The Theisen Journal is an online periodical exploring both 1) happenings in the broader New Music community and 2) my personal creative work as composer/saxophonist/theorist.

Issues contain news, noteworthy performances, thoughts on the craft of composition, reviews, essays, analysis, interviews, listening suggestions, and more - all through a positive and fundamentally optimistic lens.

Posts tagged process

Issue No. 16: Three Aspects of My Compositional Process

During the past two decades, I have composed over sixty pieces (and several more during my youth that I later removed from my works list). In that time, I have definitely cultivated a compositional process that works for me. I absolutely concede that everyone composes differently but in this issue of The Theisen Journal I share three aspects of my compositional practice that I believe lead to positive results.

Composition EssayAlan TheisenFebruary 3, 2021creative work, process, composing, how-to Comments

Issue No. 14: Creativity is a Process We Allow

Entering 2021, I have spent a lot of time recalibrating my creative energies and in doing so have refined certain mindsets that work positively for me. In this issue of The Theisen Journal I would like to share some interrelated musings on creativity that you may find empowering, useful, or intriguing.

CreativityAlan TheisenJanuary 13, 2021creativity, process, imagination, action, creative work, motivation Comments