Brian Usifer
To celebrate the release of Swept Away‘s Cast Album, we’re excited to welcome Music Supervisor, Co-Music Arranger, and Orchestrator Brian Usifer On The Couch this week. Co-creator and one quarter of Joy Machine records, Broadway’s newest and most exciting recording label, Brian has been on the music teams for shows like The Heart of Rock and Roll, A Beautiful Noise, Frozen, The Book of Mormon, Kinky Boots, and many more.
In Brian’s words, “every note says something, and every note means an opportunity to deepen the story and character development.”
Read our full interview with Brian below.
What do you consider to be your best asset?
I like to think that I bring a strong and diverse musical background to every project that I work on, and am very comfortable shifting through different styles of music with authenticity. Actually, it’s probably my sense of humor.
What was your proudest moment?
Last week, my 9 year old son Henry told me he wanted to start a band…just not with me.
What is your favorite drink?
Manhattan on the rocks
What is your favorite food?
Pizza
What is your favorite condiment?
Ranch!
What is your current obsession?
I just did a reading with an incredible composer/songwriter named Ross Golan who has a podcast called “And the Writer Is…” and it’s incredible.
If you could give up one of your vices, what would it be?
I am a certified, card-carrying Over-Thinker, and while I like to think it helps me make good decisions, I’d also love to have the 30 minutes back that it took me to decide how to answer this question.
What is the one professional accomplishment you long for most?
This is hard for me to answer because I always want to be humble, but I am very lucky to work on other people’s music, and there is nothing better than a composer who feels like I’ve helped them accomplish their vision, on stage or on a record.
What is the one thing you waste too much money on?
Wine
What is the one activity you waste too much time doing?
Over thinking
What do you consider to be the single greatest threat to your health?
Politics these days
What’s the single best trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
My dad was a very hard worker and liked to be very thorough in his decision making. We’d spend a lot of time on the phone when I was in the early part of my career and I have him to thank for a lot of choices that I made, but I’ve also never quit a job or a project I agreed to do.
What’s the single worst trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
Shortness
What in the world most thrills you?
When I’m arranging, orchestrating, or producing music there is always that moment where you find the exact right thing, and not only is it the right thing but it also unlocks the next 10 ideas.
What current trend in popular culture most irritates you?
Looking to social media for answers to things that are probably best left for books..or experts.
What was the most embarrassing moment you’ve ever experienced on the job?
So many to choose from here! I made my Broadway “debut” subbing on Spelling Bee and I definitely played a very loud tuba note in the exact wrong place.
What is your favorite place in the world?
Tie between Napa and a recording studio.
What is the most important trait you seek in a romantic partner?
Sense of humor.
Do you prefer the company of dogs or cats?
Dogs.
What would have to happen to make today the best day of your life?
To wake up 6 feet tall.
What are your personal mottos?
“Always follow through with what you started.” “Being difficult is not a reason to not do something if it’s worth it.” “Don’t panic, breathe, think.”