Um ... Yes, those composers were classically trained. In fact the music they WROTE was recorded and noted as classical music shortly after it was produced. They used classical Italian notation, and I really don't know why when you say "self-taught" you realize they had teachers who were classically trained, teaching them in the traditional style. Because they came up with their own music doesn't mean they weren't classically trained. I play flute, clarinet, guitar, bass, sax, drums, my vocal range covers bass to soprano, and I have a moderate knowledge of You play the funniest combination of instruments, and my guess is you're terrible at them or are just lying. Mandolin is tuned to a major chord and is incredibly easy to play. Harmonica is also one of the easiest instruments to learn. I can't imagine how hard even a lower level band teacher would laugh at you for what you're saying. I am simply going to not read any further comments by you as you are either full of yourself or a troll.