The Grimm Composer | by Rian Grimmer

My dear friend, hello and welcome to The Grimm Composer newsletter. My name is Rian Grimmer, I’m a composer, a conductor, an organist, and part-time researcher and full-time music history lover, and I thank you for being with me on this creator’s journey.
 
I won’t bury the lead with you: on October 1st, 2023 I will be launching my YouTube channel entitled The Grimm Composer. It will consist partly of music educational content, and will also provide a glimpse into my artistic process – how I create and produce music for you all, how I transform a concept into a completed object, as well as performances of organ solo works, access to private recitals, essay videos on my niche interests across the musical timeline and genre spectrum, and more! The Grimm Composer is meant to be a respite for all types of people. Maybe you’re someone who needs a little creative boost, some inspiration and comfort to carry on with their art, or just need a place to relax after a long day. Perhaps you’re the type who enjoys watching someone else work on their craft as they inevitably encounter difficulties, troubleshoot problems, make mistakes, and generally figure it out and learn as they go. If you’re an inquisitive and curious sort, as I am, then this is the place for you.
 
I believe that classical music is for everyone, not just for the people who go to conservatory to study it. I want to create a positive and thoughtful community around musical exploration and analysis of historical and current events, where we can ask the question, “How does the music of the past inform the music of today, and indeed, with all that is old being new again in the modern age, how might past and present-day music exert its influence on the music of the future?” The practice of what we call “contemporary classical music” is so broad these days, and with emerging technologies which have democratized the creation and broadcasting of new music, this is both an exciting and intimidating time to be a musician. However, there are just so many ways to create and enjoy music at any level, whatever one’s background might be! I draw back the curtain for you on my artistic process, and show you the diverse methods I use to create music.

Project Announcements:

New Work: "Walden Reflection" - World Premiere Aug. 26, 2023

Announcing the world premiere of my new work for choir! "Walden Reflection" debuts on Saturday, August 26, 2023 at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Cambridge MA, beginning at 8:00pm. Conductors Holly Druckman and Lorraine Fitzmaurice have united their vocal ensembles for a summer choir project to perform Frank Martin's "Mass for Double Choir." This piece began as a collaboration between myself and Lorraine - she crafted the poetry, and asked if I would set the words to music for the double-choir concert. Since my creative process so often involves literary and poetic reference as a springboard, I was only too eager to accept! The challenge was to craft something bespoke for the combined choirs that represented the love and tenderness present in the lyrics. I hope you can be there for the performance on Saturday, August 26th at 8:00pm in Cambridge, but my YouTube channel will document the rehearsal process and the world premiere, so you won't miss a thing if you join me there.

Lecture Series: Stravinsky & The Ballets Russes

During my years as a music student in Boston, I developed an affinity for a certain Russian composer. I'm far from alone in my affections - Stravinsky is one of the most recognizable and influential names in modern classical music. In this video lecture series, I examine the historical events that led to Igor Stravinsky's meteoric rise to fame, and his fruitful collaboration with Sergei Diaghilev's collective of cutting-edge Russian artists and his fabulous ballet company, The Ballets Russes. Join me as I unravel the tale of how these enchanting masterpieces came to be, explore the memoirs of these historical personalities, and examine their lasting impact on contemporary creators. 

First Episode – The Firebird
Second Episode – Petrushka
Third Episode – The Rite of Spring

New Work: "Angelus" - available for streaming and download  Oct. 1, 2023

Not only am I launching The Grimm Composer channel on YouTube, but I’m also preparing for my first major music release! This solo project will combine the sounds of the pipe organ with synthesizers and beats. The goal is to broaden the horizons of the pipe organ and its place in popular music. My single “Angelus” for organ and fixed media will be released when the YouTube channel goes live, with the EP/album to follow in Summer 2024. "Angelus" will be available for streaming on all major platforms, and as a FREE download via my website on launch day, October 1st.

Channel Launch - Release Schedule

Join me for a week-long Channel Launch Event during the first week of October!

Sun, Oct 1: Score Video | "Angelus"
Mon, Oct 2: Composer Vlog | "Angelus"
Tues, Oct 3: Composer Vlog | "Walden Reflection"
Weds, Oct 4: World Premiere | "Walden Reflection"
Thurs, Oct 5: Score Video | "Walden Reflection"
Friday, Oct 6: Launch & Research Vlog
Saturday, Oct 7: "The Monster That Never Breathes | Stravinsky vs. The Pipe Organ"
Sunday, Oct 8: "Stravinsky & The Ballets Russes | The Firebird"

Channel Intro Video

I am also asking your support in spreading the message the good old-fashioned way: through word of mouth. If you think someone you know would be interested in any of these projects, share or forward the above video, or simply share this link. It is my promise to respect your privacy, and to never spam you with unnecessary emails – I believe in the sanctity of the inbox. In fact, if you feel you have been subscribed to this newsletter erroneously, there are no hard feelings if you decide to go.

As social media algorithms become less reliable in generating outreach and creating lasting and meaningful connections, I ask you to consider the music lovers in your life who might enjoy learning and exploring together, and invite them to be a part of this emerging online community. Forward this email, or simply share this link to help connect others.
 
To support any of these projects – music history video essays, live performances and premieres of new works, private recitals, recording projects (like the upcoming single and EP), or the YouTube channel, please consider joining the Patreon. There are many ways to support the creation of this content, and it would mean a lot to me to have your backing as I bring this new music and educational content to the public. Early backers get to see their names on the credit crawl!
 
So come on into my world – enter my composer’s study, pour yourself a cup of tea, and get cozy. I have a lot to share with you about the real life adventures of being a working musician, performing artist, researcher, and creator. There will be many moments for us to enjoy together, and I would consider it my privilege to have you alongside me as I embark on my creator’s journey, and together make our way through the great big world of music.
 
Thank you, dear friend. I hope you will spread the word, and to see you when we go live on launch day! Please stay tuned for the official Virtual Launch Party invitation!
 
x Rian