From GarageBand to Global Stages: An Alumni’s Lesson in Innovation and Grit

Grade 5 students at GNS recently welcomed alumnus Ross Koopmans ’08, a successful freelance music composer, back to campus. His presentation wasn’t just about writing catchy tunes; it was a powerful lesson in innovation, persistence and the sheer grit required to build a creative career.

For Ross, the journey wasn’t about perfectly reproducing other people’s work—it was about creating his own. Starting with classical piano at six and quickly switching to jazz guitar, he felt an immediate, strong need to compose.

“I never wanted to just learn other people’s music,” he told the students. “I felt the need to make my own, like I had something to say.”

This desire to express himself drove an insatiable curiosity for all forms of music, from Michael Jackson to Brian Eno, and poetic lyricists to European dance tracks.

A major turning point came in high school when Ross discovered GarageBand. He started producing his first tracks, experimenting with recorded guitar loops and sample-based beats on his sister’s computer, a process that ultimately led to winning a district scholarship. This early exploration demonstrated a key lesson in innovation: use the tools you have to create something new, and let your curiosity guide you.

Ross took an ambitious but winding path through higher education, proving that success often requires pivoting and adapting. He pursued two master’s degrees, one in music composition in London and another in sound engineering at McGill. While the academic route didn’t ultimately suit his expansive love for music, the experience refined his skills and confirmed his desire to remain a creative artist, not just a technician.

His time abroad, living and working in musical hotspots like Berlin, London and Lisbon, underscores the persistence required to pursue opportunity. As a freelancer, he emphasized the importance of showing up: “To increase your chances for luck, you have to physically be where things are happening,” he shared. “This involved relentless networking, emailing, and even “inviting myself over to composers’ houses for dinner!”

This consistent, proactive effort led to his first big break: composing for a major TV series, Law & Order, after meeting a mentor at a London party.

Perhaps the most impactful takeaway for the young students was the lesson on grit, the courage and resolve to continue despite setbacks.

Working as a freelancer means accepting that life is not a straight line; it’s full of ups and downs. Ross stressed the need for financial diversification (working as a sound engineer, composer for ads, teacher, etc.) to become a complete musician and a more resilient professional.

Crucially, he spoke about the thousands of hours of unpaid work he did on low-budget, independent projects. This was the work that truly defined his “brand” and made his portfolio shine. It was this body of honest, quality music that ultimately impressed the composer who hired him for the TV series.
“If it feels like it is a waste of time because you aren’t earning money from it right now,” he advised. “It absolutely is not. It is an investment for the future; you are investing in yourself.”

Ultimately, Ross stressed that the life of a creative professional demands immense courage, persistence and acceptance. While financial security may look different, the freedom to pursue your passion is invaluable. He reminded the Grade 5 students that your name and your “brand” are their most valuable assets. They are built through relentless, honest effort. By committing to the work and being physically present where opportunities arise, you increase your chances for that magical moment of “luck.”

The takeaway is simple but powerful: Persist through the challenges, never stop being curious, and always keep creating.