Faith in Motion: Henry Busili’s Cinematic Journey through “Periapsis”
- WOMCO
- Jul 2
- 3 min read
Henry Busili's composition "Periapsis" was awarded the Platinum Prize in the Film/Game Music category of the 2025 Season 2 Carl Reinecke International Music Competition.
Biography
A lifelong music and film enthusiast, I’ve been inspired by legends like Hans Zimmer, Max Richter, James Horner, and Javier Navarrete. My passion for storytelling through sound began early—I composed and produced music and SFX for the award-winning short film El Avicultor by Gabriel Chiang at age 19.
I specialize in film scores, cinematic instrumentals, and immersive sound design. Some of the films that have shaped me—Gladiator, Interstellar, Manchester by the Sea, and The Dark Knight Trilogy—continue to inspire my inspiration to composition and creating timeless music that resonates with its intended audience.
Whether crafting orchestral soundscapes, emotional piano solos, or genre-blending instrumentals, I strive to create music that carries depth, emotion, and lasting impact.
I believe my talent is God-given, and I aim to honour that gift by offering the best work I can create—always for the people.
Could you share the inspiration behind "Periapsis" and the message you hope to convey through it?
As a passionate film and music fan my whole life, I’ve always been inspired by cinematic storytelling. I’m also a sci-fi enthusiast and deeply appreciate how technology has empowered humans, composers and filmmakers to achieve incredible feats.
When I watch a trailer or film that resonates with me, it sparks something inside—and the music just pours out. I deeply connected with the trailer for this project.
I want this piece to convey that life, like music, is full of ups and downs. But if you persevere and keep orbiting your purpose, eventually you’ll reach your “Periapsis.”
What was your creative process like while composing "Periapsis"? How did you approach the structure and dynamics of the piece? In creating music for film contexts, how did you address the interaction between the visual narrative and the musical elements in your reimagined work?
I begin by watching the film to understand its story and message. Then, I break it down into sections and compose to complement the emotion and rhythm of each scene.
I loved the touching narration at the beginning of the trailer about humanity, so I paired that with a subtle intro featuring a beautiful female vocal—something I’m naturally drawn to, especially vocals and choirs.
As the tone darkened, I transitioned the music with effects and introduced a steady melody to support the dialogue without overpowering it. Finally, I built up the score to match the stunning visuals of space and technology, reaching a crescendo that closes with a classic trailer-style ending for the title reveal.
This created a fitting structure—beauty to chaos, to mystery, to perseverance and hope—allowing the dynamics to build throughout the piece toward a powerful crescendo.
How did you collaborate with the musicians for the recording, and were there any memorable moments during the session?
This was a solo project, composed and produced in my home studio. Unfortunately, I didn’t take behind-the-scenes photos during the process. Like with most of my pieces, there's a moment at the end when I say, “I don’t think I should touch this anymore—it’s finished.”
I usually don’t know what I’m going to create at the beginning, but by the end, I’m always amazed by how it came together and what was birthed from that process of belief and perseverance.
Would you like to share your experience participating in our competition and thank anyone?
It was an honour to participate in this competition—especially seeing such a wide range of categories, including Film/Game Music, which is my passion.
A special thanks and shoutout to the Holy Spirit.
"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."
— Philippians 4:13 (KJV)
Follow Henry Busili on Instagram: @onemalachite
