Composing with Paper and Pencil

Believe it or not, I think that one of the best ways to compose is with paper and pencil. Away from a computer, away from a piano, away from any distractions. Just me, a sheet of staff paper, a good pencil, and my imagination.I used to hear about John Williams writing cues on airplanes and it blew my mind. How could he possibly compose without an instrument in front of him? But when you actually just try it, you find out that it's not only easier than it sounds, it has amazing benefits.

• Being away from the piano prevents you from noodling around, playing the same old songs and cliches you usually play, and forces you to get out of a rut.
• You become more focused on lines and forward momentum, rather than chords and the vertical dimension.
• You improve your ear training skills and make composing more about what's in your head, as opposed to what you're able to play with your fingers.

While researching this topic I found a fantastic post from Eric Whitacre. He hits on some of the same points I have, and goes into much further detail. It's worth a read.I'll admit that I still need a piano for figuring out harmonies and interesting chord progressions. But for melodies, themes, and lines I've found that writing the old-school way is surprisingly beneficial.