Bryan Franz is a 21 year old musician who writes neoclassical electronic music. His music is a blend of classical-style arrangements with modern electronic tones and guitar solos. Listeners often say his songs have a strong cinematic feel.

Bryan is finishing an associate’s degree in mechanical engineering this semester, and is going to be a junior in mathematics this fall.

Bryan started writing music when he was about thirteen. Having just bought some MIDI software for $10, he was excited to write some instrumental songs. They sounded pretty good to him, but something seemed wrong about them. Soon he learned that all he was missing was a beat, key, chord progression, melody…

Now, eight years later, Bryan has studied music theory in college (well, he took a few classes), played guitar in numerous bands with varying success, learned from many great musicians, composed and arranged music for local plays and skits, and generally has had a lot of fun learning about music.

In the summer of ’08, Bryan decided to finish the CD he had been dabbling at for years. This turned out to be the hardest musical challenge he had ever experienced. Choosing the name “Winter Takes the Stars,” Bryan decided to focus the CD on sci-fi themes, while still featuring several classical-style songs.

The album features synthesized instruments, as well as recordings of Bryan playing electric and classical guitar parts. It also features guest musician Benjamin Kiekel on classical guitar for the song “So far the night sky,” and the ending of “Fallen als Romantik.”

Ok, enough third person writing…

- Thanks to all the great people who helped me make this music! Your input and encouragement has made all the difference.

To see my comments on each song and a complete thank you list, please view my blog on www.Myspace.com/WinterTakesTheStars

Music is an easier way for me to communicate emotions and concepts without being misunderstood. My songs are usually either written from an emotional or analytical standpoint of a situation in my life, or based on concepts found in literature. Especially sci-fi! I love the writings of Isaac Asimov, Douglas Adams!! Another huge influence on me has been Joss Whedon’s Firefly and Serenity.

I would love to hear what you think about my music, and also any ideas that will help me improve. I’m still learning a lot about music – it’s so great, I’m glad I have the opportunity to do things like this.