A composer creates music, and the terms may or may not be used interchangeably. A songwriter, on the other hand, creates shorter works with song elements. For the most part, the terms are interchangeable, but composer may refer to writing music in the classical or jazz genres, as well as longer pieces. To further complicate matters, given the length of the piece, someone writing a rock opera is almost certainly a composer, even if songs from the opera become very popular pieces that are enjoyed a wider audience.
Composers from the past are often quickly recognized, with names like Mozart, Beethoven, Handel, and Wagner springing to mind. The demand for composition has increased in recent years, resulting in a rise in the number of composers. Many of them will go unnamed most people, though a few, particularly those related to film composition, may be easy to guess. A composer like John Williams, who composed the Star Wars score as well as the ominous score for Jaws, is likely to be remembered. Others, such as Phillip Glass, who add something new or different to the way instrumental music is interpreted, may also have a large following.
It’s fascinating to consider the scope of a composer’s work. He or she could write music for symphonies, symphonic bands, jazz ensembles, gospel choirs, classical choirs, and a variety of other ensembles. Music could be performed live, recorded, or used in TV, radio, or film. A composer may be paid in advance to compose specific music, or a person who is actively involved in the musical world may simply compose compositions, similar to how a novel or poem is written. When works aren’t requisitioned, the composer may spend time trying to get a performance or a recording of the work.
Music composition entails a variety of factors. Composers, whether formally trained or not, must understand the sound of instruments, the sound of how to mix notes, chords, and keys, time signatures, and previous work in order to remain original. Training and/or genius may aid the composer in putting together and writing music in the end. Scoring software, which can help play different musical instruments and write notes, has greatly aided a number of composers. Others would rather do it hand.
Although someone who has written one poem can be called a poet, most people consider a poet to be someone who has written many poems. Composers are similar in this regard. Many people compose just one piece of music, but most composers create a large number of them. Continuing to work and create new pieces may be the best way to define them.