Hi there and welcome to one my latest compositions for Music For Brains, 'Arduinna' 

This track is inspired by the Celtic Goddess of the Forest. 

Arduinna, Gaulish Goddess of Forests and Hunting is one of the many Celtic Goddesses who is associated with a particular region or body of water.  She was worshipped in the heavily forested regions of the Ardennes, located in what is current day Belgium and Luxembourg with small portions found in France and Germany. She was also associated with the Forest of Arden in England. Her name has its roots in the Gaulish word “arduo” meaning “height”.

I like the thought of the Ancient association with deities that influenced the passing of time and the more basic needs, harvest, forests, hunting, fertility etc, before the world was as complicated and fast paced. 

In this track I imagine wondering through an ancient woodland on a spring morning with the sunlight tracing beams through the woodland canopy, casting pools of light across the forest floor.

Composition, All Instruments, Arrangement & Production: Matt Baker

Recorded in Yew Tree Studios Liverpool

I hope you enjoy this track and a short rest to reflect upon the wonder of nature.

Comments and feedback most welcome

All the best for now, Matt

Arduinna - Music For Brains

Music has always been an integral part of my life. From my earliest memories, it has shaped how I express my emotions and bring my creative ideas to life. Whether it was hours spent with a slightly out-of-tune upright piano or strumming on my sister's guitar, I was hooked. While I struggled with traditional music theory and never quite mastered reading or writing music, my passion for sound and composition only grew.

My journey truly began with a Casio VL-Tone, a keyboard that allowed me to record simple melodies. Throughout my teenage years, I poured countless hours and resources into building my first collection of music gear, recording everything from theme songs to pop and punk covers with friends. In my early twenties, I played in several bands and immersed myself in the live music scene, which was a great experience but often came with late nights and long hours.

During this time, I also began exploring electronic music more seriously, acquiring my first proper setup: a Kawai keyboard, Technics sequencer, Alesis HR16 drum machine, and a Yamaha MT100 4-track recorder. These tools opened up new possibilities and inspired me to experiment with electronic music production and midi-based compositions.

A lifelong fan of science fiction, fantasy, and cinematic soundtracks, I soon found myself gravitating toward composing thematic music. Movies, being my second greatest passion, heavily influenced the direction of my creative work.

In my 30s, life’s demands shifted my focus toward career and family, but my love for music never waned. Entering my 40s, I had the opportunity to refocus, acquiring new gear and fully committing to my musical development. With the help of modern technology, I now have a home studio where I can bring my musical ideas to life with greater precision and depth.

My current setup includes a Korg Triton LE, Cubase 12, Nektar LE88, Steinberg UR824 interface, and an array of VSTs such as Kontakt, Halion Sonic SE, Retrologue, and EastWest Symphonic Choirs, among others. This home studio, built over nearly a decade, allows me to push creative boundaries and explore new sounds and compositions.

Based in Liverpool, I’m currently writing is almost every style. Rock songs for my band Inner Fire. Pop tracks inspired by the 80's and 90's. Theme music inspired by film and literature with the aspiration of one day scoring a full-length production. 

Since joining SoundCloud, I've had the privilege of connecting with talented musicians and creative minds from around the world. One of the most fulfilling collaborations has been with John Styles, where we’ve explored a wide range of musical genres. 

I’m also proud to serve as the principal composer for Music for Brains, a project dedicated to healing through music and creativity. Working on this project has been deeply rewarding, as it has allowed me to connect with individuals on an emotional level, crafting compositions inspired by their stories.

I’m always open to feedback and collaboration, as it helps me refine my craft. While working in the music industry is a dream, I am also a grateful family man, and the support of my loved ones plays a crucial role in fuelling my passion. I am thankful to have such a strong network of family and friends who encourage me to keep pursuing my musical ambitions.

If you're in need of music for a production or project, feel free to reach out. I would be excited to contribute my creativity and help bring your vision to life.

Thank you for taking the time to explore my music—I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,

Matt

Arduinna - Music For Brains

MattBaker1970