I am not a composer, and hold a very big jealous streak in me for those who can create music. I gave it a try when I was younger, and was just unable to make something, that I felt, was special, and worth developing.
Being a composer is a tough job, we now live in a world, that demands everything be 100% original, which has lead to some very weird directions in some of the music being written. Though, this will not be a rant about the direction of current classical music, but rather my thoughts on what separates a great composer from the rest of the herd.
Inspired, one of those words that get's thrown around way to often, along with other words like genius. Though, it is essential to good music. I am not referring to the mood of a moment, or even those "AHA!" moments, but rather, a permanent breath of life, that seems to spring forth from life force itself. Whether, that be the composer or God, or whatever one chooses to believe that is. No amount of technical prowess or knowledge can make up for this inspiration.
I believe that this is a spiritual quality that anyone is capable of despite their personal beliefs. Many people can have a spiritual sense without believe in a specific deity or religion, so this is not a religious spark.
Composer's need faith, faith enough in their own abilities, in themselves, in their convictions, enough so that they will sacrifice, put themselves on the line physically as well as emotionally, if need be; those people will find victory in the end.
The hard truth is there is not quick fixes or detours, for this kind of satisfaction. Quick, fleeting successes, will hardly feel worth while, and the weight of the many great composers of the past can weigh down on a person's soul until they are in despair.
Though, despite all this, I feel that composers who can endure, through the mental blocks, the exhaustion, and sometimes having to forgo physical comforts, that it will pay off, the walls do tumble down. It happens for others, and for the many great composers in the past who found their voice.
Believe in what you are doing, have faith, and keep composing, and your music will find a way to endure!

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