'A voice-over is essentially music as well'

Sonic Branding

With his company Finetune Audio, David helps brands and filmmakers shape their stories through music, voice, and sound. “We specialise in sonic branding: creating an audio identity that makes brands recognisable. Our work combines music, sound design, and voice-overs. Occasionally, we also take on projects such as band recordings, but our main focus lies in film and media. In addition, we compose brand tunes, jingles, and sound logos.”

A programme full of possibilities

Looking back on his time at the conservatoire, David mainly remembers the versatility of the Composition and Music Production programme. “You are trained in instrumental composition, production, songwriting, and composing for media — a wide range of skills. I see it as collecting tools along the way. You carry them with you, and when a project requires a specific skill, you know where to find it.”

That broad foundation continues to shape his work today. As a child, David dreamed of becoming a concert pianist, but during secondary school his focus gradually shifted towards composition. “I still draw on my background as a pianist — from classical harmonies and structures to rich jazz chords. That knowledge is invaluable in electronic music as well. You can take elements from one genre and apply them in another.” For David, the magic lies in that interplay: combining styles, exploring boundaries, and connecting disciplines.

'I never thought I would do voice-overs’

A year before graduating, David had already started his own business. “I recommend starting while you’re still studying. Don’t wait for the ‘right moment’ — begin where you are now.”
During his studies, his work focused primarily on film music, until one particular project broadened his perspective. “I was very happy with the music I had written, but the voice-over supplied by the company didn’t match the atmosphere at all. That’s when I realised: this can be done better. A voice-over is music too — it has its own rhythm and intonation.”

By adding voice-overs to his services, David gained control over the entire production process. This integrated approach proved to be a turning point: it not only raised the artistic quality of his work, but also laid the foundation for a sustainable business with long-term client relationships. “That holistic way of working leads to satisfied clients — and to clients who come back.”

Inspiration and passion

“Music is, by nature, a creative profession. It’s driven by inspiration and passion. To sustain that creativity, you also need stability — including financial stability. We found that balance by expanding our services to include voice-overs.”
Overseeing the complete production process allows David to guarantee both quality and commitment. “At the start of a project, I often give clients a little extra. That surprises them — and satisfied clients are our best ambassadors. When people recognise your passion, they want to return.”

What ultimately drives him is his love for music. “I find it incredible to enhance a film with music. With music, a film can be great; without it, it’s only good. The positive feedback from clients who appreciate the energy and dedication I put into my work is the real reward.”

The yellow wall

When working with clients, David often refers to the metaphor of the yellow wall.
“Always ask why someone wants something. Imagine a client asks you to paint a wall yellow — first ask why. It might not fit the rest of the interior, and as a professional you may be able to suggest a better solution.” He continues: “In our field, clients sometimes ask for something without fully knowing what they mean. If you don’t ask follow-up questions, misunderstandings arise. They asked for a ‘yellow wall’, but meant a completely different shade. And there are so many shades of yellow.” Always ask what exactly they want and why, because the reason behind their request might be more interesting and lead to a better solution than the yellow wall itself."

His advice to students and emerging creatives is clear: discover your unique value — why you do what you do, and what gives your work meaning. Ask questions, stay curious, and don’t wait. Start now.