Dianna Neufeld

composer and collaborative pianist

Canada

Author

About

Dianna Neufeld has a Master’s in Music from the Brandon University, specializing in Performance and Literature as a Collaborative Pianist. As a private piano teacher and collaborative artist, she performs with a variety of musicians, and is a composer who is published within Canada and Europe. Dianna has enjoyed exploring musical creativity from an early age. She is published within the Northern Lights CNCM Piano Repertoire books, a graded educational series in Canada that features primarily Canadian composers. She additionally writes duets, solos and chamber works for students of all levels around the globe. A highlight is working with musicians of all ages at summer music camps within Canada and Europe, encouraging student creativity, composition and collaboration.

As the President of the Manitoba Registered Music Teachers Association of the Brandon and Westman Branch, Dianna works together with local private teachers to encourage and support the future of the musical community, supporting events which feature Canadian Music and Canadian musicians. This interest has naturally moved her into the position as administrator for The Eckhardt-Gramatté National Music Competition, which is for the performance of Canadian and contemporary music, a memorial to composer, pianist, and violinist S.C. (Sophie) Eckhardt-Gramatté. She feels incredibly fortunate to enjoy all aspects of her musical life and work.

Sheets

Interview

What does music mean to you personally?

Music is career, my passion, a social life, and privilege that I am able to do professionally.

Do you agree that music is all about fantasy?

Music does engage our creative mind and soul, and when performing it can very well transform us to places or give emotions. But there is also the practical side of brain development in all students and professional positions that create jobs.

If you were not a professional musician, what would you have been?

It’s hard to imagine – i also enjoy teaching, but mostly it’s because I enjoy music so much that it’s wonderful to share and educate.

The classical music audience is getting old, are you worried about the future?

No – I’m surrounded by young musicians who are interested in sharing their passions of music. 21st century classical music is changing and there is a lot of interest in what can be created and shared!

What do you envision the role of music to be in the 21st century? Do you see that there is a transformation of this role?

Electronics are becoming more of an interest and we are seeing more composers combining it with traditional instruments – it’s fun to see what composers are bringing into the musical scene.

Do you think that the musician today needs to be more creative? What is the role of creativity in the musical process for you?

I think composers have a wider path to create in – many more ideas to reflect on, including the recreation of traditional ideas.

Do you think we as musicians can do something to attract the younger generation to music concerts? How would you do this?

I think in order to attract more people it starts with the very young – encourage listening in our teaching studios, classrooms, and encouraging invitations to concerts. Be an example/guide. Invite families to concerts. Musicians are moving towards house concerts and smaller venues to be inclusive of all income families.

Tell us about your creative process. What is your favorite piece (written by you) and how did you start working on it?

I have enjoyed every piece that I’ve created! I’m a curious composer and enjoy writing for many types of instruments and chamber groups. Some are encouraged by the environment I’m in, such as for students or groups I am playing in.

Can you give some advice for young people who want to discover classical music for themselves?

Explore what sounds you enjoy! Do you like music which is more organized, or melodic? Are you curious about music which recreates different sounds or colors? There are many genre’s, explore them all. Attend concerts in your community!

Do you think about the audience when composing?

Always.

What projects are coming up? Do you experiment in your projects?

I am working on a 4 piano piece for a concert coming up! This is a new one for me, and I’m excited for the possibilities.