Indiana Wesleyan University Music Composition alum Jonah Atkinson ’20 was selected to provide the music for one of Xfinity’s newest commercials featuring the 2022 Winter Olympic Games.
Atkinson connected with a music production house in New York, and after hearing his work, they invited him to join the Olympic commercial project. After listening to the provided reference track that was a mix of orchestral and electronic music, Atkinson began composing. The final track was approved by both the agency and Xfinity, and incorporated into the commercial.
“I saw the key moments I wanted to hit, and wrote the music to either cut out, or accentuate those moments,” said Atkinson. “Our job is all about making people feel something they are already seeing, and creating a dance between music and video.”
As a full-time freelance music producer and composer, Atkinson creates music for brands and individuals who have a need for music for films, commercials, podcasts, vlogs and more. He also assists in producing, recording and scoring for Berning Studios in Marion, Indiana—a music production studio founded by fellow IWU music alum, AJ Berning ‘15.
Atkinson credits his time at IWU for preparing him for success in the music industry.
“IWU's music professors aided me in being able to convey my musical ideas in ways others would understand,” said Atkinson. “I came into college not knowing any music theory or how to read sheet music. My professors gave me the tools to understand it, and I ran with those new tools to create my own sound and my own path.”
The Division of Music—which offers seven major programs of study—seeks to encourage students in their musical talents as well as their personal commitments to Christ as they aim to glorify God through a successful music career.
“Seeing something like this happen for Jonah is such a thrill!” said Dr. Todd Syswerda, professor of theory, composition and songwriting. “It is a testament to his hard work both as an IWU student and continuing after his time here. I hope this encourages my composers and songwriters to keep sharpening their skills…you never know what could happen.”
To watch the Xfinity commercial featuring Atkinson’s music, visit https://vimeo.com/666037335.
For more information on IWU’s Division of Music, visit www.indwes.edu/music.
