Journey of an Artist - not so different from any other journey

 Throughout one’s life, most had questioned certain decisions they have made so far. Regardless of being an artist or not, people are often drawn to activities that seek them the most happiness. In university, most tend to discover their true passion—and Melody Quan is no stranger to this example.  

 Q: How did you first discovered your passion for music in general?  

A: I had always been wanting to learn music since I was a kid. During my last year in economics, I had an epiphany that I really did not want to work in any sort of finance or banking institution and decided to change majors. I actually like all kinds of music, from classical to pop, traditional or contemporary. Really, I'm interested in composing and listening to any type of music. 

 

Q: How does music make you feel? What about it that is so great that you must change your three-year major?  

A: I simply felt it would be best to start as soon as possible, despite having studied economics for 3 years, I still felt it was worth it. When I started post-secondary, I simply had no real direction to go, no self-motivation. I selected a major that was deemed socially acceptable to most. I think regardless of which emotion I experience, the common thing is that I am moved by the music in some way. It's hard to explain, but when creating a piece, I feel like I'm...creating something, something that I alone am making. 

 

Q: In your own opinion, what is a good song to you?  

A: Many of my favourite songs have great orchestration—it is the selected instruments/sounds and how they play together make for an extremely enjoyable listening experience. I can tell the composers are very skill in orchestration. When listening, I can hear and appreciate how each sound is used. Not completely sure what constitutes a "good song" but to me this is one factor. 

 

Q: What would you say to your friend, or a sibling, if they want to pursue art? What warning would you give them before spending years committing to it? 

A: Personally, I have no warnings to give. It all depends on yourself. If someone wants to pursue art, I don't feel like I am in a position to disagree. Many of the artists I've met already have their own methods and ways to make a living with their art.  

Melody's latest song