Ask HN: If I want to compose my own music, how can I get started?

I'm a programmer, but I've decided I want to make music. Very specific genres of music:

    - Classical Music (like [0])
    - Progressive Rock / Symphonic Rock (like [1])
    - Rock Opera (like [2])
    - Proto Metal (like [3])

So, whats the best way to get started?

    - Taking papers on music theory?
    - Playing at least 1 instrument?
    - Using software to tinker with sounds?

 I've also considered making my own audio software in C, maybe starting with 8-bit music

[0] - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlCjtBsQY3Q

[1] - https://youtube.com/clip/UgkxfP0TplV2UPFFUGKWj-PvoAJwz3x3pJov?si=2nU7Ck3eu7mb7ZLA

[2] - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hKYpNpajpI&t=520s

[3] - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jX0caf1HvNs

Story

Ask HN: If I want to compose my own music, how can I get started?