Assistant Professor of Studio Composition Devin Arne has been at the University for just two years, but students in the Wells School of Music (WSOM) are already benefiting from his teaching methods and coursework.

Arne teaches studio production, scoring for video games, composition for film and media, and music entrepreneurship. He also directs the Studio Music Ensemble, which presents two concerts each year. Students under his tutelage earn a bachelor of music in studio composition or a minor in music production. Both are fields that have seen immense growth in the past decade.

“I love introducing WCU students to studio production,” he notes. “It is a major that allows students to develop and express all parts of their musicality. It is very multifaceted because it marries performance, composition, and collaboration with media.”

I let the students create and find their way. But I ask purposeful questions and encourage them to find comparable examples and to think about other perspectives.

Originally from New York, Arne brings a wealth of professional experience to his role. He is a composer, producer, and conservatory-trained jazz guitarist. He has composed music for international ad campaigns, television programs, web-based media, and mobile applications. Working with top music houses in New York and Los Angeles, he has produced hundreds of compositions for brands that include Google, Mercedes-Benz, and Samsung.

This summer, Arne is an advisor to two WSOM students who are participating in WCU’s Summer Undergraduate Research Institute (SURI). One student is creating a virtual drum set product for recording software, and the other is creating a multimedia installation that was exhibited in the Knauer Gallery the week of June 24.

“I encouraged my students to apply for the program,” he says. “I try to impress on them the importance of building a portfolio. In a competitive field like music, it is important to distinguish yourself with the quality of your work. The SURI program allows students to fully immerse themselves in research and creative practice over the summer.”

Arne guides his students through each step of their projects.

“I let the students create and find their way. But I ask purposeful questions and encourage them to find comparable examples and to think about other perspectives.”

He adds, “I love the student enthusiasm at WCU. The students want to be here, and it is an incredibly supportive community.”