Episode 5: John Altman - BAFTA and Emmy award winning composer, arranger and musician
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
Release Date: 07/29/2025
Episode 8: Behind the Mic: Migraine Musings and Interview Insights
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
In this episode, Me’sha Bryan reflects on the journey of the podcast, sharing personal anecdotes and insights from previous guests. She discusses the importance of audience engagement and the learning experiences that come with podcasting. Me’sha emphasises the value of thoughtful reflection and community building within the entertainment industry. Links: Takeaways Me’sha has chronic migraines, which he openly discusses. The podcast has reached a significant milestone with its episodes. Engagement with the audience is crucial for the podcast's success. Me’sha's presenting style is...
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Episode 7: Mike Nolan - Bucks Fizz and Beyond Part 2
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
In this, the second part of Me’sha Bryan’s interview, listeners are taken on a captivating journey through the life and career of Mike Nolan, a key member of the iconic band, Bucks Fizz. The discussion delves into the origins of the band's name, the whirlwind experience of winning Eurovision, and the dynamics within the group. Mike shares candid thoughts on his solo career and the creative freedom it brought and a heartfelt recount of his final performance with Bucks Fizz and the emotional standing ovation he received. Key Highlights: The story behind the name "Bucks Fizz" and its...
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Episode 6: Lee Hall - From Billy Elliot to New Horizons
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
Join host Me'sha Bryan as she delves into the creative journey of acclaimed writer and lyricist Lee Hall. Known for his work on "Billy Elliot," Lee shares insights into his multifaceted career spanning film, theatre, and radio. Discover the stories behind his latest projects, including a new screenplay and a unique adaptation of Bertolt Brecht's "Mother Courage and Her Children." Key Highlights: Lee Hall's reflections on the success of "Billy Elliot" and its impact. The creative process behind adapting classic works for modern audiences. Lee's thoughts on collaboration and the importance of...
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Episode 5: John Altman - BAFTA and Emmy award winning composer, arranger and musician
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
Join us as we delve into the fascinating career of John Altman, a BAFTA and Emmy award-winning composer and arranger. From working with legends like Diana Ross and Amy Winehouse to scoring iconic scenes in films like "Titanic" and "GoldenEye," John shares his incredible experiences and insights into the world of music composition. Key Highlights: John's early musical influences and family background. The story behind arranging "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life" for Monty Python. Insights into composing for films and the unique challenges it presents. Anecdotes from working with renowned...
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Episode 4: Me'sha Bryan - Celebrating Our Podcast Journey
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
In this solo episode of Stage and Screen, Me’sha Bryan expresses gratitude to listeners and discusses the podcast's journey. She introduces herself, shares her background in acting and singing, and highlights the behind-the-scenes efforts that go into producing the show. Me’sha also celebrates the contributions of early guests and teases upcoming interviews with notable figures in the entertainment industry. Links: Takeaways Me’sha Bryan expresses heartfelt thanks to listeners for their support. The podcast has received thousands of views and positive feedback. Me’sha shares...
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Welcome to Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan!
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
Welcome to my brand new podcast, "Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan". I'll be interviewing actors, directors, singers, lighting and stage tech, writers... Basically, if they've got anything to do with the entertainment industry, I'll be speaking with them. My first 3 episodes are with Mike Nolan, formerly of 80s super group, Bucks Fizz, Mark Buckley, sound engineer to the stars including Sir Tom Jones, Dame Shirley Bassey, Ed Sheeran... and Jon Xue Zhang who starred alongside Michelle Yeoh in the Netflix series, The Brothers Sun and is currently filming the role of Ram-Man in the upcoming...
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Episode 1: Mike Nolan - Bucks Fizz and Beyond (Part 1)
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
In this engaging conversation, Mike Nolan, a member of the iconic 80s group Bucks Fizz, shares his journey from humble beginnings in Dublin to international fame. He discusses his early musical influences, the formation of Bucks Fizz, memorable encounters with celebrities like Princess Diana, and the life-altering accident that changed his perspective on life and performance. Mike also reflects on his successful pantomime career and the challenges he faced after the accident, showcasing his resilience and passion for entertainment. Mike's Social Links: Takeaways Mike Nolan's early passion for...
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Episode 2: Mark Buckley - The Art of Mixing: Insights from a Monitor Engineer
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
In this conversation Me'sha Bryan interviews Mark Buckley, a seasoned monitor engineer with nearly 30 years of experience in the music industry. Mark shares his journey from being a drummer to specializing in sound engineering, particularly in mixing monitor systems for high-profile artists. He discusses the technical aspects of his role, the importance of sound quality, and the challenges of balancing a demanding career with family life. Mark also provides insights into the tools and techniques he uses, as well as the unique experiences that come with touring. Mark's Social Links: Takeaways...
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Episode 3: Jon Xue Zhang - Ram Man in Masters of the Universe
Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan
In this engaging conversation, Jon Xue Zhang, a multi-talented actor, writer, and producer, shares insights into his journey in the entertainment industry. He discusses his time management skills, the importance of life experiences in shaping his acting, and how meditation has played a crucial role in maintaining emotional balance. Jon reflects on the challenges of being typecast, the significance of networking, and the value of gratitude in his career. He also shares anecdotes from his experiences as a stunt performer and his excitement about his role in the upcoming He-Man film. Jon's...
info_outlineJoin us as we delve into the fascinating career of John Altman, a BAFTA and Emmy award-winning composer and arranger. From working with legends like Diana Ross and Amy Winehouse to scoring iconic scenes in films like "Titanic" and "GoldenEye," John shares his incredible experiences and insights into the world of music composition.
Key Highlights:
John's early musical influences and family background. The story behind arranging "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life" for Monty Python. Insights into composing for films and the unique challenges it presents. Anecdotes from working with renowned artists and directors. The evolution of music in commercials and TV shows.
John’s Web and social links:
John’s Altman's Book - Hidden Man - My many musical lives
https://www.instagram.com/johnaltmanofficial
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7lOzXZOSd2FAQ8LBcJWFdL?si=IPKtL1QqTMih2qt9jgTueQ
IMDb
John’s Wikipedia Page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Altman_(composer)
Me'sha and the Stage & Screen links:
Stage & Screen Links:
00:00 Introduction
01:20 Early Musical Influences and beginnings
04:56 Career Progression and Collaborations
11:10 The Creative Process of Composing Music
16:40 Navigating Music Copyright and Originality
22:15 Collaborations with Directors and Artists
32:02 Navigating Royalties and Historical Context
33:30 Collaborating with Renowned Artists
35.24 The Birth of the 10 Room
38:35 Memorable Performances and Celebrity Encounters
40:05 The 10 Room’s Unique Atmosphere
46:32 The Evolution of Live Music Venues
49:24 The Importance of Community in Music
52:04 Reflections on Musical Connections
56:02 The Creative Process and Pressure
01:03:40 The Musical Journey of Titanic
01:07:57 The Haunting Legacy of Titanic’s Orchestra
01:09:55 Artistic Choice in Film and Music
01:11:59 Reflection on Career and (no) Regrets
01:15:57 The Importance of Collaboration
01:20:00 Recognition and Awards in the Music Industry