ABOUT

Joshua McGhee (b. 1986) grew up in Fairfield, California, where he began teaching himself piano at an early age. Also self-taught in composition from the age of 14, he wrote original works for piano, band, and orchestra, developing a natural instinct for melody and musical storytelling. A multi-instrumentalist, McGhee cultivated a broad musical foundation that led him to earn a bachelor’s degree in musical composition, studying under Dr. Pablo Furman and Raphael Hernandez, and receiving mentorship from Dr. Wesley Broadnax.

Shortly after graduating, he received his first commission from the African American Composer Initiative and has since composed numerous works for the organization. In addition to his compositional work, McGhee has worked with at-risk youth, directed middle school bands and choirs, taught privately, and contributed to a wide variety of musical projects.

Now based in Los Angeles, he has composed music for numerous short films and is currently at work on his first feature-length film. His music is cinematic and lyrical, characterized by beautiful, emotionally resonant melodies that move the soul. Blending classical structure with sweeping cinematic scope, his work reflects a deep commitment to storytelling through sound.