Kurt Rosenberg, an incredible talent and acclaimed musician, formed his love for music at a very young age. Through his upbringing, he was exposed to a variety of genres: pop, classical, showtunes. Each time he heard a new song, Rosenberg was inspired to compose a piece that exuded a similar feel.
Remembering the beginning of his musical endeavors, in which he gained inspiration from a variety of artists and their songs, Rosenberg shares: “I started to compose my own Pop songs in my mid-teens, heavily influenced by The Beatles, Cat Stevens, and Elton John.”
One song, however, had a particularly significant impact on him. “When I heard ‘Harry’s Game’ by Clannad, my love affair with Celtic Music began in earnest,” recalls Rosenberg. “I have been composing Scottish/Irish Music for over 25 years.”
Celtic music is often overlooked as a genre. Many musicians concentrate their efforts on composing songs that fit into the category of more popular genres, like rock, alternative, or pop. Rosenberg, however, remains unique in his musical focus, which is what distinguishes him as an artist.
This focus is particularly interesting, considering that Rosenberg has lived in Oregon nearly his entire life. Though, the charm of Scotland and the intense impact that the country had on his life have contributed to Rosenberg’s music today.
His trip to the Scottish Highlands and Islands helped inspire his piece Highland Home. Rosenberg recalls taking a tour of the Brodrick Castle on the Scottish Isle of Arran when his brother “told one of the guides that [he] played piano.” Next thing he knew, he was playing piano for the entire castle. This moment proved to be monumental for him.
“Upon return home, and inspired by that visit, I sat down and composed the Highland Home song melody.” Years later, he created the lyrics to go along with this melody. It stands today as a perfect encapsulation of the impact that Scottish culture has had on Rosenberg’s musical career.
This ode to Scotland stands as the centerpiece of the Highland Home film, described as a short piece involving a young woman transported to “a place of enchanting wonders.”
Rosenberg reminisces on the success of Highland Home, noting its selection to appear at several prestigious festivals globally. Additionally, the film was recognized by several organizations for awards including: the Platinum Remi Award from World-Fest, a Director’s Choice Award at Santa Barbara’s International Fine Arts Film Festival, and the Best Music Video Award at Bath’s Jane Austen International Film Festival. Rosenberg was particularly happy to receive the Winner for Best Lyrics Award at the International Music Video Awards.
Rosenberg continues to gain inspiration from the songs and magnificent places of Scotland to compose his own music. He retains ambitious plans for the future of his career in music, which can undoubtedly be achieved with the intense drive and talent that he has consistently displayed.
Follow @KRosenbergMusic on Twitter to explore his projects further.
