A Serious question

I have been arguing with my music theory teacher for months on end. He wants me to compose in a style that is similar to John Cage and other contemporary artists, with their a-tonal, totally chaotic and discordant rhythm and melody. I argue that not only do I not like that, but I would rather compose in the style of my favorite composers (i.e, Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt, Alkan etc). He says that composing in that style is a waste of time, because the world does not need another Mozart or Chopin. He says that no one will want to pay money to hear my compositions. I say that as long as there are people who listen to Liszt and Chopin, there will still be a desire to hear that style of music, and all I want to do is follow that style to keep it alive. What do you think? Would people want to hear new compositions by 21st century composers that are in the 17th-19th century style?

:? :?

 

You AND your teacher are right. You should not compose in ANYONE's style, but your own. Your music should sound like no one else's.

 

Composing music you don't like should not be done in the first place anyways.

 

Do whatever your heart wants. However, note that staying in the past never leaves you a legacy. The composers in Chopin's time who still composed in the style of Beethoven were never given attention and were forgotten immediately after their deaths.

Do what you want, and that will bring you joy.