Need YOUR help

Γεια σας! Τι κάνετε;

Anyway, I'm new to musical composition and I would like to improve my ability. I know some basic music thoery, planning on taking some classes on theory in my local community college (free).

However, I don't know much in regards to anything else relating to composing, mind you I can read and play music. Are there any must read lessons on sites or books that will improve my understanding? If so, please share! Ευχαριστώ!

I would say that the best way to better your understanding of composition at this point is to just write, write, write. While reading up on the subject is a great way to learn about it, there's nothing better than just doing. You're not trying to create masterpieces at this point, just write. Don't plan to strive for something on the scope of Mahler just yet, but do just start writing small things so that you can start to understand how to really put together your musical thoughts (and hopefully build up a repetoire to show to a teacher at some point.)

As for things to read, I personally love reading interviews with other composers, even if they aren't in your "style" because a point of view that they have might influence you to think a little differently about your work. There also many jewels of music news and interviews at NewMusicBox:

NewMusicBox

The other "reading" material that I suggest for you is any score that you can get your hands on. It hardly matters what it is, but just grabbing a score and sitting down and studying it is a really good way to get yourself acquainted with the craft and find out what you find works and what doesn't. This also goes with listening to music as well. Don't get stuck in a box. That's the worst thing that you can do.

You may also follow some of the lessons in the "Lessons" board on this forum, as seeing people give other people practical advice on their compositions will help you in your own work. I'm not quite sure how they accept students, but you might also be able to join in and have someone guide you through a process.

This was long-winded, but hopefully it's helpful.

ah! yeia sas:) Pos mpoereis na grafeis se ellinika gramata?

But yeah, only a few people on these forums will understand you when you speak greek;)

My best tip would be to check out the lessons forum and get yourself a teacher:).

Γειά και σε σένα!

The greek YC community welcomes you. To improve your skills in composition, I agree with Calehay, study a lot of scores. You could also try the lessons provided by YC's very talented members. Try Schoenberg's excellent book, Fundamentals of Musical Composition. Να'σαι καλά!