Mark Isham, a versatile musician born in New York in 1951, began his musical journey studying classical trumpet, piano, and violin before venturing into jazz, pop, and rock. By the '80s, Isham had established himself as a sought-after session musician, collaborating with a diverse range of artists. In 1983, he released his solo debut album, "Vapor Drawings," which showcased his talent for blending electronic and acoustic sounds. This pivotal year also marked the beginning of his successful career as a film composer, with his work on the Disney film "Never Cry Wolf" leading to numerous soundtrack assignments and critical acclaim.

Throughout the '80s and '90s, Isham continued to impress with his eclectic compositions, earning Grammy nominations and awards for his new age and soundtrack albums. His commissioned orchestral work, "Five Stories for Trumpet and Orchestra," premiered in 1992, further showcasing his musical prowess. Isham's success in Hollywood grew with scores for films like "A River Runs Through It," "Short Cuts," and "Blade," solidifying his reputation as a versatile and talented composer. In addition to his film work, Isham explored contemporary jazz with albums like "Blue Sun" and paid tribute to Miles Davis with "Miles Remembered: The Silent Way Project" in 1999.