Composition Conversations
Quick, think of a composer! Chances are, you thought of someone like Mozart, Beethoven, or Bach. Although their work is amazing and widely celebrated, they share one important thing in common: they’re dead.
Join us as we explore the captivating works and inspiring stories of current composers that are redefining the landscape of music with their unique styles. In each episode, we immerse ourselves in a composer’s music and delve into their motivations, inspirations, and the intricacies of their compositions. Get to know the artists who are shaping today's musical landscape.
Whether you’re a seasoned music enthusiast or a curious listener, Composition Conversations promises to expand your auditory horizons and introduce you to the rich tapestry of today's vibrant composers.
Episodes
6 episodes
Ep. 5 - James Noyes: Unraveling Debussy, Poe, and Elise Hall
All great artists take inspiration from their predecessors. Whether that is in visual arts, literature, or music, by studying the techniques of great figures of the past, one can gain knowledge that may be essential to their own work. Today's g...
Ep. 4 - Elizabeth Gartman: Embracing Absurdism
Let's say you're writing a story and need to pick a main character. What would you choose? Probably a human; if not, maybe an animal or even an alien species, if you're into sci-fi. In one of her pieces, Elizabeth Gartman chooses microplastics....
Ep. 3 - Alex Tedrow: U.S. Army Band and Community Engagement
Imagine the president of a foreign country has just arrived in the United States and is stepping off the plane. Immediately, they are welcomed by a lush, heroic rendition of their national anthem played by professional musicians who play for th...
Ep. 2 - Wesley Thompson: Blurring the Boundaries Between Genres
Think about your favorite song. What type of music is it? Pop? Rock? Maybe rap? Regardless of your answer to this question, most songs and pieces can easily be categorized into these types of music called "genres". Even within classical music, ...
Ep. 1 - Eli Greenhoe: A Microtonal Master
For centuries, composers and musicians have adhered to the limitations of equal temperament, a tuning system that defines the 12 tones we’re most familiar with. Almost every melody and song you've heard likely uses this system. But in reality, ...
Ep. 0 - Composition is Alive and Well
Classical musicians constantly program works by esteemed composers like Beethoven, Mozart, and Tchaikovsky. While the works of the past are undeniably remarkable, we need not look back in time to find exceptional classical music. All around us,...