Performer Blogs@Sequenza21.com

Jay C. Batzner is currently an Assistant Professor at the University of Central Florida where he teaches theory, composition, and technology courses as well as coordinates the composition program. He holds degrees in composition and/or theory from the University of Missouri – Kansas City, the University of Louisville, and the University of Kansas.

Jay's music is primarily focused around instrumental chamber works as well as electroacoustic composition. His music has been recorded on the Capstone, Vox Novus, and Beauport Classical labels and is published by Unsafe Bull Music.

Jay is a sci-fi geek, an amateur banjoist, a home brewer, and juggler.





11/30/2006
I made her cry

Yesterday I met an artist on the faculty here who was interested in doing a collaboration (she was interested in my electronic music). So we talked and shared some of our work and tried to figure out how to collaborate/respond to each other's stuff. I played Near Burning for her and she cried. It was...amazing? Is that the right word? I don't think that I've ever had anyone respond to my music that way.

The piece is very emotional and it has definitely connected with people. Lots of the crowds who have listened to it have been other composers who pick at some of the obvious technical faults. The people who have responded the strongest to the work, though, were all non-musicians. Not sure what that means, but I think it means something.

I didn't know what to do when she cried. I have no tissues in my office or anything. I ended up thanking her for her reaction. Her response meant so much to me. It was great. I'm looking forward to working with her!