Coto Melia
Coto Melia
Composing, Arranging, Mixing, Producing
Coto Melia is a composer and mixer whose debut album 'Evocative' was officially released in 2021. The album is a collection of solo piano and orchestral pieces, all of which are deeply connected to Melia's inspirations, memories, and emotions.
"Making music for me is like writing a diary where my feelings, deep thoughts, and memories interact and come together to show the paths of my life."
Melia begins her musical process with a small but powerful main theme, adding chords by playing the keyboard or using DAW (Digital Audio Workstation). She then builds upon this foundation, creating a full-bodied composition that may include cello, violin, viola, flute, guitar, church organ, electronic sounds, choir, bass, and drums as needed to fully express her creative vision.
"When I create or listen to music, melodies and sounds often come to mind. While it can be tempting to add more layers or create alternative versions, I often pause to consider if they are truly necessary. Sometimes simplicity, reminiscent of sumi-ink painting, is suitable, while in other cases, layered harmonies akin to the style of impressionism best suit the theme."
All the pieces on her follow-up sophomore album, 'alivio', which was released in 2022, are dedicated to the ‘alivio’ acupuncture clinic. These pieces reflect her memories of the clinic owner and express her hope that patients may relax during their treatments.
Melia began playing the organ and piano at the age of four, and as a teenager, she learned the art of arranging and composing music. Her passion for music has persisted ever since. Although she received classical training, her musical influences range from pop and country to jazz, R&B, film music, ambient, minimalist, and even dance. Drawing inspiration from various musical genres since a young age, she has been creating unique and enriched harmonies.
She has also learned the art of mixing and mastering music, which enables her to fully realize her intention in expressing herself through the notes, sound qualities, and texture of her music. As a result, her emotional expression and groove have resonated with audiences, touching their hearts deeply.
Meditating on the deck, where she can gaze upon the vast expanse of hills and sky, allows her to connect with the natural world and her innermost self. Her diverse interests, which include traveling to different places, hiking trails, appreciating the beauty of animals and plants, exploring science, and spending time with loved ones, serve as a wellspring of inspiration for her music, enabling her to create compositions across a wide range of themes.