Driven by the simple yet powerful motto, make cool things, Mackinley Rolfe is a modern composer and multidisciplinary artist whose music and creative output transcends genre, format, and expectation. With roots in contemporary music composition and a deep knowledge of audio production, he approaches music-making as both craft and exploration, combining the sensibilities of a songwriter, the precision of an engineer, and the openness of a conceptual artist.
A student of the Bachelor of Music Industry program at Box Hill Institute, majoring in composition, Mackinley’s versatility has defined his artistic craft. He is equally at home composing for screen, producing for independent artists, and writing original concert works. His compositions have featured in over ten short films and media projects, including several award-nominated and award-winning scores, and he has produced a full EP for Melbourne-based artist ‘Follow The Robin’ set for release in early 2026. His catalogue spans works for solo violin, choral pieces, large ensemble works, and commissions, including a performance by the Victorian Youth Symphony Orchestra.
While experienced in multiple DAWs, Mackinley is highly proficient in the worlds of Logic Pro X and Pro Tools - tools he uses not just for composition but for the full scope of music creation, from sound design to final mix. His multifaceted skillset allows him to embody his personal brand: composer. creator. Mackinley doesn’t see himself confined to a single identity in music, but as someone constantly building, reshaping, and experimenting across many disciplines and forms of expression.
Currently, Mackinley is developing new projects that blend audiovisual elements, performance, and sound installation, expanding his practice into immersive and interdisciplinary territories. As he continues to explore the edges of form and meaning, one thing remains constant: a desire to make work that feels honest, emotionally resonant, and quietly powerful.
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Music Producer, Recording Studio Engineer, Musician, Mixing and Mastering Engineer for upcoming Music EP ‘Annabelle’s House’ by Melbourne/Naarm artist ‘Follow the Robin’.
Music composition for an informative documentary on St John’s Ambulance Victoria, directed by Isaac Johns.
Additional music production and performance; additional Audio Engineering for Shelby Rose’s original score for the short film ‘The Devil You Know’ directed by Francesca Codd.
Summary
“THE DEVIL YOU KNOW Tells the story of Maggie, a young woman who after leaving a restrictive religious community in the country, seeks liberation in metropolitan Melbourne, but finds the urban utopia isn’t what she hoped.”
Original score for comedy / drama film ‘Vinegar Mother’ directed by Francesca Codd
Summary
“In the wake of her first heartbreak, sad-girl Liv is pushed by her long-suffering best friend into breaking into a Melbourne share house to reclaim her prized Kombucha SCOBY, in a bid to sever the final ties with her ex.”
Emotional soundtrack composed for Aarya Hatkhambar’s ‘The Thong’
SCREENED AND PREMIERED AT ST. KILDA FILM FESTIVAL 2025
Co-composed with Neel Upasani
Summary
“The film follows Indian-Australian teen, Vedhika who is on the run to hide a g-string she accidentally buys before her conservative family finds out. With complex themes of female sexuality and de-colonisation, this short film was nominated Best Director, Best Screenplay and Best Production Design at Deakin’s Graduate Film Festival, Visionnaire.”
Dramatic, atmospheric soundtrack for True Crime / Horror TV Pilot focusing Paranormal Activity and Dark History.
BEST ORIGINAL SCORE, CINAESTHESIA Film Festival 2024 - WINNER
Electronic-based film composition for Thriller / Horror / Coming of Age short film.
Additional Music featuring Psychadelic Rock and 70s Rock
Advertising featuring original, jazz-inspired ambient noir composition.
Music composition and songwriting for short film “Standing Ovation” directed by Amy Burgess/
Film score mostly inspired by classical orchestral arrangement, heavily featuring dramatic orchestration and arrangement. Piano performance is also featured throughout
Film Summary
“The spotlight shines on Charlie Harris, a promising ballet dancer struggling with inner turmoil and external pressures. As he prepares for his solo, he grapples with the urgency from stage manager Amanda, and ridicule from fellow dancer Georgia. Charlie’s estranged father Bruce sits as an audience member for the first time. Although a shaky beginning, Charlie completes his routine, finding strength and stability through Bruce’s newfound support. Amidst the chaos, Charlie extends a hand of empathy to Georgia, forging an unlikely bond through common ground. Together, Charlie, Georgia and Bruce embark on a journey of healing, self-discovery, and the profound impact of love and acceptance.”
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