A few months back, I created the Composition Quest Log – Level 1: downloadable list of writing prompts to push composers outside of their comfort zones and try new challenges. As a result, people created some awesome music and we’re kind enough to share it with yours truly. It wasn’t too long before the VGM Academy community started coming back to me with some fantastic compositions.
One of those composers is named Ben Burnes (aka Abstraction). Ben reached out to me to update me on his progress, and I was super impressed by what he was producing for the Composer Quest Log – Level 1 quests. I asked him if he would let me feature his music on the blog here at Video Game Music Academy, and he agreed. He also happened to be the first person (to my knowledge) to complete the entire quest log! In short, if this were a race Ben would’ve totally won for creating high-quality tracks for every challenge. I’m actually rocking out to his SoundCloud playlist of compositions from the first quest log as I write this.
“Abstraction,” Ben’s composer nickname
NOT ONLY did Ben complete the entire Level 1 Quest Log with style, he did it LIVE. Every Wednesday, Ben challenged himself to complete a new track – from start to finish – within two hours live on his Twitch channel. I watched a couple of them, and he is not only informative and empowering by powering through the creative process – he’s also pretty entertaining. As a result, I wanted to feature Ben’s work for all to enjoy and learn from. Hopefully this inspires more people to take on Level 1 of the Quest Log (or Level 2, if you’re already done with Level 1!).
What follows is a description of each Quest found inside Composer Quest Log – Level 1, as well as links to Ben’s creations and Twitch streams. Enjoy!
Quest #1 – The Forgotten Beats:
Write a melody that starts on beat 2 or 3. Most melodies start on the first beat of the measure, but starting on beat 2 or 3 can create a neat sense of anticipation or surprise.
Quest #2 – A Minor Challenge:
Compose a piece in a minor key. It doesn’t have to be any more complicated than writing a piece in a Major key, and you should be comfortable with both.
NOTE: Ben flipped this Quest and composed in Major, because he writes in Minor all the time. So… I guess this is a Major Challenge? 😀
Quest #3 – Compounding the Problem:
Use a Compound Meter (time signature) – like 5/4, 9/8, or 12/8. You don’t hear these very often, but they can bring a strong sense of rhythm to your writing and force you to come up with new rhythmic ideas. See for an explanation of Compound Meters.
Quest #4 – A Pirate’s Life for Me:
Compose a Piratey-sounding jig. Everyone loves a good jig.
Quest #5 – Game Over:
Create an awesome ‘Game Over’ theme that’s less than 10 seconds in length. Any longer would just be rubbing it in.
NOTE: Ben composed this challenge at the end of his Twitch stream for Quest #2 above, so the same video is embedded below.
Quest #6 – The Julie Andrews:
Use a human voice to sing the melody of at least an entire section (not necessarily an entire track). No lyrics required – ‘Oohs’ and ‘Ahs’ can be very effective!
Quest #7 – Kickin’ it Old School:
Make a chiptune track! Remember your roots and bring back some of that 8-bit flavor.
Quest #8 – Something Borrowed:
Use at least one Borrowed Chord in one of your compositions. Borrowed chords give you new and exciting options for harmonizing your melodies. See the analysis of Final Fantasy VII’s main theme at vgmacademy.com/ff7 for an explanation.
Quest #9 – If It Ain’t Got That Swing:
Write a piece that uses a swung beat. Dancing along encouraged, but not required.
Quest #10 – Something Strange & Wonderful:
Write a melody using an instrument you’ve never used before whose name you aren’t even 100% sure how to pronounce. Did you know there’s an instrument called a “Crwth?” Those 11th-century Welsh musicians really knew how to rock. Good look finding a sample library with THAT included.
Quest #11 – Music Box:
Compose a piece for a music box, which may also be called a “lamellophone,” “linguaphone,” or “thumb piano,” in sample libraries. Most multi-voice keyboards have an onboard music-box-sounding instrument.
NOTE: The wind-up sound of the music box at this piece adds a nice touch!
Quest #12 – Make it Modulate:
Change keys in the middle of a composition, using any form of modulation you’d like. If the piece is meant to loop, don’t forget that you’ll have to modulate back to the original key!
Before you go…
If you’re looking for a creative kick in the pants or some ideas to break yourself out of the comfort zone, pick up Composer Quest Log – Level 1 and Level 2. Oh, and be sure to share your progress. You never know – you might be next to get featured on VGMAcademy.com!
If you enjoyed Ben’s work, make sure to drop him a line on Twitter or head on over to his Patreon page to show some support. Also be sure to visit Ben’s website to hear his latest projects, including a concept album called Elemental – an exploration of life as it moves through the five pagan elements.
I love Ben’s work and I have been following his quest and learned a ton from him. Huge thanks to both of you! 🙂