Composer Mark Evitts Interview: Scoring Apple TV+’s ‘Frog and Toad’

Every generation has its own cherished children’s shows, but few characters have stood the test of time like Frog and Toad. These characters have delighted audiences since the 1970s, capturing the hearts of kids and parents alike. Apple TV+ has brought Frog and Toad to life in a delightful new series, where composer Mark Evitts plays a crucial role in bringing magic to the screen.

Partnering with an exceptional voice cast including Tom Kenny, Ron Funches, Nat Faxon, Fortune Feimster, and Kevin Michael Richardson, Evitts weaves his musical talents into the fabric of the show. By understanding each actor’s unique style, he crafts melodies that complement their performances.

One standout moment for Evitts was Richardson and Faxon’s duet on “Keeper’s Song,” which originally started as a fiddle tune. Drawing from his musical roots in Paducah, Kentucky, Evitts infuses elements of jazz, Dixieland, and bluegrass into his work, creating a sound that resonates with Frog and Toad’s friendship.

Evitts sets the tone for each episode with lively banjo tunes, capturing the essence of Frog and Toad’s adventures. Their unbreakable bond is reflected in the music, creating a joyful atmosphere that sets the stage for their escapades.

With Frog and Toad in the running for the Children and Family Emmys, Evitts sees this recognition as a celebration of the collaborative spirit behind the show. Each contributor adds their unique talents, coming together to create something captivating and beautiful, much like Frog and Toad themselves.

The lush, natural landscapes of Frog and Toad provided inspiration for Evitts’ compositions, with wooden organic instruments complementing the beautiful visuals. From campfire scenes to elegant dining moments, his music reflects the evolving settings and moods portrayed on screen.

Working closely with vocal performers like Tom Kenny, Kevin Michael Richardson, and Ron Funches, Evitts tailored his songs to fit their voices, finding the perfect keys and melodies to showcase their talents. Each actor’s unique style influenced the songwriting process, adding depth and charm to the music of Frog and Toad.

In every episode, Evitts aimed to match the beauty and uniqueness of the animation with his music, creating a harmonious blend of sound and visuals. His attention to detail and collaboration with the voice cast brought Frog and Toad’s world to life, enchanting audiences of all ages.