By Rocki Gazowsky
At the beginning of this year my life was completely turned upside down, full of mystery. I wasn’t sure what I was going to do. Music has been a part of my life ever since I was a little girl. I did know that I wanted to be in the center of what God is doing. But there were so many distractions everywhere, my “good” ideas, and a host of other things, that it was hard to quiet my mind enough to hear Him. My dad kept emphasizing to me the necessity of a quiet mind.
The way God works in my life is: He usually drops things on me suddenly. When I was a little girl, I could hear symphony music playing in my head. I heard all of the different parts, but it sounded like one. I told my mom one day, “Mom, I hear symphony music playing in my head.” My mom patted my head and said, “That’s nice honey.”
Since my dad is President of WYSIWYG, I was usually around when major decisions were made. When our first movie “Guardians” was filmed, my dad had a famous Christian composer, Fletch Wiley, write the score. I went to to his home in Texas with my dad where he was writing the music. That day I saw a real composer at work, it was fascinating to me. He told me something I would never forget; “Most composers write music as if they are playing a keyboard, but real music has multiple parts.” For some reason, when he said that, it stuck in my brain like glue. This was a key that God used to unlock hidden things in me.
A few years later WYSIWYG had just finished filming “The Roman Trilogy,” and asked someone to write the score. The Budapest Symphony Orchestra was going to record the score, and everything was set to go. But ten days before the plane was supposed to leave, the composer told my dad that he couldn’t complete the score. This was shocking news! There were only ten days to accomplish anything. So, my dad came to me and said, “Would you like to write the score for “The Roman Trilogy.” Immediately I felt my temperature rising. I only took three years of piano when I was at the age of nine, ten, and eleven. I couldn’t even read music without saying the childhood catch phrases like F-A-C-E to figure out what note I was looking at. I didn’t know anything about music theory. But I knew in my heart that this was something I was meant to do. I didn’t know how to start or how to translate what was in my head to paper. I had ten days to write seventy minutes of music for a full orchestra.
That day my dad bought me three small, pocket sized music dictionaries. At the time I was using a midi software called “Reason.” So, my dad asked, “What instruments do you want to use?” He told me, “You can use any instruments you want, go crazy!” I did~ bassoons, oboes, full strings, brass, percussion, the works! I began to play the music on my keyboard for each instrument, in silence watching the movie. The music dictionaries helped me know the range of each instrument. Every morning my dad would take me to Fort Funston to pray, and every morning I could hear the music in my head. After scoring for twenty two parts on one scene, I was hearing something additional. So I asked my dad, “Can I have a choir?” He smiled, “Now that’s what I’m talkin’ about!” While I wrote the music, Abigail Hamre and my dad painstakingly transferred all of the midi files into a music composition software called “Finale.” Then my dad showed me in the music dictionary how to add the articulations to the printed score, and get the sound that I could hear in my head. When I was done the printed music weighed 75 pounds!
We didn’t know if the music was playable, but we had no way or time to test it. So my family and the Watts family flew out to Budapest Hungary. I was so tired that I didn’t have a chance to feel nervous. We placed the music in front of the orchestra and choir and this is what we heard.
(Click Here for a free download)
After the Roman Trilogy I moved on to score for our new film “Gravity,” this time God had me take it to a new level adding more instruments and choirs. I felt like I finally knew what I was doing, like I found my way. But then God threw me into a new mystery, and He told our movie company to take a year of rest.
At this time my dad began to talk to me about have a quiet mind and listening for God. There was a prophet, Vello Vaim, who gave me a prophetic word around four years ago. He said, “God is more concerned with your character than your success.” This word has really tested me because I realized that God wants to work out imperfections in me no matter how small. For example, I loathed washing dishes from a young age. It would take me an hour or longer to finish dishes after dinner. I disliked washing dishes so much that I would daydream of other things, slowing the process down dramatically. My mom would constantly awake me from deep thought and tell me to finish. During these years of waiting for the big breakthrough in the entertainment field, I’ve had a lot of hours to help out around the house; and God developed the desire in me to wash dishes. I actually enjoy washing dishes now! Yes, I know … it’s amazing, right?! Now this may seem like a small matter to you, but the Lord was teaching me many lessons by the simple act of washing dishes. He taught me that things I don’t like to do might be enjoyable if I commit myself to do them.
You might ask, “What does this have to do with writing music?” Everything. If God is going to download music to you, you have to be able to discipline your mind- to shut it down. God will give you an idea that will be uncomfortable for you (dishes), but if you choose to write music God’s way the outcome will be awesome!
When we finished recording the music in Budapest, the first chair of the viola section wrote on the sheet music in English, “Daring music.” When I asked what this meant, the music director told me that the viola section does not usually play with the sections you coupled them with. I had no clue what I was doing, I was just writing what I heard.
You know… when it comes to writing music, all that matters is that we get fresh downloads from the Lord; that He initiates every tune. No copying, no pulling from other sources, nothing that isn’t started by the Father. He wants to give us songs that will bless nations! The longer we wait on God, the greater the victory. That’s the cool aspect of God, He makes sure that if you do it His way, you will win, win big! I want the big win, the kind that only comes from Jesus, because it will last!
Rocki Gazowsky is the oldest daughter of Richard and Sandy Gazowsky and has worked at Christian WYSIWYG Filmworks for 9 years. She has scored the soundtrack for “The Roman Trilogy” with the Budapest Symphony Orchestra, and is currently working on the score for the theatrical release “Gravity.”
30 Comments
January 25, 2008 at 9:52 pm
I am learning the very same thing this week Rocki…My mind has been racing ahead at 100 mph with a friend who is buying my car….It’s like I want to hurry up and see it sold as he has aleady agreed to buy the car and felt the Lord to buy it from me now he is just waiting for the bank to approve him for the loan. But it seems to be taking a longer time than I thought should happen but…The word the Lord kept giving me in my spirit for 2008 is Mike you won’t be late in 2008…..and I really want to get going with a lot of things but it’s very much like each day I must choose to quiet myself and let God do what he is placing in front of me to do….and just relax and let God do what God is going to do…
January 26, 2008 at 10:49 pm
Hi Rocki-
Wow!!! Wonderful music; and to see my name mentioned. I am honored. You got the goods, girl!!! Keep up the great work; God will always honor you for your faithfulness. Keep your heart open to Him. Can’t wait to hear the “next one”!!
Cheers,
Fletch
January 26, 2008 at 11:03 pm
Sweet sweet Rocki!
Much love 2 U from Sweden… life is full of so many lessons… which cannot be learned or taught in a school setting. but only by trusting in a loving God – even when it feels so very hard for the natural man to grasp the weight of what He is depositing within our inner man; our spirit being… but you are called to soar on eagles wings as faith in God takes you to heights where you have never been before – His desire is for you to see yourself and your life from His perspective- high and lifted up.
You are so very sweet and so very special to Vello and me… much love from Ingalill
January 27, 2008 at 12:00 am
Rocki,
The music is wonderful. You go girl.
Always stay in GOD’s will, remember HE will never leave us we have to walk away from HIM. HIS love is always there and HIS hand is outstreached to us.
Love,
Victoria
January 27, 2008 at 4:48 am
Ohhhh my God that’s what I’m talkin’ about, what a “God thang”. Crazy……YEE-HA! Rocki that was/is such a demonstration of faith. I love it! and I can totally relate to it. There’s nothing like when the Lord gives us something to do that just seems insane and doesn’t make sense by mans standards. Doing something you’ve never done before, having little to no experience, virtually no (reasonable) time to do it in and yet the Lord hands ya the task/opportunity and basically says “Trust Me. Go for it!” And what a trip watching Him orchestrate the whole thing one step at a time in ways you would never imagine. One of the bazillion cool things about this is when it’s all over all you can say is, “To God Alone be the Glory!”
Thanks for taking the challenge and trusting Him, and thank you for sharing your story. I love it!
I pray He continues to fill your heart and mind overflowing with music that testifies to His awesomeness, and that has power to moves the hearts of those who listen. : )
January 28, 2008 at 3:02 am
Rocki, this is amazing! Thanks for sharing your heart–it moved me. The Lord radiates so beautifully in you.
Much Love,
Brittni
January 28, 2008 at 3:36 am
Sister Rocki,
Wow! That was amazing! I absolutely loved ” Electas story”. I also really appreciated your testimony as well. The accompanying visuals were also a fabulous bonus. I know i’m not very computer savy, but i’m intrigued by the fact that every time you listen to the song, the visual graphics are completely different than the time before, and very well suited. Yes, i’m easily amused, life is more fun that way! Keep up the wonderful use of your talents, I can’t wait to see what God has in store for you next. God Bless You!
Eldon
January 28, 2008 at 5:42 am
A message for the WYSIWYG film crew.
“According to Sounds” – The sound effects department for “AVP”, who was awarded a “CHRISTMAS DAY” release date for their movie “AVPR” , was once awarded the sound effect award of the year for a “ALIEN SCREECH”. When asked how they came up with the sound effect, their “TRUTHFUL” answer was this, ” I SIMPLY SCRAPED A TOILET TANK COVER, ACROSS THE TOP OF A TOILET TANK”. So be sensitive to those HOLY GHOST
January 28, 2008 at 5:48 am
MESSAGES OF THE LORD”. I for one, recieved my first “Holy Ghost” music sound while a drill was being inserted into my tooth (first cavity ever) at the age of about 14. At the time the 180 B.P.M.S where considered to be redicolous (at the time). But suddenly, “ERA’S” later,
I AM right on time…
True story –
- Hektor Syngettica of Lioniel
January 28, 2008 at 6:49 am
Hi Fletch, it’s good to hear from you. I hope you’re doing well. God bless you.
I love you Ingalill and Vello! What are you up to these days? I hope you visit us soon.
Hi Ana, Thanks for writing! Are you the Ana from Sweden?
Brittni, How are you doing? My brother told me that you said, “hi.” It’s great to hear from you sweetheart!
Hi A.Victoria, I agree with you, I am glad that God’s love is always here for us.
Mike, what kind of car are you getting?
January 28, 2008 at 7:14 am
Thanks for the beautiful testimony from Rocki. I have been blessed to check in at V.O.P. over the past 37 years and see the growth of the vision and the buds turn into fruit and harvest.
I want to thank God everyday for the gifts in the Arts that were reconized in me as a child. Singing/hearing 4 part harmony before I could spell the words I was singing. Playing the piano with both hands – the first time. Drawing people with body parts and clothing – skipping the” stick figure stage.”
Now that I’ve returned to the recording project that my friend Peggy Cole has strongly encouraged, I am excited to see the progress. It’s been a long time comming!
Rocki is a fresh inspiration!
Blessings!
John-Charles 415 647 1983
January 28, 2008 at 7:32 am
John
Wow! What a story I never knew this about you, you should write a book with your story.
God bless. Can’t wait to buy the Peggy project.
Richard
January 28, 2008 at 4:33 pm
Hey Rocki:
Not sure of what kind of car yet….Selling the BMW up here in Canada…Once I get back to San Francisco to be with you guys I am going to be looking…
The Lord seems to speak to me through my cars quite a bit…He gave me several word plays on BMW this past year that have come to pass in my life since buying it. I felt he might have spoken to me about getting an Audi as a symbol of him establishing his covenant…as the Audi’s symbol is 4 interlocking rings. What ever it will be it will be something classy I am sure…
See you shortly…
Mike
January 28, 2008 at 7:29 pm
Rocki-
Thank you for sharing. I really needed to hear this story. The music and singing is incredible. It’s amazing what the Lord can do through us. God has been asking me to do things that I have little or no skill for and I have wondered if I am hearing correctly. Your story gives me hope that I can accomplish that which He calls me to do. Again thank you.
January 30, 2008 at 7:17 am
That’s awesome! Keep being who God made you to be. We are the ones who limit our destinies. Remember that He will do exceedingly, abundantly above what you could ever ask or think, and He can and will do it through you. If you stay in the Lord’s will then where ever you are is exactly where He wants you and whatever He says to do He will equip you to do. I am very excited to see and hear the future projects He puts you on.
January 30, 2008 at 8:06 am
That’s awesome! Keep being who God made you to be. We are the ones who limit our destinies. Remember that He will do exceedingly, abundantly above what you could ever ask or think, and He can and will do it through you. If you stay in the Lord’s will then where ever you are is exactly where He wants you and whatever He says to do He will equip you to do. I am very excited to see and hear the future projects He puts you on.
January 30, 2008 at 11:20 pm
Rocki – I’m one of the people your dad sent an email copy of your “washing dishes” blog entry. I auditioned in SF for Gravity what seems like a million years ago. I’m thrilled to learn more about you, your family and the talents and vision God has poured out on each of you.
At age 56, I’m just 6 years into following my heart’s desire to act. (and sensing the big smile on my Heavenly Father’s face as I do) Not many opportunities in our little town of 3500-ish but this is where God has us planted (my husband of 4 1/2 yrs and me).
I have no idea how God intends to grow my talent, my ministry and my life for Him. I’m like you…God doesn’t generally give me very much advance notice on what He’s up to, but that’s just part of what makes this life here on earth so much of a divine adventure, don’t you think?
January 31, 2008 at 6:27 am
Hi Shelly,
I totally agree. You just wait and see, God will give you an unexpected opportunity to use your gift of acting to the fullest extent.
God bless you,
Rocki
February 1, 2008 at 10:06 pm
Hi Rocky,
Thanks for sharing your story. Very encourage! But it is very hard to have quiet mind and hear from God correctly. It is amazing how God can download music to you. I expect God will download more songs to you to glorify His name.
Br. Steven
February 2, 2008 at 10:06 am
Hi brother Steven,
I believe if we are willing to take risks when we hear God’s voice, and follow Him to the point of losing it all; we will gain everything!
I have found that praying at an inspiring location, such as the beach, helps me quiet my mind. Because, when all I see is God’s creation, I can’t help but to dwell on Him and how awesome He is. I haven’t been able to pray at the beach lately, because I don’t have a car. But I know God is going to bless me with one soon.
God bless you,
Rocki
February 4, 2008 at 10:56 pm
Hi rocki, Give me some time and I may have an answer to your car problem. God Bless, Bro. John.
February 5, 2008 at 1:04 am
Rocki, I’m reasonably sure by now you know of the passing of my sister and most recently Jason. Since these 2 life changing events happened only a year apart I’ve been in a tail spin, talk about loosing direction, I have no direction!!! It feels like my life has come to an end with out ending! What am I trying to say, wheres my purpose in life. Even after buying a brand new trumpet and being able to play with the praise and worship group at church, as rewarding as that should be, its still not enough. Your probably wondering why I’m telling you all of this, I guess its because I felt in some way at some level you would understand and could pray for me that God would my life meaning and direction. God Bless You, John
February 5, 2008 at 9:00 am
Rockie, what a joy to read your story and hear the incredible music that came from God inside you. I am amazed at the process in such short order to figure out even how to use the programs …. without any more musical training you’ve had. I am so proud of you and you are truly a next generation inspiration! May Pappa continue to make His face shine on you and the WYSIWYG family! P.S. It was great to hear how your dad took you places that were “destiny loaded” for you. He has incredible faith in God and trust to see Him do the impossible through his kids. Go Dad Gazowsky!
February 5, 2008 at 9:09 am
Hey Brother John.
You’re blessed when you feel you’ve lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you. Matthew 5:4
These losses are only bringing you closer to God. He knows what you face, He loves you.
The amazing thing is: all we have to do, as God’s children, is “embrace” what God is doing; the little, and big surprises that come our way.
The person who lives in right relationship with God does it by embracing what God arranges for him. Doing things for God is the opposite of entering into what God does for you. Habakkuk had it right: “The person who believes God, is set right by God – and that’s the real life.” Galatians 3:11
This scripture has been so encouraging to me, because I know that my real treasure lies in what God does.
God bless you,
Rocki
February 5, 2008 at 2:53 pm
Good morning Rocki, Thank you for those scriptures and words of encouragement, I will take them to heart. Keep me in your prayers as I will keep you in mine. May God bless you with lots of new songs to compose. As ever Bro. John
February 18, 2008 at 7:19 pm
Rocky,
“Follow Him to the point of losing it all;” I think that is very hard to follow Him to that point. Yet I know by His grace and mercy, He has walked me through fire and water to purify me. He promote me through a lot struggle, when I look back I did see God bring up by going through all kind of difficulty and sometimes He took away something I think it is very preciouse in my life.
Thanks for sharing your prayer experience, but I never prayed at the beach as my routine devotion. Most time I feel I am just a indoor prayer, I felt His presence is just richer when I pray inside of my room.
I believe you will get your car in a miraculous way. I just recalled how got my first car in 1998. I told God my budget and my favorite color, after 5 months, I got exactly what I want!
Praised the Lord!
Br. Steven
February 19, 2008 at 4:45 am
Hi Brother Steven,
The most amazing thing happened last week! God blessed my family with a car, a brand new honda van! It is a beautiful car. Today, I went to one of my favorite spots to pray with my family at the beach. This was such a miracle for my whole family, God is so good.
Yes, you’re right about God’s grace and mercy bringing us through every trial. I know for myself- I need His grace and mercy every day. God has been visiting me, giving me peace in the midst of some really unusual circumstances. I’m so glad at the fact that God is there when we call out to Him, that His love is so complete.
Jesus is awesome!
Rocki
February 19, 2008 at 4:25 pm
Rocky,
Thanks God you got a brand new van. Your family always experience miracle, which amaze me! Wherever Christian meet, they always have a lot to share! I hope you can share more. If you want feel free to set email to yahoo account: stevenq777@yahoo.com
In Lord,
Br. Steven
February 20, 2008 at 1:58 am
Rocki:
God has been good to you guys…congrads on the new Honda Odyessy….I kinda think it is prophetic as you guys are on God’s Odyessy for your life…
God bless you…and see you in less than a month…
Mike
February 20, 2008 at 7:58 am
Yeah, we are so excited about our new vehicle. We were taking public transportation and walking everywhere before. It was fun while it lasted, but it’s nice when change comes.