Joost Diederen (The Netherlands)

Joost Diederen, an Amsterdam-based composer and sound designer, earned his master’s from the Film Scoring Academy of Europe with the Mychael Danna Scholarship, after graduating with honors in media composition from the University of the Arts Utrecht. He has worked as a music assistant on Disney shows like Minnie’s Bow-Toons and Super Kitties and composed for award-winning short films like Waar Thuis Was and Schaduwvolk. Joost is currently scoring his first feature film, Hamartia. With a holistic approach to sound in film, Joost intertwines sound and music to create distinctive sonic identities. More info can be found here. 

Alex Massa (United States)

Alex Massa is a versatile trumpeter, composer, and improviser known for his dynamic approach to contemporary music. With a background in classical and jazz performance and composition, Massa blends technical precision with creative freedom in his work. His work spans a variety of genres, from avant-garde to experimental, with a focus on pushing the boundaries of trumpet playing. Regularly performing in solo, small ensemble, and large ensemble settings, Massa’s innovative sound and engaging stage presence have earned him recognition in the international music scene, making him a sought-after collaborator, performer, and composer. 

Aijamal Samatova (Kyrgyzstan)

Aijamal Samatova is a composer from Kyrgyzstan currently living and working in Moscow, Russia. She has received her bachelors degree from Korea National University of Arts. Aijamal is getting her Masters degree from Russian Academy of Music, graduating June 2025. She is now working on a full-feature film timed to 80 year anniversary since the WWII, release date is Fall 2025.