Balaban - Original Film Soundtrack

Stealing a prized falcon to fund their dream of moving to Paris, two Kazakh teenagers embark on a transformative journey of liberation and self-discovery. As they navigate the vast landscapes of Kazakhstan, their coming-of-age story unfolds with moments of adventure, rebellion, and poignant reflection.

At the onset of the first Covid lockdown, director Aysulu Onaran invited me to compose the score for her award-winning debut feature. With strict restrictions in place, I had to adapt, finding creative ways to collaborate with musicians and manage the recording process remotely. From the start, Aysulu envisioned the hauntingly expressive sound of the kobyz—a traditional Kazakh string instrument—at the heart of the score. To bring this vision to life, the talented Nurbolat recorded his performances remotely from Almaty, Kazakhstan, infusing the soundtrack with an authentic, evocative quality.

To complement the raw, resonant timbre of the kobyz, I worked with concert and chamber cellist Clare O’Connell, whose expressive playing added depth and contrast to the musical palette. The interplay between the two instruments created unexpected harmonies, blending tradition with modernity. Additionally, electronic elements were woven into the compositions, enhancing the score’s atmospheric and emotional range.

Throughout the process, I collaborated closely with UK-based editor Brin, allowing the musical themes to evolve organically alongside the film’s narrative. This ongoing dialogue helped shape a score that not only underscored the emotional arc of the characters but also resonated with the film’s wider themes of longing, freedom, and self-determination.

The score was recognized as a finalist at the 2022 Music & Sound Awards, while the film itself received the prestigious Best Film award at the 26th ROZE Filmdagen in Amsterdam.