Mark Orton
Biography
Mark Orton is an American composer best known for his evocative film scores that blend acoustic instrumentation with subtle, atmospheric textures, particularly in independent and character-driven cinema.
Biography
Mark Orton was born in the United States and developed an early interest in music, studying composition and performance with a focus on folk, classical, and experimental traditions. His diverse musical background has played a key role in shaping his distinctive, organic sound.
Career
Orton co-founded the Tin Hat Trio, later known simply as Tin Hat, an ensemble celebrated for its genre-blending approach that combines folk, jazz, classical, and avant-garde influences. The group gained critical acclaim and contributed music to several films, helping Orton transition into film scoring.
As a composer, Orton has worked extensively in independent cinema, earning recognition for scores that emphasize emotional intimacy and understated beauty. His notable film credits include Nebraska (2013), which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Score, as well as Everything Is Illuminated, Sweet Land, Meek’s Cutoff, The Good Girl, My Old Lady, and Priscilla (2023).
