I just finished my first post-minimalistic piece in four movements for string quartet, soprano, piano, and electronics. My first long-form composition. I am full with excitement. I submit the work to the Watchers of Contemporary Music for approval. Three anonymous reviewers’ comments come back. The first one is negative. The piece is far too long, dull, and repetitive. Rejection recommended. The second one is somewhat more positive but requests replacing the soprano with a trumpet and moving the second section to the end of the piece. The third one is neutral. It also recommends shortening and less prominent use of electronics. The premiere has been cancelled. I’m now staring at the score, puzzled, frustrated, demoralized…  Read more...