Free E-Book: Six Steps to a Finished Composition
A Professional Composer's Approach to Creating Music
What You'll Learn
Step One: Find Contrasting Ideas
Spark creativity with small, emotionally resonant ideas.
Step Two: Develop Your Ideas
Transform your ideas using techniques like retrograde, inversion, and transposition.
Step Three: Sketch the Whole Composition
Create a “continuity sketch” that outlines the arc of your piece.
Step Four: Create a Short Score
Layer harmony, dynamics, and structure in a multi-stave sketch.
Step Five: Orchestrate Your Composition
Paint with sound by assigning instruments and colors.
Step Six: Finalize and Share
Prepare parts, mix, master—and let the world hear your work.
About the Author
Giel Vleggaar is an award-winning Dutch composer blending classical, pop, jazz and other styles into expressive, accessible compositions. His works have been performed at the Concertgebouw, the Holland Festival and beyond.
Book a Free First Lesson
Get personal feedback and guidance tailored to your style and level. Whether you’re writing for orchestra, synths or something experimental, let’s set up a meeting to discuss your music.