How Easy is it to Compose My Own Music? By Lauren Paltrow Platinum Quality Author

For the experienced piano player, composing their own music can be a great new challenge, and if you can play the piano already, then there is really no reason not to. Whilst it's true it can be daunting, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions that always seem to come up when people begin to contemplate writing their own music.

Is it easy to compose piano music?

When you are just starting out, then you will need to begin at the beginning. Composing your own piano music is as easy or as difficult as you want to make it. This sounds a fatuous thing to say, but you need to start writing music for beginners, and then work your way up to a more expert level. If you do this, then your skills will develop along with the standard of music that you write.

How beneficial is composing for my own playing?

The more you learn about writing, and as your skills develop, then the more aware you will become of the intrinsic workings of the music, and what the original composer intended. When you understand the inner workings of the music, then your understanding of playing it will also improve. Thinking and feeling like a composer can only be good for your own playing.

If I compose my own music, will my music reading improve?

As you are thinking like a composer rather than just a player, then you will find it more and more easier to understand music that you may have balked at before. As you progress, and begin to notate your own music, then you will be amazed at how much easier you find it when it comes to reading complicated music.

Should I use manuscript paper?

If you are working on a budget, then it's worth bearing in mind that notating sheet music is as expensive or as cheap as you make it. You can buy an expensive notation program, or you can use normal everyday paper - it's really up to you - what you find easier to use and also what you want to spend. If you are just starting out, then I would strongly suggest that you begin the way it has been done for centuries - a pencil and a blank piece of paper. Some of the best composers even today simply jot down musical ideas on a plain piece of white paper after drawing five lines by hand.

Setting aside ten or fifteen minutes of practice to making your own music, If you practice for thirty minutes each day, can really help your general standard improve. Another great benefit of making your own music comes through the fact that it can be a wonderful addition to your practice routine