Hey guys and girls! I was wondering if any of you could send me links to any good sites explaining how to become a composer.. and you all the stuff that comes along with it.. Please also give me your tips and other stuff.. If you would like to send me an email or add me on msn my address is musio4fun@hotmail.com
Studying music theory is definately huge. If you're new, get "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Music Theory". It explains music theory in a way that's quick and easy to understand while still teaching you important information.
Being a composer is often tedious and a long process and in order for it to occour spontaniously you must have great skill so buying a book and reading it will not always work, but having said that study some musicology (music history) and you will find it easier. Also if you just listen to heaps of music (eg. bach is good) you will pick up alot of tips and you will find it easier to think of techniques and instrumentations to use. Hope that helped a bit
It doesn't sound like you have access to a music therory course, but a web site that may help you learn is musicthery.net. It also has practice exercises to help you practice the basics.
-Monica
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Oops! I spelled the link wrong... www.musictheory.net
Always think of a tune in your head first. Also I have gotten into a major habbit of Improvising many of the compositions I have composed. This proess makes you think fast while you are playing. You have to think of which key you are going to switch to and so forth. Also, at the very beginning do not try to write a colossal composition like a opera or a symphony, stick with short easy songs and then start thinking about those other things that I have mentioned.
I have NEVER studied theory. I still compose though... I reccomend variations on a simple theme as a good starting point. Make sure each variation relates the theme to the listener and portrays the original theme in some way.
alex