I'm Dylan Bales, a Brooklyn-based pianist and film composer currently pursuing a Master of Music at The New School. My work focuses on creating emotionally resonant scores that support narrative, character, and atmosphere across film and visual media. Drawing from a background in composition, performance, and music production, I approach scoring as a collaborative process. I work closely with directors and creators to shape musical ideas that serve the story, whether through intimate piano textures, electronic sound design, or hybrid orchestral approaches. Alongside composing, I have extensive experience editing, organizing, and assembling music projects from concept to final delivery. I have scored independent student films and am currently collaborating on multiple film projects, developing original music tailored to each project's unique visual and emotional language. My graduate studies continue to inform my creative practice, deepening my interest in contemporary composition, storytelling, and the relationship between sound and image!

Dylan Bales

I'm Dylan Bales, a Brooklyn-based pianist and film composer currently pursuing a Master of Music at The New School. My work focuses on creating emotionally resonant scores that support narrative, character, and atmosphere across film and visual media. Drawing from a background in composition, performance, and music production, I approach scoring as a collaborative process. I work closely with directors and creators to shape musical ideas that serve the story, whether through intimate piano textures, electronic sound design, or hybrid orchestral approaches. Alongside composing, I have extensive experience editing, organizing, and assembling music projects from concept to final delivery. I have scored independent student films and am currently collaborating on multiple film projects, developing original music tailored to each project's unique visual and emotional language. My graduate studies continue to inform my creative practice, deepening my interest in contemporary composition, storytelling, and the relationship between sound and image!

Available to hire

I’m Dylan Bales, a Brooklyn-based pianist and film composer currently pursuing a Master of Music at The New School. My work focuses on creating emotionally resonant scores that support narrative, character, and atmosphere across film and visual media.

Drawing from a background in composition, performance, and music production, I approach scoring as a collaborative process. I work closely with directors and creators to shape musical ideas that serve the story, whether through intimate piano textures, electronic sound design, or hybrid orchestral approaches. Alongside composing, I have extensive experience editing, organizing, and assembling music projects from concept to final delivery.

I have scored independent student films and am currently collaborating on multiple film projects, developing original music tailored to each project’s unique visual and emotional language. My graduate studies continue to inform my creative practice, deepening my interest in contemporary composition, storytelling, and the relationship between sound and image!

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Private Piano & Music Instructor at Self-employed
January 1, 2025 - Present
Teach weekly piano lessons to students ages 8–adult, from beginner to intermediate levels. Design individualized lesson plans, build foundational skills in rhythm, harmony, technique, and musical form, and foster a supportive, low-pressure environment that encourages curiosity, enjoyment, and long-term engagement with music.
Audio Production Tutor at The New School — School of Media Studies
January 1, 2026 - Present
Provide one-on-one tutoring in audio production and course-related technical concepts, help students troubleshoot recording and editing workflows, and offer constructive feedback to encourage independent problem-solving.
Welcome Center Assistant / Student Ambassador at The New School
January 1, 2025 - Present
Lead campus tours for prospective students and families, provide clear overviews of academic programs, facilities, and student life, and serve as a professional, empathetic point of contact for current and prospective students.
Facilities Coordinator at Veritas Capital
January 1, 2022 - January 1, 2025
Coordinate daily office operations in a fast-paced environment, serve as primary point of contact for employees, guests, and external partners, and assist with onboarding, space planning, and office events.
Central Team Member at McNally Jackson Books
January 1, 2018 - January 1, 2022
Support daily operations across multiple store locations, provide reliable customer service, and assist with inventory coordination, logistics, and events in a fast-paced retail setting.
Production Assistant/Docent at Louis Armstrong House Museum
January 1, 2016 - January 1, 2019
Lead guided tours presenting musical, historical, and cultural material to diverse audiences, and support educational workshops, performances, and public programs through logistics and technical assistance.
Retail Associate at The Frick Collection
January 1, 2025 - January 1, 2026
Provide courteous, knowledgeable assistance to visitors in a high-volume cultural setting and support daily operations of the museum gift shop.

Education

Bachelor of Arts at State University of New York at Purchase
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2015
Master of Music at The New School
January 1, 2024 - June 23, 2026

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education, Retail, Professional Services, Other