Composers and Arrangers

Extensive experience writing music and playing at least one instrument is highly recommended for people who want to enter this career. Attending a musical institution is not a requirement for becoming a composer, nor is it any guarantee of success. Some say that composing cannot be taught, that the combination of skills, talent, and inspiration required to create music is a highly individualized phenomenon. Authorities have argued on both sides of this issue without resolution. It does appear that genetics plays a strong part in musical ability: Musical people often come from musical families. There are many contradictions of this, however, and some authorities cite the musical environment as being highly influential. The great composers were extraordinarily gifted, and it is very possible that achieving even moderate success in music requires special talent. Nevertheless, you will not be successful unless you work extremely hard and remain dedicated to improving your compositional talents at every opportunity. Prospective composers are also advised to become proficient on at least one instrument.