Carlos Ortiz

Pronouns Used: He/him

Languages Spoken (other than English): Spanish (intermediate fluency)

Hometown: Washington, DC

Anticipated Graduation Year: 2028

Principal Instrument: Trumpet

Major(s): Contemporary Writing & Production, Game Scoring

Minor(s): N/A

Describe your favorite Berklee experience so far.

My favorite Berklee experience had to be traveling to London Bridge Studios in Seattle as an auditions assistant. I had no idea that some of my favorite grunge bands (Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, Pearl Jam) had recorded there!

When you think about your favorite class so far, what is one example of why you enjoyed it?

My favorite class was the Contemporary Balkan Ensemble. Despite being new to the genre, playing in the ensemble became one of my most cherished experiences at Berklee. Balkan music has lots of complex time signatures and modal scales; through performance I was able to absorb these stylistic features and replicate them in my own compositions.

What is your favorite part about studying and living in Boston?

Boston, despite covering a wide area, feels very approachable. When I need a break from campus, I like to take the T to North End and walk by the piers.

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone applying to Berklee College of Music/Boston Conservatory at Berklee?

Be authentic to yourself, unapologetically. You have strengths that nobody else does, but you must believe in them first.

Where is your favorite place on campus?

I often work on the second floor of 160 Mass Ave, outside the Caf. It's a good spot to windowgaze, especially during a winter snowfall.

Why did you choose Berklee?

When narrowing down my choices, Berklee was one of the few music schools that had a dedicated game scoring program. After attending and loving an Electronic Production and Design Summer camp, I was sold.

What are your plans for after graduation?

I'd love to work at Bethesda Game Studios, since it's near my home in DC. I'm also interested in doing foley for game audio.

What have you enjoyed most about the live shows you've been involved in at Berklee?

I really enjoy performing on campus, because you're surrounded by your friends and peers. For me, this alleviates some performance anxiety, because you always have people there to support you.

Where do you hope to perform this coming year?

My favorite place on campus to perform at is The Red Room. It's not too large and generally has a darker/moodier atmosphere, so performing there feels very private and immersive.

Your social media channel/web URL

Instagram: @c_arlos_ortiz