We were lucky to catch up with Muye Yu recently and have shared our conversation below.
Muye, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your creative career sooner or later?
I started learning piano at the age of three, and by the time I had enough control over my fingers—around four years old—I was already experimenting with simple melodies and harmonies using both hands. My more structured, life-oriented creative journey began at 18 when I entered college and majored in music production.
Looking back, I wouldn’t change the timing of when I started. I believe each person follows a unique path, and it’s impossible to fully predict how things might have turned out differently. I don’t think there’s a “right” time to begin a creative career, the important thing is to respond to the creative impulse when the inspiration strikes you.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My name is Muye Yu (于沐晔), and I am a composer specializing in music for film, visual media, as well as theater and concert performance. My journey began with a deep love for music at an early age, which led me to major in music production at Beijing Film Academy. I later earned my Master’s degree in Screen Scoring from the University of Southern California (USC) and am currently completing my PhD in Composition at UCLA.
My work spans a variety of formats, from scoring films, television, and video games to writing orchestral and chamber music. Some of my recent projects include the original score for feature film 陌生人（Strangers） by renowned Tibetan director Pema Tseden（万玛才旦) , the action feature Shaolin Avengers (2025), the orchestral piece The Feast of Life, and Grass, a duet performed by Grammy-winning soprano Hila Plitmann.
I’m passionate about exploration and innovation, and I’m always eager to try something new—both in the way I compose and in how I collaborate with directors and creative teams. Whether I’m composing for screen or stage, I strive to connect Eastern and Western musical languages, blending acoustic and electronic textures to craft a unique sonic language. I believe in the power of music to connect people across cultures, and I aim to contribute to that dialogue through the work I take on.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being a creative is having the freedom and space to express my thoughts, emotions, and inspirations through my work. It’s incredibly fulfilling when that work connects with others—when it’s heard, seen, or experienced by an audience. Knowing that something I created resonates with someone else makes the entire creative journey worthwhile.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
In my view, one of the best ways society can support artists and build a thriving creative ecosystem is by making cultural experiences and opportunities for connection easy and accessible to everyone. The city of Los Angeles offers a great example. There are concerts happening all the time—from major institutions like the LA Philharmonic, Hollywood Bowl to countless smaller venues scattered throughout the city. This creates a vibrant atmosphere where creativity is both celebrated and supported.
Additionally, educational and professional events—such as film music panels—allow creatives to engage directly with industry professionals and learn from their processes. Festivals and trade shows, like Sundance Film Festival and the NAMM Show, also play a key role by bringing artists, audiences, and industry players together in a dynamic and inspiring space. These kinds of events help cultivate community and provide support that creatives need to thrive.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Muye Yu
