Reasons for a Commission
When you commission, sometimes it’s good to have a reason that you can publicize.
Composition
Having A Name For What You Write
Early music theory study focuses on having names for things. But that’s not the end goal.
Composing and Notating
Don’t mix up the two. Composing and notating are different skills.
Why To Commission
There are lots of reasons to commission new works. Or maybe there’s only one.
Arranging As Painting
Of all forms of musical writing, a cappella might be the closest to painting in sound. But don’t take my word for it.
Trashing Yesterday’s Work
Trashing yesterday’s work is part of the gig.
What Was Hard/What Is Hard
Being creative is always hard. But what makes it hard can change over time.
Never Gets Old
At what point in the career of a composer does it get old to hear your music performed?
PDQ
An appreciation of Peter Schickele.
More Unison
Ask yourself what the melody really needs.