One detail I find in your composition, which is not common in many others, is the presence of a clear and specific musical theme (the solo violin). I must say that this greatly aids in characterizing the protagonist and is a definite plus! The background details and textures are also beautiful. The only suggestion I have is to seek more variations in terms of orchestration: maybe you could pass the violin theme to different instruments. At one point, the voice doubles it, but it would have been very effective to introduce other sections and make more distinct changes (perhaps some woodwinds). The exchanges between the A theme of the violin and the B theme of the piano, which avoid repetitiveness, are well done. On point!
Viewing post in Don Gi - Mothers Guidance (OST 7) jam comments
Thank you for the feedback! I probably should have added more instruments to lead/accompany but I think my memory and ram exploded so I just went with what I had. It was less of a traditional orchestra and basically just a mash of string instruments + high timbre woodwinds in the background. Near 2:30 I have the mandolin play it too, but its mostly just the solo violin again. My programming skills with horns and woodwinds are definitely lackluster, so I once I experiment with them more I'll definitely look towards something like Miyazaki's work for section arrangement!
You can tell that you study orchestration because you have a good ability to write for orchestra. Writing for symphonic ensembles is always a bit more complex, but I don't think it's necessary. Your type of ensemble works precisely because it's smaller, in my opinion. Consider it as an exercise; if you have the time, I would suggest experimenting (even if you don't have to publish it) with winds in addition to what you've written. I think it could work 😊