Polina Luna

In Western Folklore, a Black Dog is sometimes portrayed as a benevolent guardian, guiding travelers at night onto the right path or protecting them from danger. 

This song is a dialogue between humankind and this supernatural figure. Through the eyes of the Black Dog we are shown our egocentric nature as our greatest weakness. A permeating individualistic culture that disregards lessons from the past is contrasted to the compassionate nature of the Black Dog. Ultimately, this song is an invitation to reflect on the individual changes we can implement on our lives, towards a better future. 

Polina Luna: composition (music & lyrics), arrangement, vocal performance, recording, production.

Luis Villalobos: baritone guitar & violin performances, production.

These two commercials have contrasting characters and target audiences. "Linked In" is aimed at professionals, while keeping a playful touch. To reflect this, I chose a minimalistic, mostly percussive, sonic palette. "Colombina" advertises colorful candy to a younger audience. The visuals are modern and psychedelic which required an electronically-driven cue.

*This is a demo project with no commercial intent. Video material remains property of the respective brands.

Polina Luna: composition, arrangement, and production. 

This piece was inspired by a red finch that kept visiting my window throughout the spring of 2022. I had never seen such a bird before, so I took great interest in it. I noticed an interesting pattern in its' call, which I decided to turn into the motif of this composition. The Red Finch is portrayed by the wind section, primarily the flute, while the forest is represented by the rest of the ensemble. Thus, an observation of a bird became a chamber piece which embodies the flight of a red finch through a forest. As it heads deep into the thicket, the seemingly idyllic landscape becomes tenebrous. Yet, the finch - fearless in its' flight - traverses the woods and bids one final adieu to the listener as it flies away.

Polina Luna: composition, arrangement, and production, piano performance. 

Megan McCafferty: flute

Christian Arroyo Castillo: clarinet

Kate White: basson

Luis Villalobos: violins I & II

Thiago Da Silva: violoncello 

Sam Bigus: contrabass 

Recorded Live at Berklee Production Studio.