Studio Soundtracks takes listeners behind the scenes of how music is crafted for film and television by hearing directly from composers, songwriters and music professionals in the Entertainment Industry. Listen to inspiring conversations about composition and hear works from Emmy, Grammy, and Oscar-winning film scores on the show.

COLIN STETSON

Colin Stetson is a renowned saxophonist and composer known for his innovative approach to the instrument and his ability to push the boundaries of contemporary music. Born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, he grew up in a rich musical environment, studying saxophone from an early age and developing his craft through both classical and jazz training. He later attended the University of Michigan, where he studied under Donald Sinta and Christopher Creviston.

Stetson’s music is defined by his use of extended techniques such as circular breathing, multiphonics, and percussive key sounds, transforming the saxophone into something closer to a full ensemble. His solo recordings, including his latest album The love it took to leave you, showcase his ability to build dense, emotionally charged soundscapes without the use of overdubs or loops.

Alongside his solo work, he has collaborated with artists like Bon Iver, Arcade Fire, and Laurie Anderson. He has also composed for film and television, with scores for Hereditary (2018), The Menu, Uzumaki, and the Netflix series Something Very Bad Is Going to Happen (2026).

With a fearless dedication to exploration, Colin Stetson continues to redefine what is possible in modern music, earning his place as a singular voice in the world of contemporary composition and performance.