It’s the time of year where we are selecting - or at least exploring the possible - repertoire for our next season. The perfect time to sit down with a live composer and chat about their compositional techniques, styles, and processes. In this conversation, you’ll meet Kansas City, MO based composer, Ryan Main. You’ll learn how he got into composing, how he sketches, where he finds his words, and his passion for collaboration. During the episode, you’ll even get to hear examples of five of his compositions. Ryan’s music is singable, accessible, and you’re about to hear all the backstories behind 5 of my favorites! Here’s the list of rep we explore in this episode:* A Part of Us - Accessible and singable piece. The poem feels like an Irish farewell, but has quite a touching story behind it. * Be Who You Are - This was selected for Editor's Choice recently with text from a poem by someone very special to Ryan!* Home - Another very accessible piece with a beautiful story. * Inveniam Viam - (available after the premiere on November 7) Set up to feel almost like a slingshot, this text is epic and the setting drives - could be an opener or closer - listen to learn the life changing story behind this one. * Three Things - Unique and excellent text with a fun story about how the poem rights were secured. Find these selections and more from Ryan Main at https://www.ryanmain.com/ Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nQwulMtjpZI Want to join the “Music (ed) Matters” community at monthly meet-ups, bonus content, and summer PD events? Join the conversation on Patreon.com/MusicEdMatters. **Our show sponsor, Kinnison Choral Company wants to help you get the most out of your rehearsal time! They’ve created the tools you need to make your rehearsal space productive, fun, and inspiring! Head to EmilyBurch.org/Sponsors and click the KCC logo to grab the free calculator today! **Show music originally written by Mr. Todd Monsell**Show photography provided by Dr. Dan Biggerstaff