The Composer's Brain Course Community
The Composer's Brain offers a groundbreaking approach to helping composers—whether beginning or seasoned—develop their ability to create concert music in their own unique aesthetic. By "concert music," we mean orchestral, chamber, solo, and electroacoustic works that are crafted for the concert stage, rather than as soundtracks for film.
Dr. Haddad developed The Composer's Brain after thousands of hours teaching composition privately and in a university setting. Explore our testimonials, watch course excerpts, and get started for free below. 
What is The Composer's Brain?
The Composer's Brain consists of 3 pedagogical pillars that work in harmony to help you grow as a composer:
12 Live Office Hours every month with our community (i.e., synchronous learning)
  • Live Q&A on any composition-related topic. 
  • Live Feedback on your works-in-progress.
  • Live Score Analysis on works you would like to study.
  • Guests from the classical music industry (i.e., professional musicians, composers, conductors, and arts administrators).
9 Hours of Professionally Recorded Lectures that are continuously updated (i.e., asynchronous learning)
  • Topics include developing ideas, overcoming writer's block, the essential tools, receiving and giving feedback, and using score study as part of your composing workflow. ​
1 Community of serious, like-minded composers from all over the world
  • Share your works-in-progress.
  • Exchange resources. 
  • Support each other.
FAQ:
Q: I’m already an experienced composer with a degree (or two) in music. Why should I join this program?
A: Even with your experience, this program offers something you can’t get from a piece of paper—an active community of composers who are genuinely interested in what you're creating. Whether you’re composing orchestral pieces, solo works, or anything else in between, this is a space where feedback and support are central to your growth. With over 50% of our members holding degrees in music, you'll be among peers who understand your journey but are always pushing each other forward. No matter your expertise, growth comes from surrounding yourself with passionate, like-minded creators.
Q: I’m just starting as a composer. Is this program right for me?
A: Absolutely! For beginners, the key to improvement is practice, and that’s exactly what we encourage. We offer dedicated feedback sessions during our 12 monthly "office hour" meetings where you can present your work and get immediate, constructive feedback. Imagine the time you’ll save by getting direction from the get-go, rather than wondering if you're on the right path.
Q: I’m a media composer. Does this program fit my needs?
A: While there are many excellent programs that specialize in composing for film, TV, and video games, our program focuses on expanding your artistic voice as a composer. It’s not about writing to picture, but about nurturing your craft, deepening your ideas, and exploring your potential as a composer.
Q: What if my style doesn’t fit with the other composers? Are certain aesthetics preferred?
A: We celebrate diversity in aesthetics! From Baroque and Classical to Neo-romantic, Avant-garde, and beyond, every composer’s viewpoint is embraced here. Dr. Haddad believes in learning from each other’s differences rather than imposing a single compositional style. The richness of this community lies in the variety of voices, and that’s what drives real artistic growth.
Q: How can I get personal attention for my compositions in a group setting?
A: Surprisingly, you’ll likely get more attention here than in most traditional class settings. While we have nearly 50 active members, only about 10 attend each live office hour session due to everyone’s varying schedules. This ensures you’ll get focused feedback, often more than you would in a typical college setting with 20+ students per class.
Q: What happens as the community grows? Will I still get the same level of support?
A: Growth is a sign of success, and we’re prepared for it! As the community expands, we’ll open additional office hours with Dr. Haddad and other world-class composition instructors, all chosen democratically by the community. This way, we ensure that the intimate, supportive environment we have now continues, even as we grow.
Q: I can’t always attend live office hours. Will I miss out?
A: Not at all! Every office hour session is recorded and available immediately after it ends. Plus, Dr. Haddad provides a 10-minute summary of each session, so if you’re short on time, you can still catch the highlights without watching the full office hour.
Q: What makes Dr. Haddad qualified to lead this community?
A: With over 7 years of teaching experience and a successful career composing for top-tier ensembles like the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Dr. Haddad brings real-world expertise to the table. As a faculty member at Columbia University and a holder of degrees from Columbia, The Juilliard School, and USC, he’s uniquely equipped to help you unlock your full potential as a composer.
An excerpt of feedback during a live office hour.
An excerpt of score analysis during a live office hour.
The first 2 hours from the 9 hour Composition Masterclass.