‘Mortenissimo’ (Morten Vamplew), pianist & composer

Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in music?

My piano studies at home and music courses at college and university were all pivotal in inspiring me to pursue a career in music. Through these experiences, I not only learned a diverse repertoire for solo performance but also had numerous opportunities to collaborate with other musicians. Additionally, I expanded on my knowledge of music history and culture.

Being exposed to a wide range of genres played a big part in driving my passion to compose my own works.

Who or what have been the most significant influences on your musical life and career?

The most significant influences on my musical life and career stem from both the music I have listened to over the years and my educational experiences.

Musically, I have been heavily inspired by artist and songwriter Adam Young, classical composers Debussy and Liszt, and ambient soundscape composer Jonn Serrie.

My family, friends and the people I collaborated with during my music studies have helped shape my mindset and approach to writing and listening to music. The ensembles I participated in at university inspired me to be more experimental and innovative in my musical thinking and compositional methods.

Nine years ago, I heard ‘Clair de Lune’ for the first time, and learnt the piece specifically for a wedding ceremony. This was the key moment where I started to love Debussy’s music, and learn more of his pieces from the same era. These days, as I work on my project, ‘Debussy [Extended]’, my appreciation for the French composer’s style has grown, thanks to a further analytical understanding of his harmonies, melodies and techniques.

What have been the greatest challenges of your career so far?

I have used Logic Pro X for all of my composing and mixing thus far, and over the years, I have stumbled upon numerous challenges at various points of the music making process. These include technical absurdities with the sound during the mixing process, attempting to achieve the right level of loudness for streaming purposes, and trying to come up with a melody that’s most effective for a certain musical passage.

With time, I have adapted to deal with these hurdles better, via continuous experience of working with Logic Pro X, and further exploration of the compositional workflow and timeline that works best for me.

On some works, I can start recording on my MIDI keyboard straight away, coming up with ideas as I go and letting the pieces fall into place spontaneously. On other works, I have to do more pre-planning before I record anything.

Of which performances/recordings are you most proud?

I’m very happy with my debut ‘Debussy [Extended]’ performance at Brittens Music Shop in Tunbridge Wells. It was an honour to showcase my project to the public for the first time. I received some wonderful comments after the performance, which boosted my confidence in this project and its development from then on.

I fondly remember my piano recitals at City University. My second year performance sticks out the most in my mind, as I had the chance to write and perform original pieces. This made a refreshing and interesting change of pace.

What do you do offstage that provides inspiration on stage?

My life philosophies greatly influence my music composition and performances.

I believe in savouring the present, and appreciating the small moments that act as puzzle pieces forming a bigger picture.

I love to go on nature walks, isolating myself in my own thoughts. This notably goes hand in hand with my creative and imaginative mindset, which I apply to both my music creation and life in general.

Genuine connections with people and the wonders of the world around me are very important to me, and I prioritise these in my personal and professional life.

As a musician, what is your definition of success?

To me, success as a musician is about creating music that deeply resonates with both myself and my listeners, captivates their ears, and touches their hearts and minds.

My ongoing goal to create music that allows me to psychologically step into another dimension, whether I’m brainstorming ideas, playing, recording, or listening to the final product.

As a spiritual person, I love music that can transport me to a dreamlike realm, where I can create my own imagery surrounding the music, and reflect on how it impacts my inner thoughts and emotions.

What advice would you give to young or aspiring musicians?

My advice is to work on projects that resonates with you personally. If you are not truly passionate about your endeavours, it likely won’t hold long-term value. Caring deeply about your work is essential.

Don’t hesitate to compose in a unique style that represents you as an artist and/or performer. Individuality in music is important.

Additionally, give yourself the time to develop your project without rushing. Avoid taking on too much at once, as you don’t want to get burnt out during the process. Taking things one step at a time is wonderful, as it gives you the chance to appreciate and enjoy every step along the way.

What’s the one thing we’re not talking about in the music industry which you really feel we should be?

I feel that more attention should be given to the mental health of emerging artists, as the struggles present in the early stages of their careers can be overlooked.

Financial instability and the pressure to succeed can lead to mental health challenges that are not widely recognised or addressed. An increase in support networks would be a huge benefit, in my opinion.

Mortenissimo’s Clair de Lune [extended], an innovative reimagining of the famous third segment in Suite Bergamasque by Claude Debussy, is available now, released in advance of his debut album Debussy [extended]

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