Freelance Music Composers

Name: Michael Spicer
Email: spicer.michael@gmail.com
Website: http://www.myspace.com/michaelspicer
Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Category: Song Composers
Styles of Music Composed: Jazz, Funk, Contemporary, Fusion

Composing Background or Education: I have been composing my own works for two years, and just recently finished my BA in Music w/Advanced Major at St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Canada. I have written mostly jazz and funk tunes, but am always looking to branch out and explore other genres.

Musical Equipment and Instruments: My main instrument is Saxophone, although I also play flute, clarinet and piano. Most of what I write is on piano, but if I’m struck with a flash of inspiration while playing another instrument, I use said instrument. I input all of my compositions into Finale (2008), and/or record myself playing them with GarageBand.

Philosophy as a Composer: For me composing is an organic practice. When I begin to hear the beginnings of a tune in my head, I sing it and try to imagine what instruments could play it, what mood it would evoke, what style it would best suit, etc. I try to develop the tune a little bit in my head before writing it down, because I find if I write down the music and start thinking theoretically too soon, it takes away from the organic quality of of the tune. Of course once I have the core idea of the tune, then my knowledge of theory helps the tune take logical shape and go interesting places.

Additional Information: Though I listed the styles of music I compose as Jazz, Funk, Contemporary and Fusion, these are just my favorite styles to compose in. I have exposed myself to a vast array of musical styles including Rock, Hip-hop, Klezmer, Blues, Latin and Reggae, just to name a few. I am always up for a challenge!

July 24th, 2010. Song Composers.