Spotlight on Katherina Hristova
- The Night Temple
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Katherina Hristova is a German-Bulgarian award-winning composer for film and media based in Los Angeles. She holds a Master’s degree in Screen Scoring from USC and a Bachelor’s degree in Composition from the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire (UK). She has recorded at iconic stages including Warner Brothers, East West, and Hollywood Scoring, and has collaborated with orchestras worldwide, such as the Spanish Radio and Television Symphony Orchestra (RTVE), The Midland Sinfonia, and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO).
With a strong foundation in melodic development, storytelling, and musical expression from her background in songwriting and concert music, Katherina loves collaborating with filmmakers and animators to bring stories to life. Her piece Maleficent, recorded at Warner Brothers with a 65-piece orchestra in May 2025, won three awards across international competitions: Golden prizes at the Global Genius Competition and the World Artistry Music Award Competition, and 2nd prize at the International Youth Music Competition. She deeply treasures the sound of live musicians and orchestras. Beyond composing, she also has experience in arranging, orchestrating, music editing, music preparation/copying, and mixing.
We've asked Kate a few questions about her career and relationship with The Night Temple:
How did you start your journey in the film/music world?
I’ve been immersed in music for as long as I can remember. As a toddler, I started with group music classes and later cycled through playing different instruments: recorder, flute and piano! I still have a big passion for playing the piano, and always try to maintain my curiosity for learning new instruments.
My love for film music began with the film Mary Queen of Scots. Watching it in the cinema with friends, I was completely captivated by Max Richter’s score. There’s a scene where Mary rides a horse along green, steep hills, and the music adds this overwhelming feeling of tension, yearning, and grandeur. I remember thinking, “I want to do this too!”
From there, I went on to study composition in the UK at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, diving into masterclasses and private lessons in film music, and eventually came to Los Angeles to pursue a Master’s in Screen Scoring at USC. It’s been a journey of following curiosity, passion, and the joy of storytelling through music.
In your opinion, what is the best thing about being part of a creative community like The Night Temple?
I love being part of The Night Temple community! I actually haven´t been part of it for very long, I first discovered it when I volunteered at one of their music conferences in June, and it’s been such a blessing ever since. I´ve met many wonderful, kind, and open people who are also ready to help and support you with anything you need! You are surrounded by people who share the same passion, film and music, so it´s really easy to find like-minded people!
This, in combination with the monthly events they organise, has been something I´ve genuinely been looking forward to! You get to hear new, live music, and meet the composers behind it in a friendly, low-pressure environment! By the way, also with a stunning view of LA!
What types of genres or projects excite you?
I get especially excited about Pixar and Disney films, they have this magical way of mixing story, emotion, and music that I love. I’m also drawn to movies that explore psychology, human behavior, or deeper messages that make you perceive the world differently or see something in a new light. Leaving a film with a fresh perspective is such a special feeling.
And of course, I can’t resist a good comedy! Sometimes all you need is to laugh and let go, and a great comedy just makes life a little lighter.
If you'd like to connect with Kate you can find her on Instagram @kate_h_music or check out her website here.
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