How do composers compose?
- Shruthi
- Jun 29
- 1 min read
I was delighted to join YourClassical for a conversation about the mysteries of the composing process.
Host Aerin O'Malley asked composers Dan Nass, Janika Vandervelde, and me about the process of turning our wisps of imagination into physically-notated compositions that musicians can perform.
I'm so glad that "Classically Training" picked this topic for their audiences! I want more people to feel that they can compose .
In my view, all that is needed to be a composer is:
the energy to create ideas - no matter how tiny or fleeting they feel
a willingness to stick with those creative ideas for a little while
the ability to (temporarily) live with the uncertainty of not yet knowing where they're going
and to be open to receiving whatever the universe sends your way!
If you can do those things, the rest, in my experience – the technical skills, the practice of a musical tradition or musical traditions, the forming of relationships with performers – will all fall into place.
Happy composing!
Shruthi
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