A classically trained musician with diverse interests, Derek Zhao blurs the lines among numerous genres in his compositions. Influenced by everything from the steroid-enhanced scores of Hans Zimmer to Thomas Newman’s quirky minimalistic soundscapes to Jerry Goldsmith’s sweeping symphonic masterpieces, he easily combines orchestral and electronic elements, effortlessly weaving in and out of classical, techno, pop, new age, ethnic, and various other styles. He has provided music for over 40 short films as well as television shows, commercials, and promotional videos. His music has been used by Hewlett-Packard, American Apparel, Digitells, and Trojan Vision TV8, while his classical compositions have been premiered at downtown Houston’s Hobby Center, performed by members of the Houston Grand Opera and Houston Symphony, and choreographed to by the Houston Ballet II. In addition to composing, Derek worked as an assistant to Randy Newman on The Princess and the Frog and is currently assisiting on Toy Story 3. His familiarity with music from the three lenses of composer, engineer, and producer puts him in a unique position to explore exciting possibilities. And armed with an extraordinary work ethic and creative impulse, Derek is ready to do just that.