My Journey from Amateur to Professional Composer: Insights and Revelations
As a professional composer, my experience creating my first original piece of music stands out as a pivotal moment in my career. That initial foray into music creation was a significant shift from the commercial sounds I previously aspired to emulate. In 1964, I was very much focused on crafting contemporary and hip music, but alas, my output was simply beneath my expectations. Since then, my goal has been to produce music that resonates with me as much as it does with my audience.
The College Experience
During my college years, I had to complete an advanced composition piece for my final assignment. This task proved to be the catalyst for a profound shift in my mindset and approach to composition. I found myself in an intense, laser-focused state of mind, pouring over my work from the moment classes ended until well past midnight. The process was the heart of my dedication, and the end result was a fresh composition that earned me an A, much to my satisfaction. Interestingly, my classmates found it easily replicable, which underscored the transformative nature of my newfound perspective.
Evolution of Musical Style
The journey from that initial experience has been a fascinating evolution of my musical style. What was once an effort to conform to current trends and styles has transformed into a quest for authenticity. Now, when I sit down to write, the primary goal is to produce something I genuinely enjoy and would want to listen to repeatedly. This shift in focus has not only improved the quality of my work but has also heightened my connection with the music I create.
The Songwriting Process: An Intrigue of Discovery
Ultimately, the process of creating a piece of music is a revelation. There's a moment when the song feels like magic, as if it’s a gift sent from the universe. For me, the process usually unfolds in a natural progression: from the initial chord progression to the development of the melody and, finally, the lyrical content. Each element seems to come together seamlessly, almost as if I'm uncovering pre-existing patterns rather than creating them from scratch. This feeling of discovery never ceases to amaze me.
The chord progression often serves as the foundation, providing the essential structure and harmonic framework. From there, the melody emerges, shaping and defining the piece. The final step, crafting the lyrics, often connects the musical journey to a deeper, more personal narrative. This interplay between the musical and lyrical elements is what brings a song to life and gives it its unique identity.
Despite the rigorous nature of the process, there is an organic, almost meditative quality to it. It’s a journey of exploration and innovation, but one that always leads back to a place of personal satisfaction. I continue to be in awe of the way music can transcend the everyday and touch the soul in meaningful ways. Whether it's the complexity of the notes or the simplicity of a heartfelt lyric, the magic of composition remains a mystery and a joy.
As I continue to evolve as a composer, I am always seeking to push the boundaries and explore new territories within my art. The journey from my first piece to the present day has been nothing short of thrilling, and I am grateful for every moment of it.
Conclusion
My experience in creating my first original piece of music marked a significant shift in my career as a composer. From aspiring to emulate commercial sounds to seeking genuine artistic expression, my journey has been one of continuous discovery and revelation. The songwriting process remains a fascinating blend of discovery and creation, and I am always eager to uncover new layers and meanings within the music I write.
Stay inspired, and let every note you write be a journey back to your core.