Want to be more musically creative?
In part one, I shared one way to never run out of creative musical ideas.
Table of Contents
Here’s another:
Choose a reason to create something. The right reason can bring you focus.
Here are a few of my favorite reasons:
- a gift for someone
- a sample of your work so someone might hire you.
- to calm down, be present, process events or feelings
- teach something to one person in mind
- a more interesting way to practice intonation, articulation, rhythm, harmony, etc.
- assert your existence
Five Human Needs
Most or all of the five human needs, according to Maslow, can be a reason to create.
The five levels of the hierarchy of needs are physiological, safety, love/belonging, esteem, and self-actualization.
Don’t shortchange the importance of the “lower” needs. Great musicians like Bach composed and made music simply to pay the bills and survive.
Here's a list of more
Whatever the reason, finding a purpose behind your music can be the spark you need to keep going. Here are more reasons musicians create. Bookmark this list, share, and come back whenever you need a boost or a reminder.
Reasons to Create Music
- To express emotions that words can’t capture
- To create a legacy that lives beyond you
- To capture a moment in time
- To bring joy to others
- To find relief from stress
- To tell a story
- To honor a memory
- To connect with family and friends
- To make a positive impact in the world
- To feel a sense of accomplishment
- To overcome a personal challenge
- To inspire others to create
- To celebrate special occasions
- To make people smile
- To keep traditions alive
- To feel the joy of improvising
- To bring people together
- To collaborate with other musicians
- To release built-up emotions
- To feel a sense of freedom
- To explore sound and texture
- To break routines
- To experiment with new techniques
- To engage in self-care
- To explore spiritual themes
- To boost self-confidence
- To discover new ideas
- To work through personal challenges
- To channel energy constructively
- To overcome self-doubt
- To develop patience and discipline
- To improve your technical skills
- To turn ideas into reality
- To add beauty to the world
- To take risks in a safe space
- To escape reality for a moment
- To leave your comfort zone
- To focus on the present moment
- To lift up someone’s spirit
- To honor someone who inspires you
- To share your journey with others
- To find joy in simplicity
- To challenge societal norms
- To capture the essence of a place
- To enhance emotional intelligence
- To meditate through sound
- To learn something new about yourself
- To add meaning to everyday life
- To push through creative blocks
- To dive deeper into your instrument
- To explore different genres
- To practice mindfulness
- To surprise yourself
- To express individuality
- To bring calm to a busy mind
- To make a statement
- To play with rhythm and time
- To explore vulnerability
- To feel the thrill of discovery
- To release pent-up energy
- To experience pure fun
- To face fears of judgment
- To refine your artistic voice
- To break free from perfectionism
- To create moments of joy
- To foster resilience
- To express love
- To channel emotions creatively
- To explore harmony and dissonance
- To find balance and rhythm
- To create a lasting impression
Want help creating your own music? My course on structured/free improvisation will show you how to play anything anytime and improvise regardless of your background.