More music is being produced and heard than ever before. Streaming increases the audience available to a wider pool of composers and performers, and increases the chances of encountering outstanding productions, including those produced by A.I.
All it takes to start composing is a minimum of technique, a few ideas and, above all, perseverance; you have to start somewhere. Even if inspiration is fleeting, its embodiment is based on the work that precedes it, and on an emotional investment that is often appreciable. The road to recognition and the development of one's own style is paved by many more or less conclusive experiences.
While almost all of us listen to music, far fewer play it and even fewer compose it. And of those who do, only a few manage to produce works that achieve any kind of popularity. It's easy to get discouraged along the way, because the pleasure of creation doesn't always compensate for the usually merciless criticism. The same is true of literature and the arts in general.
Composing is an act of affirmation, because we have to accept the effects of our creations. If you're off the beaten track, you have to maintain your position, even if you have to adjust quickly, and make sure you have some solid support in case of a backlash. Also, most people who cautiously try their hand at composing never get very far, unless they build up their self-confidence along the way. Remarkable composers have assertive personalities and dare to take risks. Even among naïve composers, managing to retain spontaneity seems a prerequisite for continuing to create works that will resonate in heads and hearts.
Happy Music Day and thank you to all our composers!
Denys Lamontagne - [email protected]
Illustration: StockSnap - Pixabay
