Eric Schultheiss stands at the vanguard of contemporary composition, forging a unique path that bridges the rhythmic drive of global percussion with the infinite possibilities of digital sound. As a composer, percussionist, and educator, Schultheiss is acclaimed for his hybrid electro-acoustic works—pieces that fuse the organic pulse of drums with orchestral richness and the sonic innovation of modern electronics.

Rooted in a Southern California upbringing steeped in progressive rock, classical discipline, and the improvisational freedom of jazz, Schultheiss draws on a vast tapestry of influences. His music channels the off-kilter accents of Stewart Copeland, the lyrical intensity of Neil Peart, the storytelling depth of Peter Gabriel and Sting, and the progressive artistry of Genesis, Dream Theater, and Spock’s Beard. This synthesis results in compositions that are as intellectually rigorous as they are emotionally evocative.

Currently, as Head of Percussion Studies and Electro-Acoustic Composition at the Middle Tennessee Conservatory of Music, Schultheiss is an outspoken advocate for the DAW as a true instrument. In his hands, digital workstations become canvases for sonic experimentation, allowing for real-time orchestration, microscopic precision, and the layering of polyrhythms and timbres that would be impossible with traditional notation alone. He champions technology not as a shortcut, but as an authentic extension of the composer’s voice.

Signature works such as Lights Twinkle—a Christmas percussion-ensemble piece blending Japanese Taiko, harp, and haiku-inspired vocal textures—showcase his ability to unite tradition with innovation. Airidea’s Journal explores the dialogue between structure and freedom through dance-driven percussion and atmospheric synths, while As You Sleep and Terminal Memory reveal Schultheiss’ penchant for ambient soundscapes, introspective melodies, and cross-media collaborations. His compositions have been commissioned for film, dance, and multimedia productions, performed by leading ensembles, and praised for their intricate interplay of rhythm and resonance.

As an educator, Schultheiss is dedicated to shaping musicians who are not only technically skilled but also creatively fluent in both acoustic and digital modalities. At the Middle Tennessee Conservatory, he mentors young composers in hybrid techniques, polyrhythmic structures, and DAW-based workflows, encouraging them to embrace technology as a creative partner. His influence extends beyond the classroom, as he helps students gain visibility in the digital era and equips them to thrive in an evolving musical landscape.

Through his relentless curiosity, innovative spirit, and commitment to artistic growth, Eric Schultheiss is redefining what it means to be a composer in the 21st century. His work is a testament to the power of bridging tradition and technology, and to the limitless frontiers that await those willing to explore them.

My name is David O'Hearn and I am a composer, musician, actor and music producer. (In case you haven't guessed, I am the D in playD).

 I play guitar, keyboards, bass and do vocal work (both musical and voice-overs). With over 40years of experience in a variety of styles, I can also lend my experience to music production and arranging, as well as an instrumentalist.

I have been performing in local musical and dramatic theatre since 2005, having appeared in over 60 productions to date.

I also run a project studio in Mississauga, Ontario (west of Toronto).

The studio is used to provide music and/or music production for a variety of projects, including music for film, tv and radio.  My project studio is ideal for singer/songwriter projects as well.  I have produced demos for a few local artists and look forward to future collaborations.

As a composer, I have written over 70 pieces of music in a single calendar year (2009) alone.

Most recently, I wrote, performed and recorded the score for a short film called Severance (due out in July 2010).

I am also currently in production with another short film, which is an adaptation of a Stephen King short story, "Suffer The Little Children", with Moonlit Road Entertainment (where I am resident composer).

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