Breton Vivian stands out in today’s field of film and television composers, staking his reputation on music that favours depth over grandstanding and nuance over noise. With an Emmy nomination and prominent work on Taylor Sheridan’s television phenomenon, Yellowstone and its spinoffs, Vivian has emerged as a significant contributor to the tone and atmosphere of contemporary prestige series. 

Vivian’s musical sensibilities did not grow from the classical conservatory alone. His early years as a guitarist in English hardcore punk and metal bands lend his scores a lived-in intensity and an unfussy authenticity, qualities that make his compositions feel rooted and immediate rather than ornamental. This perspective proved invaluable as he moved into film, notably with his recent work on Guan Hu’s Black Dog, which won Un Certain Regard at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. Here, Vivian’s music moved between minimalist unease and understated lyricism, complementing rather than overpowering the film’s narrative. 

Rather than drawing attention to itself, his music operates with a kind of quiet confidence. Vivian does not indulge in grand gestures; instead, he works in the service of the story, using his understanding of contemporary and classical forms to reinforce what is already there and to subtly alter the audience’s emotional register, often without their realisation.