Dren McDonald

Dren McDonald is a composer and sound designer currently working at Windup Minds, where he is involved in creating music and overseeing audio for various digital experiences, particularly in the gaming industry. His expertise spans a wide range of media, including video games, film, advertising, and virtual reality (VR) projects.

Professional Background

McDonald has an extensive portfolio, having composed scores for notable video games such as Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Ghost Recon Commander, and Transformers: Age of Extinction The Game. He has received multiple accolades for his work, including three Game Audio Network Guild Awards for his score in Gathering Sky and a win for "Best Game Cover Song" in 2014.1

In addition to his work in gaming, McDonald has scored films, including the documentary The Edge of Success, which was featured at the Cinequest Film Festival in 2019. He has also contributed to VR animations and AR projects, demonstrating his versatility across different media formats.13

Education and Teaching

Beyond composition, Dren McDonald has experience in education, having taught graduate-level music courses at institutions such as the University of California, Santa Cruz, and the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.1

Current Role

At Windup Minds, McDonald plays a crucial role in shaping the auditory landscape of their projects, contributing to the company's mission of creating engaging and meaningful digital experiences.23