We were lucky to catch up with Anya Lagman recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Anya thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The most meaningful project in my career has been “Pagsibol,” the first musical cultural show held at the Goldenberg Mansion last July 22, 2023. It was a landmark event, being the first of its kind at the Goldenberg Mansion, supported by the Philippines’ Department of Tourism’s Malacañang Heritage Tours. In English, “Pagsibol” translates to ‘blossom’, signifying the growth in my artistic journey and the promising future of Filipino arts.

This project was made even more significant by collaborating with The Philippine Madrigal Singers and the Manila Philharmonic Orchestra, two highly esteemed Filipino ensembles. While my classical compositions were previously premiered in the United States, they took on new life when performed in the Philippines. My compositions also address themes like: the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs); culture and identity; and the Filipino diaspora. Specifically, my choral pieces entitled “I Am Mother” and “Balikbayan” received their Philippine premieres by Filipino artists who deeply understood their essences, leaving a powerful impact on the audience.

Additionally, I had creative control over the program, allowing me to tell a comprehensive story that celebrated Filipino culture and the arts. This allowed me to pay tribute to Original Pilipino Music (OPM) by creating special string quartet and choral arrangements of beloved Filipino songs, spanning generations.

I owe the success of this project to my family’s unwavering support, especially my mother and father Charmaine and Mike Lagman, and the invaluable assistance of SAGA Philippines. In essence, “Pagsibol” was a celebration of Filipino culture, an artistic milestone, and a reminder of the power of collaboration.

Additionally, I am happy to announce that the performances from Pagsibol are available for streaming on December 8th. “Pagsibol (Live at the Goldenberg Mansion)” also features my covers of Original Pilipino Music (OPM), which I arranged for string quartet and choir. You can pre-save the album on Spotify through this link. I am so excited to share these performances with the world!

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am a Filipina composer based in Los Angeles, originally from Manila, Philippines. I recently made my scoring debut on Max Original’s animated series “Scavengers Reign” and have had the privilege of working with renowned ensembles such as The Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, The Manila Philharmonic Orchestra, MUSE Cincinnati Women’s Choir, and more. My concert works have been performed across the United States, Europe, and Asia.

My love for music and composition began at an early age, growing up in a family of musicians and learning the piano at four years old. However, at age fifteen, I fell in love with composition after writing my first film score, inspired by Hans Zimmer’s work for Christopher Nolan’s “Inception.” In May, I graduated with Summa Cum Laude honors in Composition from the University of Southern California’s Thornton School of Music. Here, I studied under renowned composers Andrew Norman, Ted Hearne, Donald Crockett, Nina Young, and Veronika Krausas. I am currently based in Los Angeles, working on projects in Europe, the United States, and the Philippines.

I offer a range of creative services, including scoring for multimedia projects, composing concert music, creating arrangements and orchestrations, score engraving, and music producer projects. I am passionate about vocalizing the visions of my clients and working closely with them to create a unique and tailored sound palette for their projects. What sets me apart is my deep commitment to sharing and representing Filipino culture in my work, and my proactive, self-driven approach as a producer. I’ve taken the initiative to create my own opportunities, such as founding the first student-led live film concert at USC and spearheading the first Filipino-themed recital at the Joyce J. Cammilleri Hall.

One of my proudest accomplishments is my journey as a composer: taking risks, creating opportunities, and paving my own path. I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that collaboration is at the heart of my creative process. I value transparency, open communication, and the exchange of ideas, always seeking inspiration from others. My works, whether in the classical or contemporary realm, draw inspiration from personal experiences and a deep connection to the human stories we all carry. I am constantly curious about the world, eager to learn, and committed to bringing these stories to life through music.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative, in my perspective, lies in the profound moments of connection and vulnerability. While the journey is demanding and consuming, I feel alive when I witness my music coming to life through musicians and see my ideas materialize into sound. Each piece carries a unique story, and the unpredictability of the outcome is what makes this journey fulfilling. These moments of creation, growth, and change feed my soul and fuel my passion to share more of my music. The constant learning journey, exploring the world, embracing different cultures, and collaborating with others, adds layers of inspiration to my creative expression. Ultimately, it’s the shared human experience, the emotional resonance, and the connection with the audience that make the challenges of being an artist worthwhile and bring a profound sense of aliveness to my creative endeavors.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My creative journey is driven by a dual mission of personal growth and connecting with others through genuine, emotive music. As my voice evolves with life’s twists and turns, my primary goal is to maintain authenticity, ensuring that my compositions reflect my true feelings and experiences. Music, for me, is a powerful means of self-discovery and understanding, and I aspire to offer that same opportunity to listeners.

Through my works, I aim to evoke emotions that resonate with the human experience, fostering a connection between my audience and the intricate soundscapes I create. My passion for learning and staying connected with the world propels me forward. I believe that music is intrinsic to life, providing a profound avenue for emotional expression and connection.

Whether in screen scoring, classical compositions, or collaborative projects, I invite listeners into my world, allowing them to see and feel life as I do. The fulfillment I find in discussing the audience’s experiences highlights the importance of my role as a composer in shaping emotional narratives.

In essence, my creative mission extends beyond personal expression; it’s a commitment to crafting works that mirror my journey through life, while simultaneously serving as a constant source of motivation to learn, be inspired, and share the beauty and wonder of the world with others. Ultimately, my aim is to use music as a profound instrument for communication, sharing, and experiencing life’s richness collectively.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.anyalagman.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyalagmanmusic/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anya-lagman-9295b1237/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@anyalagman/featured
• Other: https://pro.imdb.com/name/nm15458061?s=80c5db0e-a9e4-b961-4f27-7c7cd99a0c81&site_preference=normal

Image Credits
Image Credits: Sherard Yu