What does a music creator actually do?
A person who is skilled at creating music can fulfill a career in several roles. They can be a composer, arranger, songwriter, beat-maker or producer. The music creator takes pitches and rhythms and constructs them into melodies, basslines, beats, harmonies, chord progressions, songs, film scores and programs (setlists, playlists, concert programs, albums, etc). The primary concern of the creator is to be true to their internal vision or passion for what they want to create. This is where expression is given priority of skill or marketing. The creator has a unique voice, something that sets them apart.
What does it take?
The primary focus of the musical creator is neither skill or talent but it is the intent to create. The intent of giving form to personal expression. The job of creator often begins with a request that is voiced like this, “ I would like you to create something for me”. This request could come from a film director who would like you to compose a score for a car chase scene. It could also be from a young singer who needs a hit dancehall beat for a song. Whatever the request, the creator will need to respond from an honest place of creativity. “Yes, I can do this” or “No, I can’t do this”.
This means in order to be successful the creator needs to make his/her mark in creative expressions that truly reflect their passions and values.
They will also need to be skilled in presenting their creativity. The ability to notate music or use a computer to record musical ideas is vitally important. Putting together a portfolio that indicates the type of work that the creator enjoys or has experienced success with is also important.
The creator will not only study music theory, harmony, music composition, arranging and recording but they will often say yes to any opportunity to write music to get practice.
Study and a future in Jamaica
Avant Academy of Music offers lessons in music theory both as private and group lessons. The approach to music theory is always a creative one, where the student is given many opportunities to write music and improvise. There are music theory exams offered under the London College of Music Exams in both the classical and pop music theory formats.
Jamaican Orchestra
There are many courses online and at universities abroad in songwriting, music composition and arranging that you can register for.
Jamaica does not have a great tradition in producing a lot of composers that situation is beginning to change and in the future with more orchestras and groups there will be a wider range of opportunities to create music beyond beat-making and pop songs.
Take the next step
Contact us if you want more information on how the programs at Avant Academy of Music can help you to become a music creator. We can recommend a musical path that will give you a strong foundation.
Email: info@avantacademyofmusic.com and WhatsApp: (876) 829-3702