Imagine a world without music: video games stripped of their immersive scores, films silenced, sports arenas devoid of their roaring anthems, parades marching in a hollow silence. Music, the very soul of these experiences, amplifies our emotions, transforming mere events into unforgettable moments. And behind each sound is someone who not only dreamt up the notes, but carefully applied fundamental music theory, precise instrumentation knowledge, practical experience with musicians and more to craft the piece. 

At Texas Wesleyan University, music education majors Justin Talamantez and Joe Weidman are not just imagining those sounds; they're creating them. Composing original music for the university's burgeoning marching band and their own diverse projects, they're extending their musical experience far beyond the realm of performance. 

Two years ago, Weidman's path shifted after witnessing a band director compose marching music. “He really inspired me to start writing. I saw what it did for his life, and I wanted to experience that. It’s a get away from just playing my saxophone and allows me to try something new,” Weidman said. This spark ignited a passion for creation. 

Talamantez, meanwhile, began his compositional journey with arrangements in 2011. Arrangements, the art of adapting existing musical works, honed his skills. Now, he's ventured into original compositions, resulting in an impressive ten world premieres this year. “I’m hoping it builds some momentum that I can carry forward and build a career off of,” Talamantez said. “I really love writing music and teaching music – I love music in general – so if I can do something for my career that I enjoy, then I’ll be happy.” 

Both musicians find the art of composing a challenging yet exhilarating process. They must transcend the limitations of their own instruments, envisioning the interplay of diverse timbres and harmonies. The creative process is a constant dialogue with their inner ear, a series of “What if I did it this way instead,” or “What instrument would take this part,” moments. “I can listen to heavy metal and come up with a pretty flute piece,” Talamantez laughed. “If you know how to develop and continue to write, it becomes autonomous.” 

The culmination of their efforts — the transition from abstract idea to tangible performance — is the heart of their artistic pursuit. “If you ever get to play your own piece, it’s so cool being a part of being that first time it's played by a band or orchestra, or whatever you wrote for. It’s a good heartfelt moment,” Weidman said. 

Dr. Thomas Willmann, spearheading the growth of the Ram Band and drumline into a full-fledged marching band, actively encourages his students to explore composition and arrangement. The small community environment at Texas Wesleyan allows faculty to provide personalized guidance, pushing students beyond their comfort zones. This extends to cross-genre exploration, with vocalists taking up instruments for Mariachi Oro Azul, just to name an example. 

“The faculty here are so kind and want to see you succeed,” Talamantez said. “They go out of their way to make our ideas happen. It’s a special thing and Texas Wesleyan truly is a special place.” 

Weidman’s experience with his composition “Coco” exemplifies this support. He presented the initial idea to Dr. Willmann, who helped refine it into a staple of the band’s repertoire. “It was a really good feeling,” he said. 

For Weidman, “Coco” remains a favorite. Talamantez, meanwhile, is particularly proud of his double concerto, “Fire Dances,” a fusion of diverse musical ideas. They both demonstrate the power of musical passion, and the nurturing environment that allows that passion to flourish. 

Talamantez and Weidman's original compositions are cementing their legacy at Texas Wesleyan. Their music, crafted for the Ram Band, will be performed for years to come, embedding their creative spirit into the university's sound and shaping its future musical traditions. This tangible body of work, a testament to their talent and dedication, also serves as a powerful springboard for their future careers, demonstrating their ability to create impactful and enduring music and inspiring others in the department to follow their lead.