CLOSED - Q&A with Mike O'Donnell - Thomas & Friends Original Composer

Purchase Mike's Thomas album here:
bit.ly/EngineTh...
I'm very excited to announce this fan Q&A video collaboration with Mike O'Donnell, the original composer for the Thomas & Friends television series.
Mike has crafted many of the most iconic Thomas themes. He has recently released a new CD album with 10 re-recorded themes. If this CD is a success, Mike hopes to do an entire series with recreated classic themes and new original content.
Please support Mike's incredible work and buy a copy. This is such an amazing opportunity for fans of the classic Thomas & Friends series. Don't let this pass! Get a CD while they're available!
Submit your questions in the comments below. The Q&A closes Saturday April 10th. Don't delay! Don't forget to buy a CD copy!
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Thomas Music Compositions by:
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Fiddlesticks Music goo.gl/c9vvzp
HD Restored Thomas Footage:
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Thomas the Train , Thomas Train , Thomas The Tank Engine Tomas i drugari , Thomas e seus amigos , 托马斯＆朋友 , 湯馬仕小火車 , Tomica i Prijatelji , Locomotiva Tomáš , Thomas Og Vennerne , Tuomas Veturi , Thomas et ses Amis , Thomas và những người bạn , homas le Petit Train , Thomas, die kleine Lokomotive , Thomas und seine Freunde , Τομας το Τρενακι , Ka'aahi Thomas , थॉमस टैंक इंजन और दोस्तों , Thomas a Gözmozdony , Thomas és Baratai , Tommi togvagn og vinir hans , תומס הקטר , Il Trenino Thomas , きかんしゃトーマス , 꼬마기관차 토마스와 친구들 , Thomas y sus Amigos , توماس والأصدقاء , Thomas de Stoomlocomotief , Lokomotivet Thomas , Tomek i Przyjaciele , Thomas o Trem Azul ,Locomotiva Thomas și prietenii săi , Томас и друзья , Lokomotivček Tomaž in prijatelji , Thomas och Vännerna , 湯瑪士小火車 , โทมัสและเพื่อน. , Thomas ve Arkadaşları , Паровоз Томас та його друзі
#Thomas #Thomasandfriends #trains #Thomasthetrain

[@ThomasTnPProductions]

This is amazing, Jason! I’d like to ask a few questions to Mike. 1. Have you ever had the opportunity to hear the spanish version or any other language adaptations of the songs that you composed along with Junior? If you ever did, which one did you liked? 2. How was your experience meeting Britt Allcroft and joining to the Thomas The Tank Engine production team for the first time? Did you have an expectation about it? 3. What did inspired you to make music and being a composer 4. Did you ever think that Thomas The Tank Engine was going to achieve worldwide fame and that your music was going to be heard all over the world for decades? Thanks for inspiring a whole world with your marvellous and tremendous soundtrack for the most beloved children’s tv show. Greetings from Chile!

[@wanderingwill0w]

I just have a couple questions, 1.) If you could change any character themes would you? 2.) What was the inspiration for Edward's, Gordon's, and Henry's themes? 3.) Which classic series episode/character(s) is your favorite? (Also have a great day and keep up the great work)

[@TTTE_Guy]

before you read this question, I just want let you know Mike that you are a brillant person! You are lucky to be doing this with Jason, he is also amazing! The question is: what was your inspiration behind the themes of thomas, do you have any interesting stories or info. Thanks!!!

[@reallyusefulengine5594]

What a fantastic idea! Thank you so much for doing this, Jason. I have a few questions I’d like to ask Mr. O’Donnell. 1. What inspired you to become a composer? 2. What was the first instrument you learned, and what is your favorite instrument? 3. What is your first memory of working on the television series, and what is your favorite memory? 4. While working on the television series, at what stage in the production process did you compose the music? Was it when the footage for each episode was finalized, or did you ever compose at the storyboard/script stages? 5. How did you meet Mr. Junior Campbell? When working with him, what did each of you do separately, and what did you do together?

[@reallyusefulengine5594]

Thanks for doing this, Jason! I have some questions for Mr. O'Donnell that I forgot to ask in my original comment. 1. While developing your character themes, did you ever decide to change what character you had written a theme for? 2. There is a theme frequently used with the narrow gauges engines that fans call “The Skarloey Railway Theme.” However, this theme was also used in episodes that did not involve the narrow gauge engines. What did you intend for this theme to represent, and did that change over time? If so, were there any other instances where a theme’s usage or meaning changed over time? 3. Henry’s theme is one of the few character themes to use a 3/4 time signature, and some fans have theorized that this is because he is the number three engine. Is this true? If so, were there any other character themes where you took inspiration from attributes of the character other than their personality? (For example, their number, design, color, whistle, chuffing sounds, etc.) 4. Did you ever write music for the Jack and the Pack spin-off? 5. What is the funniest interaction you have had with a Thomas fan who didn’t realize you were one of the original composers?

[@CocoCoast]

This is going to be epik 1. Favourite theme you’ve made 2. Favourite character 3. How do you feel about the reboot

[@unisbiggestlover]

I think that he will agree with all of us about the reboot

[@InstrumentManiac]

This is so exciting! Mike I can't wait to hear your new themes 😍 My one question is: how has the composition process evolved for you over the years from composing season 1 music until now? What things have changed, what things have stayed the same? Thanks for putting this together Jason, seriously looking forward to it! ❤️

[@WhitehouseFilms]

Which Season of the show did you have the most fun composing for in terms of settings and characters? Not a question but I just want to say that I loved Edward's Season 2 theme. The reprise bit at the end fits his character perfectly.

[@TonsOfTrackmasters]

This is gonna be awesome! What is your favourite theme that you composed? What do you think of Robert and Peter hartshornes themes? What is your least favourite theme that you composed? How did you find out about Thomas? Thanks!

[@CocoCoast]

Ikr. At least the people that helped with the show in the 80s-90s still care about the franchise

[@fives4015]

Alright, so here are my questions: - Did Ringo ever tell you or Junior his opinion about the music? - What was the hardest season to compose music? - Was it hard to work with children when voicing the songs? Did they enjoy doing it? And that's it. Greetings Mike, and thanks Jackson!

[@AdamStanleyCena]

My Questions: 1. If Mattel were to ever call you to do themes for engines go, would you be up for it? 2. If you were allowed to create a theme for an engine, who would you create it for? 3. What was your favourite Thomas album you've composed? (Can be any) 4. Does your CD work on portable dvd players?? Thanks if you answer the questions! (There's an 85% chance I will be purchasing the CD)

[@bluebellsfan8704]

This is unbelievable! Anyway my questions for mike are: 1. Which character do you like/hate the most 2. If you could bring two engines from the tv show to life, which ones would it be. 3. What was it like to make/film the thomas episodes 4. Opinion on the season 25 reboot 5. Do you still ever watch thomas 6. If you could make a character to appear on the TV show, what gender, type of engine and class would it be? 7. Name five of your favourite thomas episodes 8. How long have you liked thomas? 9. If you could rewrite a thomas movie/episode which one and which part would it be 10. Why do you think the missing coach episode was cut 11. Name some characters that you think should have appeared in the HIT Era and CGI 12. Is it true you helped make TUGS? I know it's a lot of questions. But I still wanna know

[@dominicferrini]

1. If you could change a theme from the show what theme would it be? 2. Would you ever recreate the themes using the original season 1 instruments? 3. Were you ever on set with the models? 4. Do you have any stories about what happened while you were originally recording the themes?

[@Zara21king]

1) Was there any fond memories you've had during production? ~Any cool stories, funny jokes, interesting stuff seen/shown to you, or just a certain moment that you cherish for a lifetime? 2) Have you ever thought (or even talked to him) about doing KZbin collaboration pieces with Junior of some Thomas themes? 3) Along with other people asking about composed themes, what was the hardest piece to compose or took the longest time crunch to come up on the spot? 4) (Don't know if this would be too personal to ask or can't answer this due to any certain circumstances but-) Was there anything you were allowed to take home from production (props, merchandise, crew member memorabilia, etc) and if so, are you able to currently show off any in photos? Thank you Mike for all the great memories & partaking in creating such an amazing show for everyone's childhood! -Tim

[@thesodorsamurai2002]

1. Was it true that you and Junior wrote music for S8 at one point? 2. How did you feel when your music was reorchestrated for the Adventure Begins? 3. Any themes you enjoyed making? 4. Which song is your favourite?

[@gwrmusic4214]

Here are my questions: 1. How was the work with Junior Campbell? 2. What was your inspiration for the Themes? 3. Did you like the S1-2 Synthesizer or the S3-7 Orchestra more? 4. What is your favourite band? 5. Which instruments do you play? 6. Which DAW do you use for producing music? PS: Thank you for everything. You and Campbell got me into music producing. Stay healthy.

[@LNERA3PRODUCTIONS]

here are my questions 1 the most difficult theme? 2 did you make music for the missing coach or was it cancelled to early? 3 why didn't you and Junior make the music for season 8 onwards? if this makes it in then I wanna say hi to Mike O'Donnell and congratulate him on the amazing music he and Junior made

[@spencerbrownrigg1483]

Was there ever any talk or consideration of you and Campbell composing magic railroad?

[@TANKENGINEBLUE]

Mike and Jason we love you!!!!! now here are my questions to Mike 1. What do you think of the reboot aka season 25? 2. What was it like working with Britt Allcroft and do you talk to her and the rest of the team now and again? 3. What was like leaving after Season 7? 4. What is your favorite Season of Thomas? and number 5. I kinda already asked this but what do you think of Thomas from Season 8 to 24/25?

[@creativemaster5876]

1. Was there inspiration from the great escape for Oliver’s theme? 2. Were you and junior considered to do music for magic railroad? 3. What’s your favorite piece you made?

[@SodorTrain1225]

I have 6 questions I would like to ask; 1) Will Mike release any TUGS music? 2) Will non Classic Series characters get classic-styled themes? 3) Whatever happened to Junior Campbell? 4) What was Mike's favorite Thomas theme to compose? 5) What is Mike's favorite episode (Seasons 1-7)? 6) What was Mike's favorite TUGS theme to compose?

[@joshuanumber1436]

Questions: 1. What are your thoughts on thomas and friends the adventure begins? 2. What is your favorite shows beside thomas and friends? 3. What is your thoughts on T&F: BWBA era? 4. What is your favorite food? 5. Do you think you can make a culdee fell theme?

[@Cascade2808]

1. What was the hardest theme to make 2. Which season was your favorite to compose for 3. What was your favorite song to make

[@shinyredengine]

I can't wait for this!! 1. Are there any themes that you wrote but then repurposed for different characters/settings? 2. What are your thoughts on the "Engine Roll Call" (the song that would replace the original theme in the eighth series.) 3. Are there any other themes that were inspired by famous/stereotypical pieces of music (ie. Fat Controller, Daisy.) 4. Are there any characters who received themes that you would give new ones for that you feel would fit the character better? 5. Who are some of your favorite characters? Thanks! :)

[@brendambranch9851]

Questions 1. What was it like making the themes for the ghost episodes like ghost train, Duncan gets spooked, haunted Henry, etc.? 2. I know this isn’t Thomas related, but what was it like working on TUGS and would you ever recreate the themes from that show? 3. Did you ever see the crew filming the show? 4. What was the hardest theme to come up with? 5. What was the best song you think you and junior made?

[@percyfan0693]

Hi Mike huge fan of all your music here is a few questions 1. Did you now about the railway series prior to composing 2. Did you ever meet Ringo star 3. Did you ever see or hold one of the original Thomas the tank engine models

[@thomasandrailwayuk4218]

1. What do like about Thomas & Friends 2. What Do You Think About The Reboot For Season 25 3. Are You Going To Add Rebecca And Nia In Your Books

[@JoshProductions07]

1. Were you going to compose music for series 8? 2. Have you heard of the new 2D animated Thomas reboot? 3. Thomas or TUGS?

[@bluskidu]

Here’s my questions... 1. Which type of music would suit Bear from the Railway Series books if he had a music theme? 2. What is in your opinion, the most catchiest theme in Thomas and Friends? 3. Here’s the last one, which theme or song from the TV series was the hardest and most fun to compose? Thanks! - Joshua (bluskiDU!)

[@thomastakealongshow2912]

Questions 1) Have you ever thought up specific themes for Railway Series only characters? If so, who? 2) How did you and Junior feel when you weren’t going to return to compose music for the series in 2004? 3) For the song sung at the end of TUGS Bigg Freeze, was that all that was recorded or was there a longer version? Thank you for your time, I really appreciate your impact on the series. You and Junior were geniuses at what you did.

[@EveningStar92220]

So glad that you decided to do this Mike! 1. Did you do the lyrics for the songs or just the music? 2. How/when did Britt Alcroft reach out to you and Junior? 3. When did you find out that there was an adult fanbase and how did you react? 4. Have you seen any of the fanbase's original music from creators such as Headmaster Hastings, S.A. Music, UpsideNow, or TuggsterIntensifies?

[@abbeyroadfan94-J.P]

few Questions: 1. When making themes, what was the process on how the theme should sound for a certain character? 2. Which themes that you composed is your favorite? 3. If you used the original theme (toby's theme) for the opening do you think the television series would've been different?

[@The_nowhereboy]

questions for mike: did you ever work with Ringo? how did you react to the magic railroad soundtrack? did you know about Thomas before britt made the tv series? how do you feel about the new Thomas show?

[@DoItRight92]

This is going to be cool! 1. What theme did you have the most fun composing? 2. A couple of the people who worked on Tugs/Thomas were starting another Tugboat based show called Theodore Tugboat. Were their any plans or mentionings for you to come and compose the music? 3. In your opinion what season of Thomas had the best music. 4. When you wrote themes did you write them as is it was going to become a music video or the other way around? That’s all thank you for making my childhood!

[@sudriangirl]

Where did the inspiration for James' theme come about? How did you figure out the final version of the classic intro? What was your favourite theme composed? Character or scenery? Thank you for giving my childhood a soundtrack Mike! I will always adore your music and will love to purchase your CD when I have money haha :) -James

[@thomastanker0257]

Hey Mike! You’re music is always so nostalgic for me! I hope that you have a great day! What’s you’re favorite railway series story? Who’s your favorite character? What’s your favorite episode? Out of all your music for the show, which theme is your favorite? How did you get into composing music? What is your favorite book (not Thomas related)? Do you and Britt still talk?

[@LocoMotorinStudios]

Before reading this, I just wanna thank you Mike and Junior for composing some of the most ICONIC music I’ve ever heard! Alright here are my questions What was it like when you were getting the job to compose the music? Did you have fun making the music with Junior? Was there ever a point where you felt exhausted? And finally, what was it also like making music for TUGS? Thanks Mike! Best of wishes to you and your family!

[@beno2002]

Questions 1. How do you feel about Thomas and Tugs having an adult fandom? 2. Favorite character on Thomas and or Tugs? 3. Thoughts on Thomas fan content?

[@TARDIS9]

This looks awesome, Jason! A few questions for Mike (and a hearty congratulations and thank-you for his brilliant work on both Thomas and TUGS!): 1. What was it like to transfer from the railway-orientated feel of the music in Thomas to the more sea-focused element of TUGS? 2. What was the inspiration behind the Thomas theme, 'Night Train' and the 'Danger Theme' from TUGS? 3. Outside of Thomas and TUGS, what is your most favourite music project? 4. Who is your favourite Thomas/TUGS character, what is your favourite RWS volume (if you have read any of them) and why? 5. As well as the sequel Thomas music volume, do you have any other music projects in mind for the future? 6. If you were able to, would you be interested in contributing to any TUGS fan efforts, or making a soundtrack of the TUGS music? 7. (As I and several others, particularly members of Sodor Island Forums, have made TUGS fan projects) Given that there are an infinite amount of Thomas fan projects online, what would you say to those who continue to make fan projects based on TUGS instead of/alongside Thomas fan works?

[@pantostado8759]

I’d like to ask Mike a few questions if I may 1. Has Mike seen fan content that have recreated his original work such as that of headmaster Hastings, S.A Music and other creators ? If so what are his thoughts on them? 2. Are there any neat or funny stories mike has form his Thomas days ? 3. What other interests do you have besides music? 4. What were the inspirations behind many of the songs he created for the franchise? 5. What are some of your favorite artists and albums? Thank you Mike for all the wonderful work you’ve done , and the childhood memories you given me , and best wishes to you.

[@LorcanWoosteralt]

Questions. 1. Favourite rendition of Gordon's Theme. 2. Favourite themes from Series 4.

[@flyinggordonproductions4875]

Questions ⬇️ 1. What are your thoughts on the new reboot? 2. Did you guys ever use the trains off camera for fun? 3.did you always like Thomas ? 4. Who is your favorite Thomas character of all time? 5. Do you miss making the Thomas show?

[@thomastimothy3110]

1) what was you'r most favourite theme you've made 2) how was it to work with Britt, David and Junior? 3)how do you feel about the new direction that thomas has went, do you think season 25 will be a success? 4) what song/theme was the most hardens to compose? 5) what season was you'r favourite?

[@Shadowknight320]

1. How long does it take for you to write up the music for characters, scenarios, etc? 2. Any favourite character(s) from Thomas and TUGS? 3. If given the opportunity, would you and Junior reunite to compose the music for the rumoured upcoming Thomas film?

[@isaiahwilliams2642]

This is Amazing! 1. Were any particular themes or songs more yours or Juniors? 2. Was it challenging to write lyrics for pre-existing themes when you started writing songs for the series? 3. If you could choose any person to sing the Thomas songs, who would be your first pick? 4. What was your first impression when you discovered the amount of covers of your work online? 5. Was there any particular theme, episode score, or song you weren't too proud of? 6. Do you think the music would've been any better had you had an unlimited budget and more time for each season?

[@JmoOnTheBeat]

Who's your favorite character that's not of the classic steam team, meaning outside Thomas through toby If you would put the classic Thomas series songs onto another show with a bit of a change, which show would it be and why?

[@gabrielbarrantescastro4043]

My questions. how did you create the music of Thomas. I mean, what was the process of creating the music from its earliest stage to its final version? How did you feel about Thomas’ music from season 8 onwards? What’s your favorite theme from the classic series? Favorite character? Why did the music changes its style between seasons? That’s all from me. Thanks for making such memoral themes.

[@TheTurntable-2002]

1. How was the process of finding out what music suited the visuals of each season? I myself was facinated by how character of the music changed for each season. 2. The Thomas theme seems to have inspiration from "Maple Leaf Rag" by Scott Joplin (especially the end credits variant when the F major chord kicks in). Coincidence? 3. How was your career prior to the Thomas composing age and how/when did you and Junior start getting into composing?

[@The_Gh0st_LS]

1. Favorite song you made 2. Favorite Thomas episode 3. Favorite Thomas season

[@SootyWill]

1. Have you ever heard your music being played by a band or at a Thomas event? (ie: a band performance, a Thomas theme park, a “Day Out with Thomas" event, etc) 2. Have you listened to any “meme” remixes of the original Thomas Theme Song? If so, which one was your favorite? 3. Is there anything you could tell us about the original “Down The Mine” pilot or the cancelled episode, “The Missing Coach”? Did you and Junior compose any music for these two “lost” episodes? 4. Do you have any funny memories of things that happened on-set or while you were composing music for the show? Needless to say, you and Junior's songs and themes were the soundtrack of my childhood. We've heard your music in DVDs, video games, theme parks, "Live on Stage" events and more. My family will be remembering the classic Thomas songs for the rest of our lives. Thank you so much for all of your patience and involvement with us older Thomas fans too. Keep up the great work and best of luck going forward! :) -Sooty Will

[@aJunctionMalfunction]

This is going to be fun! 1. Any themes made for characters or stories that were never shown on screen? Such as the Missing Coach or Gordon Goes Foreign? 2. You still in touch with Junior Campbell? 3. Did you ever work with Peter Hartshorne when he stepped in during Series 7 in 2003 to take over for composing music?

[@Steamenginesunited3456]

1. Do you ever watch content made by Thomas fans? 2. Do you ever listen to other dubs of the songs? 3. Are there any themes that you aren't entirely happy with?

[@oldaccount3250]

1. Did you ever compose songs for the short lived “Jack and the Pack” spinoff? And if so, do plan on releasing/remaking said tracks (since they haven’t been heard/released publicly) 2. Out of all the characters that you didn’t compose themes for during the show, which one have you wished you had music for during your time on the show? 3. Did any music from Thomas inspire any of the tracks you composed for TUGS, and vise versa? (with Trevor’s and Warrior’s themes sounding very similar) 4. What was the most difficult track you had to make for both Thomas and TUGS? 5. Do any any particular memories from the production of Thomas and TUGS stand out to you? 6. Did you ever get to visit the sets of either Thomas or TUGS during your time on both series?

[@ArtBoy54Productions]

1: If you could redo one of the engine’s themes, which would you and what would you change? 2: *Will there ever be a TUGS CD*

[@BrendamProductions]

Whats your favourite memory from working on the show? Was there a time where the music you made for thomas was used as an inspiration for the music you made for tugs of vice versa? Did you ever think that the show would become as big as it did? Do you get recognised on the street for your work on the show? Whats your favourite music piece? Do you watch any fan content? What was the inspiration to start making music, not specifically thomas but more generally, although a specific inspiration for thomas would be cool too. How does it feel to be such a big part of peoples childhood, especially to people who are now adults and still love your work. I could ask more questions but I'll limit myself. If you ever see this mike, thank you so much for all that you have given me both through Thomas and Tugs. The work that you and Junior did for both shows is amazing and I don't think either shows would have had the same wonderful atmosphere without your music. I am very jealous of Jason getting to have a conversation with you and I hope you know, as I'm sure you must, just how much you mean to so many people. All the best with your future, and I wait patiently for volume 2 of the thomas tunes! Harry (Brendam Productions)

[@HM...333]

1. What was your favourite of your composition for Thomas? 2.When you were growing up, did you ever have an connection to Thomas, did you watch the show, were you emotionally attached to it etc. 3. What was it like working with and for all the people like Brit Allcroft? 4. do you continue to watch the show to this day, if so what do you think of it? Did you like the Brenner era, what did you think of Big World Big Adventures, and what about the reboot? 5. If Thomas was rebooted again and went back to is Brenner era style and you were asked to compose music for the show, would you?

[@NorthWestern1919]

1. How does it feel to know the impact in popular culture that the original Thomas theme has had? 2. If you had to choose any character from the original Railway Series to receive a theme, who would it be?

[@StedEd202]

Here’s my questions How long did it take you to make one theme? What’s your least favorite theme you made? And how does it feel knowing you worked on the original show?

[@gordonh3417]

Every character theme you create is an indispensable part of this animation. these theme are the soul of the whole animation. Thank you for creating so many wonderful character theme👍. My question is, I want to know some interesting things about your theme creation, and how long does it take you to create a character theme, and what do you think when you see these theme is so popular with Thomas fans today wish you have a nice day!

[@shinybluestudios]

Questions 1. What was it like being on the thomas and friends series 2. What are your thoughts on Thomas S25 3. Who is your favorite character of thomas and friends series? 4. Do you know the Wellswoth and Suddery engines. 5. Whos theme did you enjoy composing?

[@DavidTheNickjrFan2003]

Questions for Mike. 1. What inspired you to create Thomas and friends. 2. What is your favorite Steamie/Diesel engine. 3. Are there any thomas characters that are NOT based on real life trains? 4. Which engine did you want to return to cgi. ( BoCo Duke Smudger Lady or Murdoch )?

[@StumpyFunnel]

Q1: have you composed for the down the mine pilot Q2: if Gordon goes foreign was adapted, how would you and jr make the themes

[@swindonproductions4428]

(1)Do any themes have specific inspiration like how the escape theme sounds like the Indians Jones and Great Escape music. (2) How does it feel to have played such a bigarrada in the creation of such an amazing show? Love all of the work you and Mr. Campbell have done.

[@thomasthesmallengine7550]

1. So many of the themes created suit the characters really well. What was the process for coming up with and composing them? 2. Favorite and least favorite themes? 3. What was it like doing Thomas themes, then Tugs themes and going back to Thomas?

[@germex1837]

Heya Mike! Few questions 1.) Did you ever foresee how popular the shows themes would be and how did you react when you saw the amount of music was recreated by the fans? 2.) Did Hit or (later mattel) ever try to have you co-compose music for any of the Thomas films? 3.) After all these years how often do you reminisce of the past and what it was like working with Britt, Junior, and the rest of the crew?

[@Steam_Attack]

-What happened to the original themes of the characters? You have them or Mattel/Hit owns them? -If you had the chance, would you release them on CD/Vinyl? -How long was the original theme song? And why it was cut to 30 seconds?

[@dannythehipster5644]

Who's your favorite character? What do you think of Hartshorne's music? Favorite episode? Experience while working on the show?

[@Thomas1651]

1. What is your favorite theme you've made? 2. Who is your favorite Thomas character? 3. What is your favorite Thomas story? (RWS or TVS) 4. Do you know what happened to (or who currently owns) the joke elderly Thomas face? 5. If there was any inspiration for the themes, what were they? Thanks, and keep up the great work!

[@leonengine1768]

questions 1. after when you stopped making the music for the series after season 7. what have you been up to nowadays? 2. Have you ever read any The Railway Series books? 3. what's your opinion on the CGI series? 4. if you had to eat only one food for the rest of your life, what would it be and why? 5. how many countries have you visited? 6. How did you feel when you found out that Thomas had a big fan community?

[@s_tankengine105]

Hi mike 1. If you could recompose one theme who’s would it be and why? 2. Did you ever think how popular your themes would become back in 1984 ? Thanks for your time

[@LeScarletSinger2]

I'm actually curious about the one Japanese song Mike and Junior did. What was it like to compose a song for a specific audience? And on a non-Thomas note, what was one of your favourite song to write, compose, and/or arrange from your band days?

[@sodorpro]

1. What was the process when coming up with the themes in the show? 2. How long did it take on average to complete a theme? 3. General thoughts on the shows other composers work, like Hummie Mann, Robert Hartshorne, and Chris Renshaw?

[@roxaclock]

1. Did you ever get to mess around with the models on set? 2. What was going through your mind when composing the character themes for the newbies from the 6th and 7th series? 3. Did you and Junior have any unreleased tracks for the 8th series that had been arranged or composed but went unused?

[@thomaspanditfan2435]

What is your opinion on Robert and Peter harthshorne and Chris renshaw's new them compositions? What do you think on recreated classic music in the adventure begins If you ever got the chance to recompose a Thomas special/movie, which one would it be?

[@edwardking02]

Very happy this is happening. Got a few I've wondered for a while now: 1. Have any well-known celebrities or musicians besides Ringo ever approached you or Junior and praised your music? (Someone like Paul McCartney for example) 2. How did you feel about your music being used in other Thomas media besides the show itself, such as in commercials or in a few video games? 3. Did you get to see the film sets at Shepperton Studios often? Do you remember seeing any of the models up close, or recall any particular scenes being filmed? 4. How many of the original crew members do you still keep in contact with? (Junior, Britt, any of the film crew, etc) Looking forward to hearing any possible answers!

[@BlueSkunkGuy]

Questions: 1) What's your opinion on the season 25 reboot 2) How Where You Able To Make The Thomas Songs 3) What Was It Like To Work At Shepperton Studios

[@cheekybluee2]

1. If toby’s theme was the intro what do you think tobys very own theme would be 2. What do you think was your best and worst music 3. How was it like working with junior cambell 4. What are your thoughts on the music we have to this today 5. What is your favorite song that we have to this day

[@the4tierbridge]

1: What inspired you to incorporate things like chuffing sounds and such into the character themes? 2: what does the clicking in the breakdown train theme represent? I have never actually seen two guesses on it be consistent. 3: What is your opinion on the Chris Renshaw and Hartsthorn & Son renditions and remixes of your themes? Can't wait to see what the answers are!

[@sandyeggo208]

I just wanna say it's sweet to see such a great composer interact with the people whose childhoods he wrote the score for... Mine included! Now onto the questions: 1)What were you and Junior's influences when developing the musical style for first two seasons? What changed by the third season? 2)What is your approach when it comes to composing character/scenario themes? 3)Were you and Junior responsible for creating the engine whistles on the show? Was there any other sound design you did? 4)Aside from cut background music, were there any lyrical songs from the show that didn't make the final cut? 5)If you had to rescore any episode from any era of the show (Britt, HiT, CGI era, doesn't matter which), what would it be?

[@ToQ_Ichigo]

Questions: 1. What’s your opinion on the music from Seasons 7-12 ? If you’ve heard it that is. 2. Do you have a favorite character? Or favorite Narrow Gauge engine? 3. Least favorite theme you composed and your favorite one? 4. If there was a character theme you wanted to redo for Seasons 5-6 who would’ve been your choice?

[@dadocta5168]

My questions: -Did you ever have to ask David Mitton or Britt Alcroft to alter a scene for the music to fit in properly? -Did you ever have conversations with the Awdrys? -Have you had your own ideas for episodes?

[@JDU29]

1. whats ur Favourite Railway Sires story 2.witch character was the one who didnt get a theme 3. was brit allcoft gonna adapt the missing coach?

[@OldSquareWheels]

1) Was Harold the Helicopter's theme based on The Dambuster's March? 2) Any special memories of working with Britt Allcroft and David Mitton? 3) When coming up with character themes, were you ever given any specific notes re: how their theme should sound, or did Britt/David leave it up to you and Junior?

[@TheBuriedTruck]

Hi Mike, huge fan of your work! Do you remember what albums/artists you were listening to when you and Junior started composing for the show? What artists/albums most influenced the creation of the character themes? Were there any instances where you and Junior were at odds regarding how a character’s theme should sound and, if so, how did you reach a resolution?

[@duckfan32productions22]

My questions are: -What do you think about season 25? -What is the best theme you’ve composed? ( in your opinion) -What characters do you think yould have been in the TV series that are railway series only?? That’s it, THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!

[@ewanfawkes2708]

When were you first introduced to Thomas? Were you already aware of it due to the books or was the show your first proper exposure?

[@Gempalace]

Just wanted to say Mike, that you're an absolute legend, Also here's my questions. 1). What made you and junior switch from the Smyth style of season 1 and 2, from the more orchestra style of season 3 and onward? 2). How much longer do you think you would've worked on the show had it not been bought by Hit? 3). I've heard you and junior were making tracks for season 8 before Hit bought the show, is this true? And if so, do you have any of the tracks left? 4). Do you still have any prototype or unfinished themes? 5). How you been recently?

[@JustinEarly-uh1fr]

1: what instruments are in Gordon's original theme 2 what was your favorite theme you did for the show 3. What instruments are in the original turntable theme

[@spinballpac-man]

What inspired the TTTE&F theme tune? What’s your favourite piece you did for the show? What was the last piece you did for the show?

[@HunterTWR]

1. How did you come up with what type of music styles to give the engines? Did the Reverend or Britt tell you the engines’ personalities? Did you read through the RWS to get ideas? 2. What music, songs, or musicians inspired “Let’s Have A Race” and “Come For The Ride” (my favorite classic series songs) 3. How was it decided that a small group of children would sing the songs? 4. Why didn’t Edward or Henry get their own songs like characters such as Thomas, Percy, James, Toby, Bill and Ben, Terence, Bertie, and Harold have? 5. What are your thoughts on the classic series theme becoming a popular meme where people play rap songs or make remixes from it? 6. What did Reverend Awdry think or say about the songs and music you did for the show?

[@justhadsoup]

Before I ask these questions I’d just to thank you for being such a significant part of the series that made my childhood, it’s pretty much impossible to say just how much Thomas and it’s music means to me. My first question is: Did you have any history with the Railway Series before being approached to work on the show? My second question is: How much collaboration did you and Junior do when writing the music? Did you work on all the themes together or did you individually compose certain characters themes by yourselves? Thank you very much for taking the time to read this, and I hope you keep happy and safe in the future!

[@tomnathtomtom7737]

1. whats your favorite food ? 2. the most fun to compose ? 3. what do you after composing thomas the tank engine themes ? 4. whats your favorite season ? 5. more tv shows do you watch ?

[@rollingduckstudios8382]

What theme were you most proud of? Would you consider your time working on Thomas as fun? Did you ever get to hold a model in your hand? Did you meet the Reverend on set? If so, what was he like? What did you think of the soundtrack after you had left, made by Robert and Peter Hartshorne?

[@TF47]

Hello! What is your favorite theme you have composed and why? Who is your favorite character from the series? Have you seen The Adventure Begins? What were your thoughts?

[@farawayquarry1330]

1. Rules and regulations and “Thats what friends are for” were never released on any home video, why do you think this was? 2. What was your favorite Sing along song that you worked on? 3. Did you met the Reverend Awdry himself? 4. Did Beatles music inspired you and Junior to make the Thomas music? Thanks in Advance Mr. Mike! I can’t wait to soon get your new CD. Cheers from Mexico!

[@nwrxhenry]

YESSS! questions 1.Which theme did you most enjoy composing and listening to? 2. What did you do after you stepped down as composer for the series? 3.Will you release scoresheets for the themes?

[@thechineserussian]

1. What inspired the musical style that was chosen when writing the shows music 2. Were there any limitations or setbacks when composing and did you find ways around them? 3. How much input was there from the producers regarding the music? 4. What qualities do you think makes Thomas music sound so unique/iconic? 5. Has working on the show influenced your personal style/career? 6. With your current knowledge and experience, is there anything you would say to yourself when you first started working on Thomas?

[@TankEngine97]

1. How did you meet Junior Campbell? 2. Was there any particularly songs that inspired the original intro theme?

[@jackcollins707]

1. Were there any pieces composed by only you or only Junior or was it always collaborative? 2. Thoughts on the Hartshornes re-using the classic themes in TAB

[@masonthedirtywork8367]

1. What is your favourite theme you have composed? 2.What is your favourite Thomas season? 3.What was your least favourite Thomas theme you made? 4.Who is your favourite character from Thomas? 5. Favourite theme from tugs? 6.Favourite Thomas narrator?