6 Ways to Break Through Music Writer's Block
As with any creative endeavor, simply getting started can be one of the most difficult parts of writing music. We’ve all had times when we’re staring at a blank page. Here are a few things Sean and I try to kick start the creative process a bit.
Phil
- If I’m dead in the water, with no ideas whatsoever, one of the best things I can do is take a walk. A change of scenery triggers subtle memories or thoughts that won’t otherwise occur.
- Assuming I already have a tiny idea floating around in my head, I find that playing those chords or melody with different instruments can help tremendously. What seems bland and tired on a piano might sound fantastic on the right synth.
- If I’m stuck on the melody, I’ll switch gears and think about chords. Or vice versa.
Sean
- I like to think in four parts: Bass, Tenor, Alto and Soprano. The Soprano part harbors the melody while the other three move in stepwise manner. If possible, I like to incorporate Common Practice Period methods and then break from those methods to tailor my project.
- Priority for me is having a strong bass with an established chord progression. Most of the time the melody comes last.
- I like to work in small chunks. If I do think of a melody first, I’ll come up with a motif or a musical idea that comprises as little as a few notes, and expand upon it later.
Let us know what you find helpful when you’re starting a piece of music!
Soundspring Studio