His compositions have been used for many years across a variety of media, including radio, television, films, and video games. They have also been performed by ensembles of different sizes, giving von Doernberg opportunities to gain early experience conducting his own music.

Von Doernberg studied at the Musicians Institute in Hollywood and at the University of California, Los Angeles. During his time there, he also had the opportunity to learn from renowned film composers and Academy Award winners such as James Newton Howard, Alan Silvestri, and Hans Zimmer — influences that continue to shape his musical approach today.

Rettward can be reached via email.