Biography
My name is N. Samuel Heard, and I am a student at Pepperdine University, studying Music Composition and Theatre Directing. My collegiate-level music instructors include N. Lincoln Hanks (Composition), Brandon Rolle (Composition), Naomi Sumitani (Piano), and Barry Tan (Piano).
I began learning piano at five-and-a half years old, and quickly discovered a passion for it. I excel in ear training. In my rebellious teen years, I distanced myself from classical training and joined jazz band and musical theatre. Throughout my studies at Pepperdine University, I have fallen back in love with classical music, but maintained my passion for jazz and musical theatre. As both a musician and theatre artist, I believe wholeheartedly that storytelling is human nature. My music practically always tells a story, and I tend to lean towards comedic-drama rather than serious tragedy.
All of my concert and dramatic compositions, as well as my performances of other composer’s works, can be found in other tabs. Below, you can find a museum-style portfolio of my work experience in theatrical and film.
Pippin by Roger O Hirson and Stephen Schwartz. Directed by Ellyn Schneider. Assistant Director and Keyboard I
Silent Sky by Lauren Gunderson. Directed by Cole Wagner. Actor and Pianist.
Eleemosynary by Lee Blessing. Directed by Jacqueline Thornell. Composer and Sound Designer.
The Half-Life of Marie Curie by Lauren Gunderson. Directed by Grace Sardar. Sound Designer.
Winner of ShowSearch 2025, with my ten-minute musical "Swing Break"
Short film by Azriel Zhang. Composer for one song at the end of the film.
Short film by Isabelle Harris. Composer for one song in the middle of the film.
Short film by Kysiah Tapia. Sound designer for the opening scene.