2024 Composition Corner: Year in Review
After a year of groundwork and development, Composition Corner entered 2024 with its official launch and first year of pop-up events. Traveling to half a dozen craft fairs across Fairfield county, each show was a unique opportunity to showcase our musical-themed stationery to a diverse audience of crafters, musicians, and art enthusiasts. The joy of seeing someone connect with a lovingly designed product - such as a notebook that inspired the willingness to practice, a hand-made card for a special occasion, or a pack of notepads for a music educator - was the highlight of every event.
Beyond the sales, these in-person opportunities gave me the chance to meet some incredible people, from fellow small business owners to passionate customers eager to share their musical journey. Interestingly, by far the most prevalent musicians we encountered were cellists (though meeting a bagpiper in Trumbull was certainly a memorable highlight!) What stood out most was how nearly everyone, regardless of their chosen instrument, immediately shared a deep love for reading and writing, reaffirming Composition Corner’s mission to merge the art of music and literature.
Throughout the year, I had the privilege of engaging in meaningful conversations about what it truly means to be a musician in today’s ever-changing world. Stress and burnout remain widespread across the industry, prompting many performers to explore other art forms, not only as a source of income but also as a way to relax and recharge. Balancing performance with other creative pursuits can be challenging, but it can be equally rewarding. This year, we featured several multi-hyphenate artists - musicians who have expanded their talents to open Etsy shops, publish blogs or books, or sell their exceptional artwork through online platforms - to celebrate their boldness in uniting and redefining art forms.
However, as the year drew to a close, I faced a personal loss that forced me to step back from the business during the busy holiday season. My beloved cat, Henry, who was a constant companion in all my creative pursuits, unexpectedly passed away. Losing him was a profound heartbreak and I needed time away to grieve.
Although I miss him more than words can say, I hope Henry’s memory will become a source of inspiration. He was there during the late nights of brainstorming, the quiet moments of writing and reading, and was absolutely incessant in his attempts to get into every product photo. His spirit will always be a part of Composition Corner, and I’m determined to honor him as we move forward. In 2025, I will be launching a new line of products dedicated to Henry, to celebrate all the love, affection, and inspiration he brought into my life and as a reminder to cherish those moments.
There are also big events on the horizon, most notably the 2025 National Association for Music Education Eastern Division Conference in Hartford. This promises to be one of our largest showcases yet, and I’m thrilled to unveil new designs and connect with even more musicians in-person.
To everyone who supported Composition Corner in 2024 - whether by purchasing our products, sharing kind words, or simply following us online - thank you. Your support means everything, and I look forward to growing and creating even more with you this year.
“The arts are not a way to make a living. They are a very human way of making life more bearable.” - Kurt Vonnegut
