Creation of a Song

The process of song writing has furthered my interest and therefore understanding of many different subjects. Inspiration can come from many sources including our own imaginations. Creation requires organizing information into a coherent piece of work. Performance is about presenting that work to others in a way that allows them to participate in your experiences, an exercise in communication. Effective communication requires a thorough understanding of a subject. My program involves students in this process, offering them an opportunity to think about subjects they are studying in a different way. This can be explored in one classroom period but I have found it more effective to meet two or three times with a group of students.

• school subjects you are studying
• where you live
• someplace you'd like to live
• a story you'd like to share
• something you enjoy
• something you don't enjoy
• what you see out the window
• what you don't see out the window

• Think about a melody, tempo, and rhythm for the song.
You can make up your own melody or use one from a familiar song depending on time and familiarity with music. This should happen in conjunction with writing the words and support the subject matter. Happy song? Maybe a quicker tempo and an upbeat melody. Sad song? Maybe slower and more thoughtful.

• Decide on a subject and create a chorus
Discuss a number of subjects and select one that interests everyone. Vote if necessary. Create a chorus. It should contain the main point of interest or sum up the story.

• Write verses to go with the chorus.
Try having small groups write one or more verses to the song, depending on class size and age. The verses should contain information that the students would like to share or tell parts of a story. This can also be done as a class.

• Regroup and arrange the verses and chorus in a coherent order.
Remember that the chorus doesn't necessarily have to follow every verse. The order of the verses is most important if you are telling a story.

Frank Gotwals
F+D Records/Sea Songs
684 Oceanville RD
Stonington,Me. 04681
frankg@midmaine.com
(207)367-2259