Journal
Notes from the studio & stage

Composition · 16 August 2025
How to Start Composing Music — A Beginner’s Guide to Creativity and Structure
Composing music is both thrilling and intimidating. Whether you dream of writing a symphony, scoring a film, or creating your first song, the blank page can feel overwhelming. The good news is that composition is a skill you can develop step by step. Step 1: Listen and Learn Before writing, immerse yourself in music. Analyse…

Gig Performer · 8 August 2025
Gig Performer vs. MainStage — Which Live Performance Software is Right for You?
For musicians who perform live, a stable and flexible software rig is no longer optional — it’s essential. Two names dominate this space: Gig Performer and MainStage. Both aim to transform your laptop into a powerhouse of virtual instruments, effects, and routing options. But they take different approaches, and choosing the right one can make…

Gig Performer · 8 August 2024
Keyboard Rig Setup — A Guide to a Flawless Live Performance
As a keyboardist, your rig is your lifeline on stage. A poorly configured setup can mean panic mid-performance, while a flawless rig lets you focus entirely on music. Whether you’re building a simple two-board setup or a complex laptop-based rig, the principles remain the same. Step 1: Define Your Needs Ask yourself: How many sounds…