EP 105: How Tim Heintz Creates Emotion Through Music

Welcome back to The Jazz Flyte Podcast. I’m your host, Darrell Scott, and this week I’m joined by legendary composer, producer, and keyboardist Tim Heintz—a true behind-the-scenes force in the world of music and sound design.

Tim takes us on a journey that began with him playing organ as a child and blossomed into a career that’s spanned decades and genres. From the soulful stylings of Chaka Khan and Michael McDonald, to the intricate soundscapes he crafts for Disney theme parks and Universal Studios, Tim shares the artistry, organization, and soul behind his music. He opens up about what it takes to log those 10,000 hours, why there are no shortcuts in music, and how learning to “forget everything and just play” changed his creative game.

We talk about his orchestral project 4 Days in November—born from tragedy and created with musicians in Budapest—and how music continues to be his tool for emotional storytelling. Whether you’re a jazz lover, film buff, or Disney fan, this episode will give you a deeper appreciation for the people behind the magic.

He even drops hints about his return to the smooth jazz scene and current solo piano work.
If you’ve ever wondered how cinematic moments are scored, or how the magic behind a Disney production is created—Tim pulls back the curtain.

Connect with Tim: https://www.timheintz.com/