We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Michael Rainwater. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Michael below.
Hi Michael, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
Finding one’s purpose is a journey of self-discovery, exploration, and connection to one’s passions. For me, this journey began in preschool when my innate engagement with music and rhythm was first noticed. Despite my initial resistance to classical piano training, I began to see the piano as more than just an instrument. It became a medium of expression, a way to communicate my personal dynamics.
The turning point came during an impromptu performance at Fry’s Electronics during Christmas. A talent agent happened to walk past and saw something unique in my performance. He saw a potential that I hadn’t considered before – the potential to pursue music professionally. This encounter opened my eyes to new possibilities and set me on a path to becoming a professional pianist and arranger. Over time, my purpose has evolved and expanded. I transitioned from focusing solely on classical music to exploring the intersection of classical and contemporary music. This fusion became the core of my musical identity and purpose. With the expansion of my online presence, I’ve been able to share my unique arrangements with a global audience. The positive feedback and encouragement I’ve received have further reinforced my purpose and vision. Balancing my creative interests with the demands and expectations of the audience has been a challenge. However, I’ve found that audiences often don’t know what they want until they hear it. My unconventional approach to arranging has been a pleasant surprise for many listeners, helping to bridge the gap between my personal mission and the public’s expectations. I have now been arranging for over 8 years now, with my first arrangements taking place in my piano teacher’s studio (as pictured). These arrangements focused on the piano and casting it in a new light. The earliest arrangements, like In The Mood, were highly admired by audiences, and evolved to the arrangements that I work on today.
Looking ahead, I see my purpose continuing to evolve. I envision my arrangements being performed in front of large audiences, both as piano solos and full orchestral pieces. This vision fuels my passion and commitment to my craft, pushing me to continually explore new musical landscapes and redefine what is possible with the piano.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
As a pianist and arranger, my roles are deeply intertwined, allowing me to build my technical skills while exploring creative endeavors. Each day, I focus on honing my technique and perfecting the art of piano playing. Simultaneously, I delve into the logical side of the piano, expanding upon it through my work as an arranger.
What sets my work apart is its authenticity. I strive to create “real music,” which I define as music that tells a story, serves a purpose, and is produced in a style that reflects my personal touch. In my piano solos, I incorporate orchestral elements to create a richer, more authentic sound. Similarly, in my orchestral arrangements, I aim to capture the full richness of the orchestra, staying true to my mission of creating “real music.” My brand embodies the philosophy of “timeless over trend.” I am committed to creating timeless works of art that transcend trends and stand the test of time. I believe that much of the music released in recent years lacks this timeless quality, which is why I strive to incorporate it into both my solo and produced works.
Currently, I am working on a special project of arrangements, several of which will be part of a series. These arrangements push the boundaries of what piano solos and arrangements can sound like, and explore the range of emotions that music can evoke. I am excited about the future and look forward to sharing my unique arrangements with a global audience.
The first arrangement in this exciting series, set for release in the coming weeks, is a lively and spirited rendition of ‘Video Killed The Radio Star.’ Serving as the crown jewel of the set, this piece is infused with classical motifs and a writing style reminiscent of romantic and contemporary composers such as Chopin and Gershwin. By weaving these classical elements into an iconic 80’s hit, this arrangement showcases the timeless art of classical music in a fresh and modern context, breathing new life into a beloved classic.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my musical journey, the three qualities that have been most impactful are passion, focus, and life. My deep love for music has fueled my drive, allowing me to immerse myself fully in my craft. Focus has been essential, enabling me to hone my skills and create authentic music that resonates with listeners. By life, I mean the ability to infuse each piece with a soul, making it come alive. This quality is what makes music more than just notes and rhythms. For those early in their journey, I recommend finding what truly resonates with you and letting that passion guide you. Focus on your goals, dedicating time and effort to achieve them. Start with a strong foundation, like classical music, and then explore and find the genre that speaks to you. Let your music live and breathe, and never lose sight of what drives you. These principles have not only shaped my journey but can guide anyone looking to make their mark in the world of music.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
Certainly! I am indeed open to collaboration with individuals who resonate with my mission of creating authentic, timeless music that lives and breathes. My work is deeply rooted in classical motifs, and I strive to infuse contemporary pieces with the richness and authenticity of orchestral elements. If you share this passion for blending classical and contemporary styles and believe in the philosophy of “timeless over trend,” I would be thrilled to explore collaboration opportunities. Whether you’re an artist, composer, or producer, and you feel a connection to my style and vision, please feel free to reach out through my official channels. Together, we can create music that transcends the ordinary and stands as a testament to the enduring power of creativity and expression.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.michaelrainwatermusic.com
- Instagram: @itsmichaelrainwater
- Twitter: @mrainwatermusic
- Youtube: YouTube.com/MichaelRainwater
Image Credits
Just A Fan Photography
