Ep 177-Jennifer Jolley on Nurturing Confidence

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Composer. Blogger. Professor Person. Probably best known for her composer FAIL blog “Why Compose When You Can Blog?” where she posts her rejection letters online, Jennifer Jolley actually does write choral, orchestral, wind ensemble, chamber, and electronic works. She has been commissioned by ensembles and institutions across the United States and currently teaches at Ohio Wesleyan University.

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Composer Jennifer Jolley discusses how she dealt with a lack of confidence, not believing in her music, and why she self-publishes.

Topics discussed in this episode:

Lacking original ideas
Valuing your musical opinion
Nurturing confidence
Choosing concert music
Getting performances
Affirmation techniques to build confidence
Using the Superman stance
Bring a friend
Making tweaks
Composition competitions
Whycompose.com
Website content
Staying top of mind
ADJ*ective New Music
Self-publishing vs. traditional publishing

Website:

jenniferjolley.com

Recommended Listening:

The Podcast Mission

To help composers with the business end of writing music through mindset, marketing, and business skills.

The Philosophy

I believe that composers are self-employed small business owners. In order to succeed in getting our music in front of people who are interested in hearing it we need to know essential business skills such as marketing and networking. Building a successful career as a freelance composer is possible and thinking like an entrepreneur will help composers make a living writing music.

The Promise

I promise to deliver high-quality free content through the podcast and newsletter that will help you build your career as a composer. I want my free content to be better than other people's paid-for content. I also have online courses and am available for speaking and coaching.

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