Ros Gilman, a British-German composer, is bringing a fresh voice to film music with his evocative scores, from HBO’s original series Folklore to the award-winning animated short The Wedding Veil of the Proud Princess. A classically trained violinist, conductor, and music producer, Gilman’s work, streamed over 19 million times, ranging from orchestral grandeur to intimate piano melodies. His music, featured at film festivals like Locarno and honored at the Garden State Film Festival, resonates with audiences worldwide.
This article explores Gilman’s journey from a violinist sidelined by injury to an award-winning composer, his process for scoring films, and his recently released solo piano album ‘Emotions in 8 Chapters’. We’ll uncover how his classical training shapes his cinematic storytelling. Join us to discover why Gilman’s music is a must-hear in 2025.
From Violin to Film Scores
Gilman’s musical path began as a violinist, trained at the Gnessin School of Music and the University of Music in Vienna. A hand injury forced a pivot, ending his performing career but igniting his passion for composition. “I couldn’t play, but I could still compose and conduct,” he says. Inspired by John Williams’ iconic scores, he dove into film music, studying composition at the University of Music in Vienna and the Royal College of Music in London, to channel his creativity.
His musical family—both parents are musicians—provided a nurturing backdrop. Early experiments, such as writing small pieces as a child, laid the groundwork for his career. This blend of innate talent and rigorous training has made Gilman a versatile composer, equally at home with orchestral works and solo piano.
Crafting Emotional Film Scores
Scoring films like The Wedding Veil of the Proud Princess requires Gilman to align with a director’s vision. “My first task is understanding what the filmmaker wants, and how the music can help tell their story,” he explains. The FAMES Macedonian Symphonic Orchestra brought the music of The Wedding Veil to life – a process Ros calls “the climax of a film music production.” To add a personal touch, he recorded the solo-violin parts of the score himself.
Gilman’s process starts with piano demos to establish a film’s musical language, refined through collaboration with the film’s director. His scores enhance storytelling, conveying emotions like triumph or heartbreak when dialogue falls silent. This ability to evoke feeling, honed by influences like John Williams and John Powell, makes his music integral to the cinematic experience.
A Solo Piano Debut
Beyond films, Gilman’s standalone work, like his debut album Emotions in Eight Chapters, showcases his versatility. Released on April 11, 2025, the solo piano album offers listeners an emotional journey, available on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. “With standalone music, I’m free to write in any mood,” he says, contrasting the freedom of piano compositions with the collaborative nature of film scoring.
His website, rosgilman.com, is a treasure trove of his work, categorized by mood—drama, romance, horror, and more – and a place to explore emotions through sound. This accessibility, paired with his festival accolades, positions Gilman as a composer with global appeal.
Conclusion
Ros Gilman’s music transforms films and standalone works into emotional odysseys, blending classical roots with modern storytelling. His journey from violinist to award-winning composer inspires aspiring artists to embrace challenges and create. As his debut album drops in 2025, Gilman’s evocative scores invite us all to feel deeply and connect through music.
Stay up to date with Ros’s latest work on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
