The idea coming out of the initial discussion of having a Piano World Composition Competition, I thought a new thread was appropriate. Kreisler has pointed out rightly that we need someone in charge so here I am, audaciously assuming the role of co-ordinator! (Wrenching objection speak now!)

Here are my proposals with parts based on previous discussions: please read thoroughly before replying to avoid redundant questions which will confuse this thread!

Proposal: of a Piano World Composer's Lounge CD Project
1. Aims
We discussed the possibility of having a CD Project for composers, aiming to encourage composers to
(1) write piano music to their preferred style/form in a broad confine of a given theme, and
(2) perform and record their works.

2. How this might work
2.1 Unifying theme
We discussed that the compositions should have some sort of underlying theme. Several agreed on some form of extra-musical reference, with comments that it should not be author-restricted (so not 'poems of X' or 'paintings of Y') and that it should be globally recognised (so not a local holiday/commemoration day)

Here is my proposal: we decide on a theme that is very broad yet unifying seed phrase/word, readily appreciable without research (either into the literature or the art) if none is desired. I propose five possible themes as starters:

1. Aspects of Nature
2. War and Peace
3. Water
4. Holiday
5. Love

If we decide on one of these ideas, we can later on come up with a formal theme that will look/sound good as a CD title!

2.2 Musical constraints
I propose that we submit any number of pieces we like, but bear in mind that to fit into a CD, some form of selection may need to be in place. If we run into a situation requiring selection, I think it's fair that we allocate an equal amount of time to each composer who needs it.

Thus, while we discussed that pieces should not significantly exceed 5 minutes, I would only propose that we are sensible with what we submit. 2-minute pieces are nice little gems but if we don't have enough it might not be worth doing a CD. On the other hand, a 30-minute ballad/rhapsody would be a bit inconsiderate!

Pieces may take any form or style: play to your strength within the confines of the theme! Needless to say, as this is the Piano World Forum, we are expecting piano pieces.

I also propose that if you have already composed something that happens to fit in with the decided theme, you may submit it as long as it is live-recorded (see below). You are however encouraged to write something new!

2.3 Performance
We agreed that all composers should record their compositions (not MIDI playbacks!). I also propose that avid pianists among us kindly volunteer to help out other composers should there be a technical problem regarding performance. It would be the composer's responsibility to contact a pianist of choice.

If you're a pianist and would like to be made available to contact, please let me know!

2.4 Sheet music
I propose that participants should submit sheet music along side their recordings. The sheet music will be combined into a volume made available to the participants, and to wider circles if desired.

Again, we would be very grateful for Finale/Sibelius/Lilypond sharks out there to allow themselves to be bombarded with pleading PMs for help from those who struggling with the software.

3. Dates
I propose that the formal theme should be decided by the 15th June if we want to go ahead, and that recordings should be submitted by 31 October. That leaves 3.5 months which should be ample.

4. What we need YOU to do
4a. If you are a composer seriously interested in participating, please:
- Reply!
- State whether you may need help recording your music or typing up your score.
- State the themes on which you will be happy to submit pieces. This will allow me to decide on one that makes everyone happy! You may also suggest a theme if you don't find any of the five above attractive, in which case speak now and share your ideas.
- Say so if you have something to add to or have disagreements to these proposals and ask any questions. But please read the following posts first to avoid redundant questions/arguments.

I don't think we should proceed unless there are more than six composers willing to offer two pieces each or twelve composers willing to offer one piece each.

4b. If you are willing to made available to contact for help regarding performance or sheet music making, please reply too.

4c. If you feel like co-ordinating this project should it go ahead, let me know. Two heads are better than one!

4d. If you are willing to help out in any other way, please say so!

sorry to put a damper on this but i dont get it. Isnt that what composers do here already post their music for others to listen. Why a CD? If the idea(for composers atleast) is to get your music out there for people to listen, then post the pieces here. Does this CD project give a wider audience? or this CD is some kind of pride, oh yeah, i ahve got my music on CD? isnt this medium outdated anyway(2009!)?
I still like the original idea of a COmpetition here, atleast that makes it interesting

1) alternative theme: October, I think that's a great idea! I'm trying to think of a more exciting alias for it... something like Towards Winter Solstice, it's more inclusive although it's not quite the same thing, he he

I will record using my Zoom H2 recorder.. but will need some help getting this to upload to my computer. If anyone is familiar with this recorder, please let me know.

I personally dont see a need to create a specific CD....If you want compose to special themes, its better to make separated threads with themes and those who are interested, can compose to the themes.