What does astrophysics and music have in common? Nothing, except that Kevin Lau is good at both of them. But in making his career choice, Lau’s passion for music prevailed over his talent for math. Now, as the Toronto Symphony Orchestra’s (TSO) affiliate composer, he is happy he didn’t study physics.

“The ability to create music has always been a part of me. Music was one of those things I felt comfortable doing, and there was something very meaningful to me about musical communication.”

Despite his talent, Lau didn’t think he would become a composer. During his time at Westmount Collegiate Institute, he only ever took one music class. Even though he took one course, his music teacher, Ms. Fran Harvey, had a huge impact on him. He didn’t take her courses but she “encouraged him from a distance.” She knew long before Lau did that he would have a career in music.

Once he decided to become a composer he enrolled in the music program at the University of Toronto. Unlike many music majors, Lau didn’t have trouble finding a job. He composed music for the Mississauga Symphony Orchestra, the Toronto Symphony Youth Orchestra and the Toronto Concert Orchestra before hitting the high note of his career.

“I think I jumped … I just couldn’t believe it. I’ve been going to the TSO since I was, like, 10. I liked attending those concerts, and I’ve always wanted to write for a group like the TSO.”

Lau can’t explain where his musical ideas come from. Since his inspiration comes from everywhere, he can never tell what influences his work. Sometimes it’s literature, a walk in the park or the music just comes to him. But when he is composing music, he tries to stay away from the competitive nature of the industry. The pressure to be creative and unique is intense, but he says worrying about what other composers are doing doesn’t help him write music.

“If you think too much about what your peers are doing you’ll get lost in that. I find that it’s best to listen to my own inner voice and filter out the other stuff.”

Twenty-four hours after his appointment with the TSO, this Westmount Collegiate graduate received his doctor of music in composition from the University of Toronto.

Lau’s first show with the TSO debuts June 12 and 13.