Some people here know that I compose music on the piano. In fact, outside of the online world, that's what I'm more known for. However, I've come across something really disturbing. I havn't composed a song in four weeks.
On average, I'd compose about three songs a week, then take out parts of those songs I liked, and put them together to make what I would consider a longer, but enjoyable song. I've tried everything to get back on a composing streak: trying new chord progressions, attempting new melodies, attempting new styles, and even playing random keys in hopes that I hit three or more keys that at least sound good and new.
I've tried extending it on trying new styles of art since that affects my music a lot as well. Two of the weeks I spent in Italy without any musical instrument near me, but it doesn't affect me since I generally come back after a vacation and create more songs than usual.
I don't know what to do, I'm just striking blanks. I've hit road blocks before where I don't compose for about five days, but I generally get around that. Four weeks just worries me. Any composers here have any suggestions on how I might get back to composing?
This reminds me of my almost year long problem with not being able to draw. From about November 2004 - September 2005 I drew almost nothing and made no progress on my movie. I hated it so much. It made me feel totally worthless, so I know your pain.
I took a vacation from it all (Vegas) about that time, and it did me well. When I got back, I had a clean slate (similar to what you describe) and drawing was easier for me. I sort of had to force myself to do it for the first few days, but it eventually started flowing again. I've had a couple of minor dry spells since then. I don't really know how to describe it. It's almost as if some part of me that I don't have much control over just decides on its own wether to be productive or not.
All I can say is either wait it out and not work at all for a while. Or force yourself to work (probably producing subpar work in the meantime) until you get your stride back.
Well... I've been making maps for a few years but now i just start maps and ddon't finish them. I'm just not motivated as much, maybe that is your problem too? You should think of something your doing it for. Have any girls you like? Just go with the flow, think of her while you are composing..
Work through it, I guess. Eventually you'll snap out of it.
I compose random stuff when I hold the guitar. Everything I've done are short pieces that I'm too lazy to put together... It's just a thing called inspiration. I had a time what I just didn't feel like playing the guitar at all, but now I'm back on track.
Don't worry, it will come back when the time comes.
Listen to some music (preferably classic), then copy and edit some minor parts of the melody. Make it how you like it. Then make something yourself, make it sound original, and bind it together. Viola!
Hilariously, I think it took writing down my frustration as an inspiration. I think I have some small lead into a song. I'm not so sure though if it's from another song since it has a familiar sound to it. Hate it when that happens.
I know what your feeling. I normally take the time when I can't think of anything to simply go for a run while listening to some old compositions of mine. I normally end up singing along or something, then I just go off into my own improvisation, then its just a matter of remembering that until I get to the piano. Then I simply put it down, and boom block is gone and I make a bunch of stuff right afterwards.
I can't imagine not being able to think of something for four weeks though.