Today we’d like to introduce you to Jocelyn Hagen.
Hi Jocelyn, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I am a composer, performer, creative director, and collaborative artist.
For me I know there is nothing more satisfying than creating a piece of music from scratch, witnessing its development and maturity, treating it with the utmost care, and massaging the ideas until they come to fruition. I’m also always searching for innovation and new ways to tell a story. I love working with the latest technology and figuring out how to incorporate it into my work in a seamless and effective way.
I started improvising at the piano pretty early on, then graduated to songwriting when I was 14 years old. During my senior year of high school, I composed my first piece of choral music, and I was immediately hooked!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Pursuing my dream to be an artist has definitely had its challenges. There have been quite a few sacrifices, but they have been worth it. As a family, we had to learn how to live pretty lean and rely on friends and family for additional support. But I knew I would be incredibly unhappy if I didn’t pursue this musical life.
The creative process is often partnered with failure, and the tenaciousness required to see those ideas come to fruition takes considerable grit. It can also often be scary, but I’ve learned to trust this feeling as a sign that I’m onto something big.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I create music that is meaningful to me and the issues I hold dear. I compose empowering music for women to sing, and I don’t shy away from tough subjects. I love exploring new technologies and pushing myself beyond the realms of traditional composition. In my travels, I have connected with many musicians who have created wonderful performances, and I work hard to inspire young musicians to further pursue their dreams in whatever creative endeavor they are passionate about.
It is so important for us all to not only live our truth but add our voices to the conversation, even if we are unsure which path to follow. I believe I compose music that helps performers and audiences realize who they are and what they hold dear.
Networking and finding a mentor can have a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I had to learn how to be brave in different ways. My art can’t reach an audience without channeling it through other musicians. I love that about my work. But it means I need to connect with lots and lots of musicians to help bring my music into the world and help it live.
When I was young I went to a lot of performances so I could hear the music that was being performed, and I would talk to the musicians and the composers afterward. I offered up my services as a composer to talented conductors and musicians I admired. I also did a lot of networking at conferences and worked hard to sell my music.
Now I have built up a loyal following and a strong group of supporters. I send out email newsletters once a month and remain active on social media.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jocelynhagen.com
- Instagram: @JocelynHagenMus
- Facebook: JocelynHagenMus
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jocelyn-hagen-83b39014a/
- Youtube: JocelynHagenComposer
- SoundCloud: Jocelyn-Hagen
Image Credits
Jen Cress
