February 2009

Capturing the Winds - Writing for Wind Players
Generally, we know that either a guitarist or keyboardist will be leading the song. Keyboardists often play chords in the middle of the keyboard which, surprise, is just where a lot of the horn sounds are heard. Additionally, many keyboardists also add in their bass tones in their left hands. The bass, if not careful may end up competing with the left hand of the keyboardists.

A Little Help From My Friends

It’s no big secret that Americans tend to be fierce individualists. Most of us see ourselves as expressions of our deeper selves. Our faith, our fears, our concerns, our guidelines, our art, these things are ultimately under our own supervision and not overtly connected to the world at large, let alone the Church.

Capturing the Winds - An Example of Writing Horn Parts
Let’s take a song as an example. My worship leader and pastor, Trevor Walker, has kindly given me permission to use one of his songs so we will use his song “Set Me Free”. This particular song is a fast paced electric piano driven song in the key of E with bass, organ, and a touch of R&B style.

The Wind and the Rock
People are wired differently. As a songwriter who has never been mistaken for a manager, I am fascinated by accountants. It's a marvel to me that anyone could actually enjoy doing what they do. I'm sure they wish they could be normal like me... (I hope you know I'm kidding!)