15) The Creative Process

  The Creative Process.

Although before, I mentioned that each composition was personal and each person undertook a different journey to reach their end goal, there are four basic, main steps of creativity. 

It is then up to the individual how these are adapted. 


The Four Steps of Creativity.
Preparation
Incubation
Illumination
Implementation.

1)  Preparation. The preparation part, for me, was playing (or improvising) on the keyboard.  I tried to find a key I liked the sound of and work out which instruments and style I'd write in.  I personally, don't enjoy this process as much as the other stages.  I like to have an idea in my head and be able to see the progress I am making.

2)  Incubation. Although I may think I have a “final” idea, this is usually where it will change or be dramatically altered from my original thoughts.  This part is where I will often be thinking about my piece and become distracted by something I have heard or something someone has said to me. 

3)  Illumination - This is often the most frustrating moment for me. This is when I know exactly what I want to do and find it difficult to concentrate on anything else.  I usually end up incredibly tired during this period, as I'll spend as much time as I can writing down my ideas so I don't forget them, subsequently lacking in sleep time!

4)  Implementation -   For me, this is the most exciting and rewarding process.  This is where my ideas come together and start to make sense.  This is also when I have enough down “on paper” to be able to analyse and evaluate it.  However, although I have something to listen to, I don't like other people hearing it.  Often, they don't understand what I am trying to do and only fully understand when I have a final “product.” (Charlie: 2008)