FEATURE
Exclusive Logan J Blackman Interview with Muzique Magazine
When did you discover your love for your craft and what made you realize you wanted to pursue a career in it?
I was around 11 years old when I found music. It’s kind of odd, I fell in love with the organ first of all things. The famous organ scene from Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest captivated me, and I became instantly hooked on all things organ related.
That later moved into an interest in composition, then bassoon, then inevitably I started conducting at around 14. I don’t really remember when I fully decided, it just kind of came naturally. Once I found this was something I was good at, it was just obvious; I am an artist, and I live to make music.
To what or whom do you accredit your sense of style?
Over the years I’ve been fortunate to acquire many hats as a musician; Bassoonist, Organist, Pianist, Conductor, and composer are my main titles. And with all of that has come MANY different teachers, mentors, and idols…so it’s hard to say. at the heart of it all though, as a composer, I have to give the most credit to my late mentor and teacher Dr. Joseph Baber.
I studied with him in college, and he definitely influenced how I view music as a whole the most. The man was a genius, and was in his 80s when I studied with him—so he had a plethora of amazing stories.
Logan J Blackman Interview with Muzique Magazine
On your current project, how did you come up with the concept?
Currently, I’m working on compiling some piano repertoire in preparation for releasing an album. I haven’t decided what will be included, but the purpose of the project is very personal. I’ve recently found a newly ignited passion for the piano after stepping away from it for a few years. These past few years, as we all can probably agree, have truly been rough. That’s really led me to practice more mindfulness to find inner peace.
The piano has been a herald to that practice for me. Playing or listening to Music is a perfect way to be in the moment and just experience the present because if you think about it music can only exist at the moment. As I record these works, my practice will be to perform how the moment leads me. So the album will really be a celebration of finding that peace.
What are some of your greatest challenges, and what is your greatest attribute when it comes to your work ethic?
There honestly are too many to count, but in many ways, I’m thankful to have been able to learn from them. My biggest tragedy happened 11 years ago when my parents were killed in a motorcycle accident. I was 15 at the time. I was lucky to have two wonderfully supportive parents who taught me a lot of great things, so I was able to handle it as well as I possibly could.
Logan J Blackman Interview with Muzique Magazine
I remember After that incident, I wrote a large symphonic work in their memory called “Prayer of a Broken Heart.” It’s about my personal tragedy and triumph, and my ultimate hope to one day see them again. It’s definitely been hard, and it never gets easier, but the memories and values live on which makes it beautiful. In my opinion at least.
Aside from that, Covid really put a damper on things. Needless to say, it’s been a rough few years. But I feel the winds changing. Regarding my work ethic though, I think my strength is the ability to adapt and learn. I’ve had a lot of struggles and made plenty of mistakes, but I take pride in the fact that I’ve learned. After all, a wise Jedi once said “The greatest teacher failure is.”
Are you the best at what you do in your opinion?
I don’t consider myself the best, but I know for a FACT I do my best. I think I’d be bored if I was the best; that’d imply I wouldn’t have anything else to learn. I can’t think of anything more boring than not learning more about what I love to be honest.
What are your plans for the near future?
As I mentioned I’m working on recording some piano works for an album. Aside from that, I do plan on writing some new chamber and symphonic work soon!
Is there anyone you’d like to thank, any shout-outs?
This sounds cheesy, and no this doesn’t involve chuck berry, but someone I know as my Earth Angel. She knows who she is. Without her, I wouldn’t have found this new fire and hope.
How can fans find you?
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Soundcloud
What suggestions do you have for other artists like yourself?
If you’re ever lost, in a dark spot, focus and cling to what you’ve learned. You can find utility in that and you’ll find your way.
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