[
Date Prev][
Date Next] [
Thread Prev][
Thread Next]
[
Date Index][
Thread Index][
Author Index]
Re: What do you think is necessary in order to have an excellentcomposition?
Quoting margaret noble <margaretnoble2000@yahoo.com>:
> what is a great composition to you?
To me, I enjoy works that appeal on all levels: physical,
intellectual, and spritual. I find that when I return to great
compositions, I can always find new things in them that I didn't catch
before.
> particular structures?
Most great works exhibit some unifying element. It could be a motiv,
a theme, or perhaps just a rhythmic motiv. Music without some kind
of unifying elements tends to become amorphous and, well... to me just
kind of boring.
> rise/build and climax?
Sometimes. Some great minimalist work achieves almost hypnotic
effects and dramatic climaxes would be counter to the style. The
"climax" idea is a romantic notion and suggests music that is dramatic
and emotional. There are great works that are quite dramatic and
others that are understated.
> elements of surprise?
I don't think surprise is very important. After all, the surprise
only occurs on the first hearing. On subsequent listenings, it is no
longer a surprise. Bruno Walter, when writing about the music of
Mahler, said that the true test of art is that "after the newness and
novelty wears off is there underlying beauty?"
> predictability?
Great comedians have written that, when delivering a routine, you
don't want every line to get a laugh. I suppose the same holds for
music -- every bar does NOT have to contain a something new. When the
key, rhythm, motivs, etc... are completely unpredictable, the result
becomes raucous at first and then just boring.
Unpredictability is like "spice" -- a little here and there gives
interest. Too much and the meal becomes unpalletable.
> tonal structures?
> rhythmic structures?
> depth and reverb?
> frequency distribution?
I don't know if any of these qualities are indicators of greatness
when it comes to compositions.
> quality of sound?
Many a great musician has "rocked the house" with crummy equipment but
most of us would prefer to play in optimal conditions.
A great sound system doesn't assure great music however great music
will better reach its potential with a great sound system.
> what else?
Margaret, I wish I knew what makes a great composition. If I did, I'd
be writing them!
The best that I can do, as a composer, is to be true to myself and not
try to be someone who I am not. I attempt to write music that will
give moments of entertainment and inspiration to listeners.
I have found that if I tell myself, "Today I am going to write a GREAT
composition that will be A BIG ARTISTIC STATEMENT... that I completely
shut down!" Nothing I write measures up to the grand cosmic statement
I wish to make.
Thus, I just compose stuff and don't worry about greatness.