Creativity is Generosity.
The blog is launched. Nice! I’m calling it Hey Wait, That’s Music. It’s a place to share thoughts and ideas, tips and tricks, and maybe even a joke or two.
Wondering who I am? That’s complicated, but I can tell you what I do. I compose and write. I teach composition and more at the Longy School of Music, and I’ve been at it for a while now.
Why start a blog? The shortest answer is, at this point in my life, I have a few things to say, and I want to share them with the world.
So, where do I start? How about a deep, deep philosophical discussion on the concept of genius in music . . . No? . . . I can write a long post on that one. . . Well, I guess I’ll save it for later.
I will start with an intersection between two human behaviors I think about often: generosity and creativity. Even though I fail regularly, I aspire to be both a generous and creative person. Those aspirations keep me grounded, and engaging in the work that springs from their pursuit makes me feel most human.
As an artist, I believe creation is, fundamentally, an act of giving. It’s the practice of sharing your thoughts, your values, and your music. It’s also the ritual of giving to yourself.
Care about those who receive your creative gifts. (Yourself Included)
Creativity and generosity are born from action. They are intentional. They can be developed, and here are a few ways to do so:
Make your work available: Don’t hide what you do. Talk about it. Post it online. Create a crowdfunding campaign. Maybe even start a blog. . . Seriously, sharing your work is an act of generosity.
Listen to your collaborators: Seek feedback at every step of the creative process. View it as a well of creative energy. Draw from it to keep yourself motivated. Give the time to listen to and incorporate creative ideas from your performers. Your music will be better for it.
Give your audience the gift of clarity: What is your music about? It’s common for my students to struggle with this question. Maybe it’s too vague. Maybe a better question is, what do you want listeners to take from your music? There are so many answers to this question, but if you struggle to find one, so will your audience. Do you want them to experience something familiar in a new, unusual context? Do you want them humming your melodies for the rest of the night? Do you want to lay bare the injustices that surround us? Maybe you just want them to dance.
Be generous with yourself: Give yourself the time you need to create. Find the space you need to create. Give yourself the time and space to discover what you need. Creative energy is not endless. Replenish it often. Indulge your curiosity. Learn something new. Look for more ways to share your gifts with others.