The Los Angeles Film Conducting Intensive, what we do and why we do it.

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At LAFCI, we believe that some of the most important lessons in music cannot be learned from a textbook or in a classroom alone. They happen when a composer hears their music performed by professional musicians, when a conductor discovers how to communicate an idea more effectively, and when artists come together to transform a written score into a living musical experience.

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When David Newman and Angel Velez founded LAFCI in 2016, their goal was to create opportunities for composers to develop the skills, confidence, and practical experience necessary to work with professional musicians. They recognized that the transition from writing music to bringing it to life in a recording studio or concert hall requires an entirely different set of skills, many of which are difficult to develop without access to a professional ensemble. A decade later, that philosophy continues to guide our work. Through conducting and composition intensives, professional recording sessions, international collaborations, and mentorship from experienced industry professionals, we strive to create an environment where musicians can learn by doing, take creative risks, ask questions, and develop meaningful professional relationships.

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We believe that access to exceptional musicians, experienced mentors, and professional recording environments can be transformative. Our purpose is not simply to teach the technical aspects of music making, but to help artists grow in their confidence, musicianship, communication, and understanding of the collaborative process. Ultimately, we do what we do because we believe that great music deserves the opportunity to be heard, and that every musician deserves the opportunity to continue learning, creating, and growing.