(Meridian Magazine interview continued)

One might think this a risky and unstable business, but Williams doesn't. Some friends and family members use to ask what he planned to fall back on when life as a professional musician didn't work out. That thought never entered Williams mind. He is an extremely focused and disciplined man, and it was evident from those early days in high school that he would not be deterred from his course. When he is working on a project, it can take 14-hour days for four weeks, but he is home for dinner and still drives the kids to school every day. Between projects Williams has more time than the normal dad to spend with his wife and three young sons. Williams is quick to add that all careers require sacrifices for a family. "It can be a bit crazy knowing that when a job is over you're unemployed again," says Williams. "I always have to worry about the next job, but there is never time to do that during a job because you are so wrapped up in the work." But fortunately, for a talented musician, there is enough good work available to keep him busy.

Alan has composed scores for some of the most successful IMAX films including the Academy Award nominated, Amazon, as well as Sony Pictures' Mark Twain's America, Island of the Sharks, and Kilimanjaro: To the Roof of Africa. He has scored everything from family films to romantic comedies and animated features to thrillers. The critics have referred to Williams as one of the important 'up and coming' musical composers in Hollywood.

Williams has confidence in his abilities and is passionate about his work. "For me, the most important thing is that I have to feel good about what I put out there. You can't please everyone all of the time, and if I feel good about my product, it doesn't matter what others say," says Williams. "To me, good music is music that stirs one's soul, and I mean exactly that, stirs one's emotions. Those can be emotions of joy, tragedy or fear but the music literally moves one to emotion."

Now, somehow the office surroundings seem more fitting. For Alan Williams, the creativity does not come from a room full of doo dads and nick knacks, nor is it exhibited in funky furniture and a wild color scheme. The powerful themes and touching melodies come deep from within a man who has devoted much time, thought and energy to bringing meaningful music to the individual. His is an art form that requires incredible mind, spirit and skill, and is not an arbitrary mystical event that descends upon the lucky few. Alan Williams is a man of passion and determination, and there is nothing 'messy' about that.

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