Many of you probably don’t know who Phillip Glass is. Don’t feel bad because when it comes to modern Classical composers, I don’t know many. Glass’ works pretty much stretch across all facets of music. He writes operas, film scores, violin concertos, chamber music (he maintains his own small group that performs regularly) and he even performs at solo piano recitals.
*I recommend watching Glass: A Portrait of Philip in Twelve Parts which initiated my respect for Mr. Glass*
- Image via Wikipedia
To me, one of the most fascinating aspects of human kind is creation- particularly, that of music. To sit in a silent room and write down all that noise that only they hear (It’s crazy, if you think about it but I can say that it is one of the most fulfilling things on earth). His approach is not unique, though. He locks himself in a room with a piano, a pack of pencils and a sharpener. Nothing fancy.
Glass’ music is repetitive and modern and not always well received. His attitude towards his music and the listener is what really stands out to me. He makes it clear that he doesn’t write to solve world issues or make people happy. He writes because he has something to say. It’s not for critics or fans or anyone else.
Of course, that is something every composer (Classical, Jazz, or whatever) tells himself- me included. The thing is, I used to let everything influence what I write. I got into this compositional void from, basically, not being true to myself and writing became such a tedious and time consuming event that I avoided it at all costs. As a result, I left too much of each composition up to improvisation. That resulted in me being unhappy with pretty much every aspect of my musical existence.
It was only recently that I stopped worrying about how to make a tune someone would like. Let’s face it, I’m not all that popular on OR off the bandstand so, what do I have to lose? Philip’s perspective helped reinforce my resolve to write what the music needs to say. I can’t write if I’m worried about the band liking the tune or the horn player digging his part. I have to forget about everyone and everything. Since I learned to do that, I’ve been more productive at my desk and I have never been so confident and fulfilled in my writing.
If you want to be honest, writing music is completely selfish anyway. Why not go all the way? Don’t write for your band, wife, child, dog, mom, the person who commissioned the piece, or anything/one else. It’s all you. I don’t anymore and I couldn’t be happier with my music.
