Philosophy
"Laptop Composer"
I consider myself to be a "laptop composer". Everything I write is done on a computer, even the those pieces using standard notation (i.e., notes on "paper"). I sometimes use staff paper to sketch out an idea, but that's the extent of it.
To write in a more traditional style, I use Finale 2004, a music notation program where individual notes can be plucked out, one at a time. For electronic compositions and songs, I use a variety of programs, though most extensively Ableton Live 7.0, a recording/arranging program. I use a combination of free and commercial samples and VST plugins to emulate the "instruments"; the person singing is yours truly.
Music for Everyone
Because I'm not affiliated with a label or publisher, I feel that my music should be free for everyone to enjoy. All music posted on this site is free for the taking, posting, and promoting, as long as you give me credit and don't edit the music in any way. This falls under the Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.
My goal, in part, is to write modern classical music that is engaging, perhaps experimental, but never so avant-garde that it can't be at least partiall understood. The music I write is generally complex enough to be interesting, but not so experimental that it can't be followed.
Style
I am a trained singer, but play no other instruments (save a bit of piano); my music tends to be lyrical. Being an alto, I like to focus on the mid-range of the keyboard.
Doing all of this on a computer, I developed my style so that whatever I write can sound good with ANY instrumentation, even horrible MIDI instruments.
I am also very inspired by Indian and Japanese traditional music, as well as movie and video game soundtracks, lending my music a very thematic feel.
Attitude
I write moods, scenes, and images; for me, music needs to describe something in order for it to pop into my head. It tends to be rather accessable and playable, but also captivating - it holds your attention. Once the music is done, it's done - if it's only 2 minutes long, so be it. I hope to capture a moment, an idea (whatever idea you happen to believe it to be).
Thanks and Enjoy!
I hope you enjoy listening to my music on this site. If you have any questions about commissions, compositional style, or the site, please send them to me at .
Jamie Klenetsky is a composer from New Jersey. She writes for both classical and electronic instruments, calling herself a “laptop composer” (all work, even classical notation, is done on computer). Combining classical technique with modern styles, with influences from around the world, Jamie strives to compose works that strike at the heart of those listening.
On this site you can hear Jamie’s works, read about her philosophy on music, or listen to her ambitious Song-A-Week podcast, where she posts a newly composed work every week.