We were lucky to catch up with Erick Del Aguila recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Erick, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
Recently, I had the privilege of writing the music score of a documentary titled “Pachacutec: The Improbable School,” helmed by director Mariano Carranza and backed by the esteemed chef Gaston Acurio. This documentary delves into the extraordinary story of the Pachacutec Cookery School nestled in the outskirts of Lima—a beacon of hope situated in an impoverished district.
The school’s existence seems serendipitous, yet its impact is profound. Over a span of 15 years, this institution has transformed the lives of over 400 aspiring chefs, rescuing them from destitution and infusing their lives with newfound aspirations. Through the art of cooking, it has paved the way for a fresh generation of Peruvian culinary talent, empowering individuals to dream beyond their circumstances.
The documentary follows the journeys of three remarkable alumni who have risen to success in different corners of the globe. Jhosmery, now a pastry chef in a prestigious Peruvian restaurant in San Francisco, initially embarked on this path through work experience gained at the school. Gerson, in Luxembourg, has taken charge of a kitchen with avant-garde culinary aspirations. Meanwhile, Alan, based in Lima, has triumphed with his thriving ceviche business. Each of these individuals saw gastronomy as a gateway to progress and fulfillment.
As a native of Peru, being involved in this project held profound personal significance for me. Witnessing the impact of this school, celebrating its significance within our culture, and collaborating with individuals I deeply admire made this experience exceptionally meaningful.
Erick, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Hailing from the vibrant cultural landscape of Peru, my journey into the world of music began in my formative years. Growing up, I found myself immersed in various musical genres, traversing everything from punk to jazz. This early passion eventually led me to Berklee College of Music, where I was fortunate to receive a scholarship through Fulbright.
Upon graduating, a pivotal opportunity arose when I was offered a position to assist the acclaimed composer Daniel Licht, known for his work on the series “Dexter.” This marked my entry into the captivating industry of film scoring. Since then, I’ve been fortunate to work on amazing projects, having contributed to over 70 film projects, that aired on Netflix, Disney+, ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox, Bravo, Showtime, and Lifetime networks including Empire, Dexter, Girlfriends Guide to Divorce, CHIPs, S.W.A.T., The Get Down, Blood Drive, UnReal, Luke Cage, Dr. Dre’s Vital Signs.
Recent credits include music consultant for Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, original music for documentary Pachacútec: The Improbable School, which premiered at this year’s San Sebastian Film Festival at the Culinary Zinema, La Danza de los Mirlos, a documentary about the legendary Peruvian cumbia band ‘Los Mirlos’, Tribeca Film Festival Official Selection documentaries Year Zero, produced by Academy-award winner Kathryn Bigelow, Grindr’s first scripted series, Bridesman, SXSW award-winner I’m Fine (Thanks for Asking), and Stonewall Forever, an archival documentary for Google.
My focus primarily revolves around film music composition and music production for an array of mediums including film, television, documentaries, and video games. What sets my work apart is a fusion of my unique background—blending a deep-rooted understanding of Latino rhythms and evocative textures with a seamless integration of orchestral and electronic elements.
I take pride in infusing my compositions with an unmistakable cultural flair while seamlessly navigating the intricate demands of storytelling through music. Whether it’s crafting immersive soundscapes for a film’s narrative or developing captivating melodies for a video game’s ambiance, my goal is to evoke emotions and enhance the audience’s experience.
What I’d like potential clients, followers, and fans to know about my work is the dedication and passion I bring to every project. My expertise lies not only in creating music but in using it as a powerful tool to elevate storytelling, evoke powerful emotions, and transport audiences into the heart of the narrative.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
My creative journey is fueled by a profound mission—to carve a significant space for my Latinx heritage within the realm of music. I’m deeply committed to amplifying its rich diversity and cultural depth. A crucial aspect of my creative pursuit involves venturing into uncharted territories by skillfully intertwining Latinx musical styles into the contemporary musical landscape within visual storytelling.
My mission is to bridge cultures through music—to craft compositions that not only entertain but also serve as a testament to the diversity and richness of the Latino heritage while pushing boundaries to create a unique and compelling musical experience.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
For me, the most rewarding facet of being an artist or creative lies in the daily privilege of immersing myself in the world of creative music. It’s an extraordinary blessing—to breathe life into sounds, rhythms, and textures, to embark on a creative journey that feels boundless. Collaborating with fellow creatives who continually challenge and expand your artistic horizons adds another layer of fulfillment to this rewarding endeavor.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.erickdelaguila.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/e.delaguila/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/edelaguilamusic/