By day, Scott Lewis works as the IT director for Menomonee Falls-based Cousins Submarines Inc. But in his spare time, he orchestrates, arranges and writes music in his Waukesha home studio.
“It’s a good release, a good way to relax, and a good way to get your thoughts out there,” Lewis said. “It’s no different than an artist drawing a picture.”
Lewis played band in high school, but stopped playing when he served in the military. He resumed when he returned, and for the last four years has actively been writing music again.
Besides writing, he also plays a variety of instruments, including the clarinet, oboe, keyboard, strings and bass.
“You have to get an understanding of what the actual musician would go through, so you’re not writing something too outrageous for them,” Lewis said.
In addition to holding a bachelor’s degree in information technology, he recently earned a master’s certificate in orchestration for film and television from the Berklee College of Music. He is also considering earning a master’s degree in the program.
While he said the field is extremely competitive, he often finds work making background music for television shows and commercials. His music can be heard in two or three commercials and in about 20 or 30 shows.
Lewis said he is influenced by composers John Williams (Star Wars, Jurassic Park) and Howard Shore (The Lord of the Rings).
“Those are the kind of guys I aspire to be like,” he said.
