Arellano discovers passion for composing, audio engineering at San Jac
Before embarking on his academic journey at San Jac, Arellano was still determining his career path. Having been in the high school band, he was already interested in the arts and could read music and play the clarinet.
"I bought music notation software just to play around with it," said Arellano. "I discovered that, wow, I can create my own songs with this. It sparked something in me. I started to study music theory independently and wanted to know more about how it worked."
Arellano's dedication to music theory grew as he enrolled in San Jac’s music program, where he immersed himself in composing.
While at San Jac, Arellano honed his skills on multiple instruments. Not only did he take up alto saxophone and piano, which became a serious pursuit, but he also explored cello pan with the steel band. His involvement in the steel band concerts, jazz ensemble, and Orpheus concerts, working alongside other composers, provided him with invaluable experiences.
"Performing with the steel band with world-renowned composers was an amazing opportunity," he said. "It's something I will never forget."
In 2021, Arellano graduated with his associate degree in music. COVID-19 thwarted his initial plans to transfer to a university, so he returned to San Jac to pursue a degree in audio engineering.
"I had such a great experience with audio engineering," said Arellano. "Not only are the professors knowledgeable, but being hands-on in the studio is invaluable."
Toward the end of his audio engineering studies, Arellano began an internship at New Hope Church, where he managed live sound for services and special events, gaining real-world experience.
Arellano graduated with his associate degree in audio engineering in spring 2024, adding a second associate degree to his belt.
Creatively, Arellano draws inspiration from his emotions and surroundings, nurturing small ideas into fully developed musical pieces.
I like to think about the creative process like painting. I focus on the foundational elements and intricate details that form a complete composition — the circles and squares that make up the detail. That is what music is to me. The harmonies, arrangement, and orchestration build the image in your mind.
His portfolio includes various works, from flute solos to brass and string quartets and chamber music.
Beyond his studies, Arellano teaches piano, composition, and songwriting at Attuned Music School, inspiring students of all ages.
"My teaching philosophy emphasizes the cyclical nature of creativity and the importance of audiation — the ability to hear music in your mind," he said. "I encourage students to harness this skill to enhance their musical expression."
Arellano plans to pursue a degree in sound design, a field he discovered through a film analysis in his audio engineering program. This revelation, coupled with his girlfriend's experience at the Savannah College of Art and Design, led him to apply to SCAD's sound design program.
"One day, I'd like to be a video game composer combining expertise in music, audio engineering, and sound design to create immersive auditory experiences," he said.
He draws inspiration from sound design in game series like God of War and The Legend of Zelda, especially Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, aiming to contribute to this dynamic industry.
Looking ahead, Arellano plans to expand his portfolio and build a diverse group of clients.
"Ultimately, my dream is to compose for a major game company like Nintendo," Arellano said. "That would be a scary but fun job."
