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Interview with Katia Tiutiunnik
February 15, 2011
Katia Tiutiunnik is a composer. For information about her work, visit www.australianmusiccentre.com.au/artist/tiutiunnik-katia or en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Katia_Tiutiunnik.
Tibbetts: How long have you composed, and what made you decide to become a composer?
Tiutiunnik: I have composed for over 23 years. I became a composer because I had to. Choice did not enter the picture--rather, it was a process of self discovery that led me to my vocation. I had an epiphany after which I could not imagine life without creating new musical works. It was then discovered that I actually had a gift for composition.
Tibbetts: What inspires you?
Tiutiunnik: Ancient civilizations (especially Rome and Mesopotamia) inspire me, as does literature pertaining to alien civilizations, both on this planet and others. I am especially inspired by ideas relating to the intervention of aliens on earth, thousands of years ago, when the mythical Golden Age was apparently established. I am also inspired by Islamic mysticism and related streams; various traditions of numerology; current and historical events pertaining to the Near East; ancient mythologies; Christian mysticism; the paranormal; ceremonial magical traditions and their symbols; symbolism in a wider sense; nature and, of course, events from my own personal life. I am especially inspired by my two sons, who make my vocation worthwhile and who give me the strength to continue. Naturally, it goes without saying that music itself is my greatest inspiration.
Tibbetts: Of all you have done, what do you consider your best work, and why?
Tiutiunnik: This is a difficult question. However, I would have to say that my extended symphonic poem for cello and orchestra, Mikhail (which, at the time of writing, has not yet been premiered) is the work I am most proud of. I was a true adventurer when I composed Mikhail, transcending all of my previous boundaries and entering a new realm of consciousness--both sonic and magical-- in the process.
Tibbetts: What is your 'typical day' like?
Tiutiunnik: I am currently still on maternity leave at the time of writing, as I have chosen to devote myself to my youngest son until he turns 3. Hence, most of my writing occurs in the evening.
When I am composing full time I work at my desk, with a pen and manuscript (according to the ancient tradition that was transmitted to me by my great teacher, Franco Donatoni), in hourly blocks, for about 7 hours a day, breaking only for meals and exercise. Donatoni taught me to regard composition as a day job and continually stated that one should not wait for inspiration, since, according to this great master, inspiration would come when one sat down at one's desk and began to write!
Tibbetts: Do you have any words of wisdom to offer to aspiring composers and musicians?
Tiutiunnik: Do not wait for inspiration! Sit at your desk, write and whatever inspiration is meant to come forth will come forth! Furthermore, study as many great scores as you can, listen to great music, attend quality new music concerts and treat composition as a job! Franco Donatoni would often state that he "ate, drank, slept, breathed and composed" and that while he often didn't enjoy composing, it was as necessary as breathing to him...Finally, network with gifted, successful performers who are open to playing your music.
You can listen to quite a few of my recordings on the following site: reverbnation.com/katiatiutiunnikcomposer
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