Music In Progress

By Michael Cooke

Uncovering the depths of the creative processes of composing music. Gain valuable insights with practical tips and techniques. Whether you’re a fellow musician, an enthusiast, or just curious about t... more

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FAQs about Music In Progress:

How many episodes does Music In Progress have?

The podcast currently has 35 episodes available.

Music In Progress episodes:

November 07, 2025 Post-Concert Reflections
Post-Concert Reflections
After a thrilling premiere filled with last-minute drama (including an injured oboist!), I swapped the concert hall for a paint-splattered ladder. Now, post-symphony and post-vacation, I’m recharged, reflective, and ready to dive into new musical adventures once again.
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4min
October 10, 2025 The Work After “The Work”
The Work After “The Work”
Finishing the symphony didn’t mean the work was done. From printing scores and preparing parts to writing for the American Beethoven Society and adjusting tempos after feedback, every step reminded me that composition thrives through collaboration, community, and constant refinement.
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6min
September 02, 2025 Finishing Touches on the Finale
Finishing Touches on the Finale
I spent August refining the finale of my Fourth Symphony—revising problem spots, reworking the beginning and ending, and polishing details. With feedback from mentors and renewed confidence, the piece is nearly performance-ready, and even the American Beethoven Society will help promote it.
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6min
August 05, 2025 Full Circle: Writing the Ending of the Fourth Symphony
A family tragedy delayed my progress, but in quiet moments I found the symphony’s ending. Weaving past themes into the finale, I aimed for both energy and closure—bringing the Fourth Symphony’s journey full circle.
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4min
July 21, 2025 The Calm Before the Coda
The Calm Before the Coda
After a refreshing break, I’m back at work on the Fourth Symphony’s finale—moving into slower variations, layered chorales, and rhythmic twists. With only 24 measures left, the first draft is nearly complete. The finale is just ahead!
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6min
July 07, 2025 Second Fugue, First Signs of Burnout: The Halfway Report
Second Fugue
A dense fugue, a rhythmic twist, and a well-earned milestone—this week’s progress on my Fourth Symphony hits the halfway mark. With burnout looming, I’m pausing to recharge before tackling the final variations and driving toward a complete first draft.
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5min
June 17, 2025 Marching Forward
March variation, a tipsy waltz, and leading to an inverted fugue—this week’s work on my Fourth Symphony brought unexpected turns and forward motion. With inspiration from Beethoven and Hindemith, I’m hitting my stride again, right on schedule.
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5min
June 09, 2025 Composing After Chaos: Symphony No. 4 Got Its Groove Back
Composing After Chaos: Symphony No. 4 Got Its Groove Back
Beethoven meets Hindemith in the latest progress on my Symphony No. 4. This post explores fugues, rhythm, and how detailed planning—and the right tools—helped me jump back into composing after a long break. Momentum is building again!
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7min
May 22, 2025 How Things Get Off Track — and the Importance of Notes
How Things Get Off Track — and the Importance of Notes
After a month-long break caused by unexpected life events, I’m returning to my symphony project. Thanks to detailed notes and a clear plan, I’m able to jump back in smoothly—highlighting why keeping documentation is crucial for creative continuity.
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5min
April 25, 2025 Best Laid Plans of Mice and Composers…
Best Laid Plans of Mice and Composers…
A last-minute scramble to replace two missing compositions on an SFCCO concert turned my schedule plans upside down. I revived "Triangles", a guided improvisation piece from a decade ago, refining instructions and parts to fit our current ensemble—reminding me how quickly plans can change.
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5min

FAQs about Music In Progress:

How many episodes does Music In Progress have?

The podcast currently has 35 episodes available.