com/genc_pod/TikTok 👉🏽 https://www.tiktok.com/@genc_pod/FOLLOW MIKHAILA ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikhailacomposer/Website: https://www.mikhailasmith.com/00:00 Intro and Welcome 02:22 Who is Mikhaila Smith04:52 What is Your Art12:50 Music in Film making16:00 Skills Needed22:43 Musical Terms Trivia29:08 Mystical Part of Music32:39 Working for Netflix33:59 How do YOU consume Music38:14 Living in New York42:54 Day in the Life44:46 Solo Album53:25 Surprise Game01:00:30 Message of Hope01:02:35 Say Ma Now01:09:17 Plug and Younger Self01:12:47 Question for the Hosts01:18:22 Outro🚨 Application link for ZAIO institute of Technology courses:👉🏽 https://applications.zaio.io/?referral=0NKG39M1 🚨 Unique GENC promo code: 👉🏽 0NKG39M1 get R1000 off any course of your choosing Ts an Cs apply For Business inquiries and Topics contact📧: [email protected] For Podcast Production and Studio Bookings contact 👉🏽[email protected] ‼️DISCLAIMER‼️: The information provided by the speakers/presenters on this Platform is for General Information purposes only