Each artist has their own methods, his particular formula when facing his creative work. Some classify it as rituals or part of the routine. For some composers, skipping these preset steps is unthinkable.
There are also those that do not require any special condition to write a song. An idea comes to mind, they write it down on any piece of paper (the napkin example is classic, almost a cliché) and voila. Others, after a meeting with friends or work, agreed what should be done and in a matter of minutes, they already had an assembled model.
All of the above is applicable for writers of any genre, style or format. Also for musical composers.
The first time
How to write a song for the first time? Having the restlessness and the desire is the main thing. In the same way that there are people to whom the creative processes of putting together a song - lyrics and music - are given naturally, others get stuck on the way.
In order not to be overwhelmed by frustration, you have to build your own creative methodology or routine. For this you can take into account some recommendations.
Be clear about what you want
Many times it happens that you have a more or less clear idea of how you are going to start a song. But when it comes to development and completion, this is where difficulties can arise.
EIt is important to have defined not only the starting point, but also the closing point. With these two aspects clear, in practical terms the composition work would consist of “filling in”.
Select a musical instrument as a helper
There are those who have the ability to outstandingly play many musical instruments. In all cases, each musician has his favorite above the rest.
It is advisable to use the favorite when working the chords of the new song. The goal is to ensure that everything flows as naturally as possible.
What's the song about
A song is a little story told with lyrics and music. Like all narration, it requires a clear and well-developed story.
Finding a song to sing about can be difficult work. However, ideas are always in the air and being pragmatic, anything works for a song.
Inspiration can be everywhere. You just have to pay attention.
Take advantage of every single phrase
Each phrase, every chorus, every idea that arises in the personal imagination must be noted. These single words will form a solidified structure
Answer questions
Many artists ask and sometimes answer questions through his works. This is a good place to start building and developing an idea.
Define the musical genre and style
If there is a factor that it will depend exclusively on the tastes of each person, is this.
In novice composers, the more weighty musical influences.
On a musical level, the first to rejoice in his work is the composer himself.
The order of the factors may alter the product
At the time of putting together the themes, some people prefer to start with the text and then add the melody. Others face the process in reverse: first the musical base and then the lyrics are added.
When compositions are on request, precise indications are usually received regarding the melodic characteristics that the piece will require or will be about.
If the work is free, in addition to your own tastes, the particular circumstances of each moment can also play a role.
Do not do without the pentagram
Those who have knowledge of musical language, it is recommended that they use the staff to develop their work.
La most people write music for themselves, mainly when they are starting in the art of composing. But memorizing all the chords and melodies is not a good idea.
Improvising is also worth it
Sometimes it happens to many that they have a fixed idea of a song, that they already have the lyrics of the chorus clear, but the "musical muse" does not reach them.
Improvise chords freely in front of the pianoWith the guitar or any other instrument, it is an exercise that can be liberating and also productive.
All these “free style” sessions must be recorded to later be listened to., analyzed and defragmented calmly. From this practice, really great things can come out.
Don't edit on an original idea
Once get a solid draft, either with regard to the music, the lyrics or a combination of both, it is recommended not to make changes to the original file.
They must take advantage of the digital world, to add, delete or change any note. The ideal is to create new documents (new versions) and identify them with ascending numbering (or any other system that works).
If the changes go in the right direction, nothing happens. But If the modifications do not meet expectations, it is always good to go back to the genesis of the idea and start over.
Basic structure of a song
Knowing and mastering the classical structure of a song can superlatively simplify the composition of a musical theme.
A song can be divided into three parts:
Verse: concentrates the plot of the story. Provide details, create suspense, allow for unexpected twists. Anticipate the arrival of the choir.
In narrative terms, inflection points are placed in the verses that allow the story to move on and unfold.
Chorus or chorus: this is the catchiest part of every song.
The chorus of every hit song it remains installed in the unconscious of whoever listens to the song.
In the chorus some phrases or the ideas of the verses are repeated, but generally, without advancing the story.
Bridge: It is a section that, both melodically and with respect to the narrated part, contrasts with the rest of the song. It works as a kind of wake-up call for listeners, like an interruption to the monotony.
In dramatic terms, new details are offered regarding the story. In songs with a single bridge, it can be the equivalent of the center point, within the plot.
The bridge is between the verse and the chorus. As this section ends, the base chords of the song come into action again.
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