Tillman Duft, a native of Cologne, has demonstrated a lifelong engagement with the realm of music, starting from his formative years. Initially exploring the domain of percussion, he eventually gravitated towards the guitar, honing his skills to an exceptional level of proficiency. His unwavering dedication and talent propelled him to secure victories in various notable competitions, such as the prestigious „Jugend Musiziert“ in 2011 and 2017. To further refine his craft, Tillman sought guidance from esteemed mentors, commencing with Ja-min-Oh in Aachen, later continuing his tutelage under the esteemed Sotiris Malasiotis in Cologne and Arina Bönhoff in Freiburg.
Raised amidst the vibrant musical landscape of Cologne, Tillman Duft’s upbringing was enriched by the city’s renowned transmusical festivals. Attending performances by notable artists such as Tommy Emmanuel, Paco De Lucia, Simon Rattle, and The Berlin Philharmonics, as well as local talents and electronic sensation Zedd, his musical education was deeply influenced by these diverse and exceptional experiences.
Following his school exams, with a focus on music, Tillman embarked on a journey of further education, enrolling in musicology studies at Freiburg. While the rigorous lessons of counterpoint and music theory formed a foundation, his insatiable musical aspirations led him to explore new frontiers. Turning his attention to the intersection of psychology and music, Tillman sought a deeper understanding of the emotional and psychological impact of musical compositions.
From an early age, Tillman’s musical endeavors were evident, as he began composing at the tender age of nine and formed his own rock band alongside his close friend Felix Schneider and other talented peers. Initial recordings and orchestral works were crafted on his trusty iPad 4 until his dream of owning a MacBook with Logic installed became a reality. Since then, his artistic output has expanded to encompass compositions ranging from orchestral and piano pieces to popular and rock music, as well as scores for films. Passionate about both the serene melodies of synthesizers and violins and the electrifying energy of screaming guitars and powerful brass sections, Tillman finds inspiration in a broad sonic spectrum.
Driven by a profound desire to create a transformative musical experience, Tillman’s goal as a composer is not solely to produce music but to craft an immersive space where listeners can discover their own personal resonance. With this vision in mind, he pursued a master’s degree, specializing in systematic musicology with a minor in psychoacoustics. This academic pursuit further equipped him with a nuanced understanding of the intricate relationship between music and perception.
In September 2022, Tillman showcased his exceptional production and mastering skills through his work on „Soul Atlas,“ an international multimedia project based in Lisbon. Through his extensive network of contacts, ranging from composers and musicians to studios, directors, and artists, Tillman Duft stands ready to offer his expertise and contribute to various creative endeavors. Discover how his talents can elevate your creative vision to new heights.
