Allison Beth Fitzgerald is an American composer, conductor, songwriter, and violist whose music has never been described as boring, but it has been described many-a-time as “a lot.” With one hundred things going on in her head at all times, Allison’s music provides insight into how she experiences her own life: all at once and with lots of energy.
From a young age, Allison was captivated by the power music has in defining characters and their narratives, inspired by works like Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf and Disney’s Fantasia 2000. This early fascination laid the foundation for her compositions, fueling a lifelong pursuit of crafting music that breathes personality into characters, whether on stage, in concert halls, or on screen.
With a background in cinematography, she first discovered her passion for film/television making behind a camera. This experience led to her first composition: the score to the short film “I Don’t Know,” which she both shot and scored. Combining her conducting and camera experience, Allison has become the score reader for Danny Elfman’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Live at the Hollywood Bowl, helping synchronize IMAG camera movements with the live orchestral performances.
Professionally, Allison works closely with Emmy-winning composer Bear McCreary on his team at Sparks & Shadows, where she serves as Coordinator of Music Administration. There, she contributes to major studio productions as a session librarian, assistant, and studio manager. As a freelance composer, she has written works for Montverde Academy’s Music Conservatory, multiple composer salons, a collection of short films, and more to be announced soon!
The San Gabriel Valley Symphony is a professional orchestra created by working musicians and local leaders to reflect and serve the San Gabriel Valley—focusing on community engagement and social impact. Our mission is to show the next generation in the SGV that a career in the arts is not only possible, but capable of creating real change in their communities and beyond.