Composers Finlay Harrison and Lewis Findlay on Creating the Score for A Dairy Story

If you’ve watched the trailer for A Dairy Story, you’ll have heard a glimpse of the beautiful score created by two exceptionally talented young Scottish musicians - Finlay Harrison and Lewis Findlay.

Finlay, originally from Carnoustie, and Lewis, originally from Hamilton, met while studying at Riverside Music College near Glasgow. Both were previously members of the band Cloaks, and director Ian Findlay had worked with them before, having directed the music video for their track ‘Headhunter’. When it came to creating a score for A Dairy Story, Ian knew exactly who to approach.

The pair created the entire soundtrack using a deliberately simple setup - just a keyboard, guitar and a laptop. This stripped-back approach allowed them to focus on music that served the story, responding dynamically as the film took shape.

“We didn’t have fancy equipment or a big studio, just the essentials, but that simplicity actually helped us create something that felt authentic,” said Lewis. “It was important to us that the score enhanced the story without overwhelming it.”

Finlay added: 

“The process of composing the music was about keeping it rooted in the story. Watching the film alongside the team and chatting about the intent behind each scene gave us a deep understanding of the style of music each scene needed, from sensitive, reflective moments through to energetic and lively sequences.”

The response to their work has been wonderful. At our world premiere in IndieCork, several audience members specifically requested information about the soundtrack, and the music has been praised for beautifully honouring the emotional dynamics of the film.

Cloaks’ track ‘Living with Shadows’ also features in the film’s closing credits, creating a full-circle moment for this creative collaboration. We are incredibly grateful for their contribution to A Dairy Story.