In such a competitive industry where you’re expected to stand out, we often strive for "best" - the best composer, the best techniques, the best pieces of music. Yet, that mindset makes it easy to lose sight of what makes music genuinely captivating: uniqueness and authenticity. Today, we're stepping back from the external (and even internal) competition that often overwhelms creative fields to embrace a different mindset: “Don’t be the best composer. Be the right composer.” This shift in perspective is not just refreshing, but also deeply liberating, and here’s why…
The Myth of the "Best"
In the music world, as in any art form, the notion of being the "best" is as subjective as it is elusive. What does the best even mean!? Is it technical skill, innovation, popularity, or a combination of all three? The criteria are ever-changing, influenced by cultural shifts, personal preference, and time. Striving to be the best turns into an endless chase where the finish line keeps moving! Striving for excellence often brings more attention your way, opening doors to new career prospects (yay!). But, not all of these opportunities may even align with your passions or goals, ultimately leading to a feeling of being drained and burnt out.
The Power of the "Right"
Now, let's talk about being the "right" composer. This is where your individuality shines, where your unique experiences, influences, and emotions pour into your work with distinct quality! Being the right composer means understanding the context of your work, what you're communicating, and to who. It means you’ve filtered out all the distracting noise, honed in on your unique identity, and showcasing your work authentically. This paves the way for exciting career collaborations with people you feel inspired by and aligned with!
Being the Right Composer in 3 Steps:
Start by understanding that while you can't control others' perceptions, you can control your own authenticity and how you hope to be perceived. Reflect on the richness of your experiences, present it with confidence, and the right audience will naturally gravitate towards your music because of who you are!
Next, consider your current tools: samples, gear, all of it. These external factors do not define you or your music. Being the right composer means making the most of what you have now, and understanding that great music comes from creativity, not just resources!
Finally, commit to continuous learning and embracing new inspirations. The right composer evolves, blending influences from different sources to enrich their style, leading to a deeper connection with their audience.
Aspiring to be the best composer, musician, or educator is as natural as childhood dreams of being a rock star! Don’t get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with aiming for success but maybe it’s best to redefine the best! Be the best version of yourself, hone your unique skills, share your experience. That’s how you start your path to being the right composer!