60 Minutes to a Customized Plan for Your Composition Career

A private strategy session where we review your portfolio and build an actionable plan for colleges, commissions, and outreach.

Learn More

Here's the thing.

You already know how to write music. That's not the problem.

The problem is you're not sure what to do with it. Maybe you're sitting on a portfolio but you don't know if it's presenting you the right way. Maybe you want to start reaching out to ensembles and organizations for commissions but you have no idea how to approach them. Maybe you're looking at college programs and you're overwhelmed by the options.

You don't need another YouTube video or online course. You need someone who's been through it, who's actively doing this work, to sit down with you for an hour and help you figure out your next move.

Application deadlines don't wait. Commission opportunities don't wait. The longer you sit on a portfolio you're not sure about, the more opportunities pass you by.

What We'll Cover in 60 Minutes

Portfolio Assessment

I'll look at your body of work and tell you honestly how it's positioning you. What's strong, what's missing, what you should prioritize.

School & Program Strategy

If you're applying to undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral programs, I'll help you figure out which schools make sense for you and how to put your best foot forward.

Outreach & Commission Strategy

We'll map out how to approach ensembles, orchestras, organizations, and performers. What to send, how to reach out, how to build those relationships over time.

A Real Plan

You'll leave with specific next steps. Not vague advice, but actual things you can go do.

One thing to be clear about: this isn't a composition lesson. I'm not going to teach you theory or orchestration. This is a strategy session for composers who already have the craft and need help with the career side.

This Is For You If...

You're an intermediate or advanced composer who already has the skills and just needs direction
You're preparing applications for composition programs and want help choosing the right schools and positioning your portfolio
You want to land commissions and performances but aren't sure how to approach the right people
You've been doing this on your own and you need a second set of experienced eyes on where you're headed
You want a one-time conversation, not a long-term commitment

This isn't for you if you're looking for beginner composition lessons, theory instruction, or ongoing mentorship. If that's what you need, check out the mentorship program instead.

Saad Haddad on stage with the Los Angeles Philharmonic

A Bit About Me

I'm a composer. My works have been performed by orchestras like the Los Angeles Philharmonic and at venues like Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center in New York. I've spent years mentoring composers at every stage, from students applying to their first college program to working professionals chasing commissions. My students have been accepted into top conservatories, won competitions, and landed commissions of their own.

I'm going to be honest with you. That's what you're paying for. Not encouragement for the sake of it. Real, specific, actionable advice from someone who does this every day.

What Composers Are Saying

Testimonial: Symphony orchestra commission

"I've only had one lesson so far with Saad, but even with just one lesson, I feel more legitimate as a composer and my mindset is healthier. A good teacher can accelerate us into a space of confidence that enables greater joy in learning."

Melissa Orr

"In just one lesson, he broadened my perspective on the possibilities of instrumentation. After just one lesson with Saad, I became much more confident about my application, and was able to achieve great results."

Christina Qu

"Saad is honest in his feedback, making him a great 'new pair of eyes' for whatever you need looked at. He is also great for asking about 'real life' composition things, not just looking over your compositions."

Bradley Fletcher

"I had 3 sessions with Dr Haddad but received a wealth of information I have been using up to now to take my craft to the next level. Having tried other online composition teachers, you stand out above them all."

Tinashe Jera

Frequently Asked Questions

How does it work?

You book and pay, then you'll get a link to schedule a time on my calendar. We meet over Zoom for 60 minutes.

What should I bring?

Your portfolio, any scores or recordings you want me to look at, and a list of questions. The more prepared you come, the more ground we cover.

Is this the same as the mentorship program?

No. The mentorship is ongoing with regular sessions. This is a single conversation. One session, no commitment beyond that.

What if I want to keep working with you after?

If it makes sense and we're a good fit, we can talk about that. But there's zero pressure.

You know your music.
Let's figure out your plan.

Every month you spend without a clear strategy is a month of missed applications, missed submissions, and missed connections.

Book Your Consult