As artists, most
of us are aware of the delicate balance that exists between being true to one’s
art and meeting the desires of our audiences. However, these two philosophies need
not be in opposition to each other. I feel that is important for all of us to
create ways to unite these goals as the perpetuation of quality music depends
upon it.

Being a
composer, I often envision myself being in the middle of the traditional composer-performer-audience
paradigm, instead of at the beginning. I am always looking for ways of how I
can meet the needs of performers to help them communicate with and excite their
audiences. As a result, I choose to invest all my profits from the sale and
performance of my music and recordings into various programs I have designed to
help the performer reach out to their audience with both new music and custom
arrangements.

I invite all
performers and composers to visit my website at http://cooppress.net to look at
the grant programs and free offerings as an example of some of these
possibilities. Our programs assist performers with commissioning, recording,
custom arrangements, and fundraising for non-profit organizations and schools,
and are win-win opportunities for both the performer and the composer. I would
love to hear your ideas for anything else you think could be done to bring
performers, composers and audiences closer together.

I also encourage
other composers to consider partnering with performers to help them reach their
audiences and I hope that all performers will examine how working closely with
a composer can benefit both their own musical development and that of their
audiences. There is nothing more stimulating to an audience than hearing a
piece of music for the first time and having the composer present to share
insights into the creative process. In my opinion, it should a part of every
program presented.