Simpedia

Vonnie, Oregon

Just thought I’d share an idea I got from a workshop I attended on composing. It relates to setting poems to music. The teacher was actually talking about using words that are not yet in poetic form where you have to start by creating the meter (rhythm). I lost my notes from this workshop, but I think this is basically how it went:

1. Write out the words in lines like a poem.
2. Read the words out loud over and over with lots of expression in as many ways as possible.
3. Underline the syllables which you would naturally emphasize (according to the meaning of the text).
4. Make a slash mark above each syllable where the strong beat falls (according to the rhythm). Count the number of beats in each line. If they are not the same, then you will have to either break a long line in two or add beats to a shorter line. Adding beats can be done either by lengthening a syllable (held note or melisma), repeating a word or phrase or using rests. Avoid squeezing lots of syllables into one “foot” or measure.
5. Check to make sure that the underlined syllables all fall on a strong beat. If not, some shifting needs to be done.
6. Read aloud again. Note the rise and fall of your voice and design a melody that follows that contour. Use lots of repetition and variations!

I have used the steps as I remember them several times and was happy with the results, considering my level of (in)experience. Of course, you still have to figure out the harmony, but that is another story! You can usually fill in with I, IV and V or V7 chords and maybe an occasional II or VI.

Ginny W.Western AU

I would like to add something to this thread by way of sharing my experience of writing songs and running workshops (for the last 7 years or so I have written and at times performed or directed a mix of a cappella/choral arrangements, contemporary acoustic and comic songs).

I think all the technical stuff is great, because it is a playful way of inviting structure and enlarging the ‘tool kit’. I can relate to the process of turning a poem- either my own or someone else’s–into a song, and also to the process of ‘workshopping’ songs.

I would add that there is what I call a ‘body, heart and soul element’. I believe it is important to find themes that ‘resonate’ with our own experiences, observations and passions. I have embraced the belief that songs ‘come through us’ from some numinous place – whatever your God concept is (The Artist’s Way, an inspirational book by Julia Cameron is what got me going and is worth checking out regarding this–it mirrors the Simply Music belief that music, creativity and self-expression generally is a natural thing to which we all have a right). Giving space in life to allowing creative babies to be born is an essential part of the process, in my experience and a songwriting workshop is a great way to achieve that focus in a supported way, as is personal, quiet time.

I also think it is worth considering–just as Neil points out in the introductory conversation–that words have their own ‘natural’ melody and rhythm. Song is really just an exaggerated expression of these. People have often asked me “which comes first, the melody or the words?” In my experience, words and music have often ‘arrived’ together because they ‘naturally’ fit together and then may only require a bit of ‘tweaking’ to create the optimum arrangement. Other times, I have written a poem first, then gone to the piano and fitted some chords to it.

Simply Music opened a wonderful door for me because, through the accompaniment process, I was able to take chords and set my songs to music in a way I had previously not been able to on guitar. Even with a simple set of level 1 chords and a few rhythmic tricks, it is possible to create subtle and exquisite-sounding pieces. Even once you know Honeydew, you have many potential songs at your fingertips!

I don’t feel strongly drawn to being a fulltime performer at this point in my life, but I have shared my songs by performing them and recording some of them. I write songs for friends and for my own inspiration–songs that speak my truths, joys and difficulties (as well as the ones that capture my humor!). My favorite meditation is to go to the piano and play some of my more soulful songs, which give me much joy and comfort.

Enjoy the process!