Brian Blume / percussionist / composer / educator

Thoughts on Composition:

I believe a good composition, whether it be through virtuosic demand, or through totally unique artistic vision (or a myriad of other ways), should affect a listener or performer in an authentic way. If we are not communicating anything through our composition, why are we composing? Another aspect I believe to be important is the educational benefit of composition (for composer and performer). I recognize that composing is a great learning tool for all musicians, and I also recognize how a composition can be an important part of the education process for a student or ensemble who learns and performs the piece. A third value of creating new works is the potential for new collaborations. Composing for instrument combinations that currently have a limited repertoire can be a valuable endeavor and experience, again, for both composer and performer. These are some of the ideas that guide my composition and that I encourage in new works.     -BB