Thoughts on Bespoke Performance Notes

 

Thoughts on Bespoke Performance Notes

I have found in my compositions, particularly those that utilize alternative notational systems, the traditional approach of providing uniform performance notes often falls short in capturing the unique essence of each performance. This realization has led me to adopt a personalized approach, one that respects and harnesses the individuality of each performer. Like a tailor crafting a bespoke suit, I write customized performance notes for each of my compositions, ensuring they fit the musician's technical and interpretative prowess .

I begin with a simple, yet essential step: getting to know the performer. By requesting recordings of their previous performances, I engage in a process akin to reading a personal diary. These recordings offer a glimpse into their technical skills, interpretative abilities, and, most importantly, their unique musical voice.

Once the essence of the performer is understood, the task of tailoring the performance notes begins. This process is not just about adjusting the technicalities to suit the performer's skills but about aligning the composition's soul with the performer's spirit. The performance guidance is crafted to resonate with the musician's strengths, to challenge them appropriately, and to guide them in interpreting the composition in a way that is both true to its essence and their own.

In music, as in life, one size does not fit all. A composition, especially one that deviates from traditional notation, demands a unique interpretation each time it is performed. Standardized performance notes, while providing a foundation, often limit the performer's ability to fully express themselves and the composition. By providing customized guidance, I open a world of possibilities, allowing the performer to explore the depths of the composition and their relationship with it.

Alternative notational systems, by their very nature, invite a broader range of interpretation. They are not bound by the rigid structures of traditional music notation, offering instead a canvas on which the performer can paint their interpretation. Customized performance notes serve as the brushes and colors, chosen specifically for the artist at hand, allowing them to fully realize the potential of these innovative systems.

The result of this tailored approach is a performance that is not just a rendition of a composition but a conversation between the composer, the performer, and the audience. It is a performance that breathes with the life of the musician, infused with their personality, their emotions, and their story. This approach does not just elevate the quality of the performance; it transforms it into an intimate, personal experience for everyone involved.

This approach acknowledges that every musician brings something unique to the table, and it is this uniqueness that breathes life into a composition. By tailoring the performance notes to the artist's essence, I not only honor their individuality but also enrich the musical experience for all.