Have you ever wondered how contemporary music can be made more accessible and engaging for young people? Have you ever experienced a performance where the line between audience and performer blurred, creating a truly collaborative musical moment? 

As a composer, I've been exploring alternative approaches to connect people with contemporary Western art music. This keynote delves into my creative process, focusing on pieces written specifically for young musicians, projects that actively involve local communities, and works that invite audience participation. I will share insights into my process of developing musical ideas and addressing the unique artistic challenges of composing for children, diverse audiences, and community settings. 

My work for young musicians aims to broaden their musical horizons and foster their creativity through specially designed pieces for them to play and listen to. Community workshops transform participants into active performers, contributing to the piece alongside professional musicians. This collaborative approach extends to my work with audiences. By integrating audience participation into my music, I reimagine the traditional concert experience as a dynamic participatory event. This fosters deeper connections with contemporary music, creating more interactive and meaningful experiences for everyone involved.  

Insights from composing participatory and community-focused music can directly inform and inspire teaching practices. By understanding the creative process behind these works, educators can develop strategies for fostering active listening, encourage creative exploration, and build truly collaborative musical creation in the classroom.