Meet Neusha Taherian

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Neusha Taherian. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Neusha below.

Neusha , first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

I don’t think anyone really overcomes imposter syndrome. I think what helps ground me from when I feel the imposter syndrome rising is remembering that some of the biggest names in my field also experience it. Even some of my colleagues that I look up to, that I am relatively lose to, have bouts of imposter syndrome. So, in a way, knowing that you’re not alone and that all artists really go through it, no matter how successful or how far they’ve come, is really comforting. And then, whatever I need to do, I just do it. And if I fail, then I’ll try again next time. And if I succeed, it’s almost like a reassurance and I can pat myself on the back for a second. It’s almost like you need to put yourself out of your body and see yourself as a younger version of you, to then encourage yourself and tell yourself exactly what you would say to a mentee.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

I grew up in Montreal, a city known for its vibrant arts scene, which greatly influenced my early years. Initially, I was deeply involved in theatre, working as a writer, actor, and director. This passion led me to Concordia University, where I began my undergraduate studies. However, about halfway through my time there, I found myself increasingly captivated by the power of music in storytelling. That’s when I decided to fully focus on music composition, eventually graduating with a BFA in it. To further my studies, I pursued an MFA in Music Composition at Columbia College Chicago. My time there was incredibly enriching, both academically and creatively.

Since graduating a year ago, I have been working in Hollywood as a music editor and additional composer, even amidst industry strikes. In my current role, I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to some exciting projects. I worked on Apple TV’s “The Dynasty: The New England Patriots,” Netflix’s “American Symphony,” and IMAX’s “Cities of the Future.” These experiences have been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to enhance narratives through music and collaborate with talented professionals. One of my proud achievement is composing the original score for the short film “Bush” by Emma Mazurek, which is currently making its rounds in the festival world. It’s gratifying to see how the music I created resonates with audiences and adds depth to the storytelling. I’m also working on several projects for Netflix and Apple TV, though I can’t share details about them just yet. Rest assured, they are keeping me busy and creatively fulfilled.

Outside of my professional work, I have a fun, musical outlet. Every Sunday, I play the bodhrán with an Irish band at a local pub. It’s a wonderful way to unwind and reconnect with the joy of making music purely for the love of it. From my beginnings in Montreal’s theatre scene to my current work in Hollywood, my journey has been driven by a passion for storytelling through music.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Honestly, just being open to any opportunity that presents itself to you. I think having a plan is always good, but I have learned throughout the years to have multiple scenarios play out and to not be afraid to just change course at any time. And when an opportunity shows up, even if you think you are not competent enough or if you are afraid of it, just go for it. Being open minded is so important in life, in all aspects of it.

The second quality, which ties in with the first, is to have an “f- it” attitude about things. Of course, as long as you are safe and in control; there are moments in life where you ask yourself “what if….”. I like to turn those “what ifs” into “what do I have to lose?” (this is where some serious risk assessment comes in). But if the risk is not harmful, then having that kind of attitude can really get you far. We always tend to regret opportunities in life that we miss out, and those opportunities can be very different depending on the type of person you are and what you value.

Another advice is that kindness goes a long way. Of course, there will always be people who will take advantage of it, but you learn to weed those people out. And in the end, it always comes around. If you have an opportunity to volunteer for an event in your field, why not do it? If you can mentor someone less experienced, that person might help you in the future. If you are kind to your colleagues, they are more likely to want to recommend you and work with you.

What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?

Immigrate to Canada. Though they did not know me then, I know how difficult it would have been for me if I grew up in Iran as a female composer. And though there are challenges I face here in North America for those same reasons, I am aware of the privilege that my parents have bestowed upon me by giving me the chance to grow up in Canada. They have also been my number one supporters since day one. It wasn’t always the most obvious choice, but they decided to trust me, and they taught me so many survival skills along the way. I wouldn’t be here and I wouldn’t be who I am if it weren’t for them. It’s crazy to think that it started with my sister, myself and my parents living in the same bedroom in a rental. I am proud of them, and I continue to try and become a better composer and music editor for them. I want what many immigrant kids want; for my parents who risked everything to live happy and comfortable lives.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://neushataherian.com
• Instagram: @neushmaister
• Soundcloud: Neusha Taherian
• Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm15546039