So I stumbled across Sequenza 21 a couple months ago and have been a fan ever since. So here I am, fresh out of grad school with a degree in composition looking at a blog featuring an experienced contemporary composer. This is what I read: (paraphrased) Don't get a BM in composition. Get a worthwhile degree, a decent job and compose nights and weekends.
Wow. So much for all my dreams and lofty hopes. So much for all that tuition I paid and continue to pay...
When I think about it, though, perhaps he has a point. I mean having a day job might be ideal for a composer. If I want my music to be truly independent, my own voice, then I should not rely on others to pay me according to how much they like the sound. I don't need to have credentials and publications and awards in order to write great music. Someday I will plunge into the highly competitive world of academia, but not right now.
When I was an undergrad, I told a professor I was interested in teaching higher education someday. He said, "Well, someone's gotta do it."
I didn't understand what he meant at the time, but after helping my supervising prof get her tenure, and witnessing the irrelevant hurdles required, I think I know exactly what he meant.
So that's where I'm at. I'm helping my dad with his small business in a small town in rural Pennsylvania. I have composed more things in the last six months that I like personally than I composed in my final year at school. I spend quality time with my wife, daughter and newborn son.
Mission accomplished, so far.
I'll keep you posted.
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