After a rough day, local musician Dylan Dunlap sits down at his piano bench and visualizes complex harmonies.   As he works, an image of success lingers in his mind.

“My big goal is to watch a movie and see my name in the credits [for my music],” said Dunlap.  “I always think of that goal when I am having a bad day or feeling negative.”

Dunlap originally developed his interest in music at the age of five when he taught himself to play on his father’s keyboard.  Twelve years later, he has blossomed into an accomplished pianist and fine composer.

“I started playing the piano because I had trouble properly expressing how I feel through words,” said Dunlap.  “Because of music, I have truly embraced myself.”

Dunlap draws inspiration from his father and older sister as well as from motion picture composers Thomas Newman, Danny Elfman and James Newton Howard and popular artists Mumford and Sons and Coldplay.  Dunlap’s diverse influences make him a versatile artist.

“I do my best to keep an open mind as a musician and try every type of music,” said Dunlap.  “I love when composers can create music that gives the viewers chills.”