“As a symphony orchestra conductor, I have always prioritized additional creative endeavors, including new orchestral transcriptions and original compositions across various genres. My inspiration for composing often stems from significant life events that resonate with or move me—be it futuristic themes, personal milestones, or the profound tragedies of our time that impact us all.

For me, the core technical challenge lies in discovering my unique voice and style. I compose only when I feel a genuine need to express something meaningful, rejecting formulaic construction in favor of a natural flow driven by the logic of development and the spark of inspiration. Selecting thematic material is a critical and sometimes challenging aspect of the process. In today’s world, the question of how a composer can communicate with the audience in a way that is both original and accessible is more pressing than ever.Whenever possible, I incorporate my compositions into my own programs, using performances to gauge the responses of both musicians and audiences. This practical feedback helps me evaluate how effectively I have conveyed the themes I set out to explore.”

— ARKADY LEYTUSH