23 Januar 2013
How Do I Write So Much Music?
Over 70 songs in the last year and 14 publications since Jan. 1, 2013. How do I do it?
Here's what makes me a prolific songwriter.
1) Passion - My professional career is over and I have waited 40 years for this season of my life to do what I do best. I won't waste a moment! I cannot wait to get to work each day on writing and publishing new songs. 2) Discipline - I work everyday as if I am on deadline and must produce. It's all me, no boss or outside influence to generate this demand for productivity. It helps that I believe there are numerous songs in me just waiting to get out. I will do all I can to bring them to a timely birth. 3) Persistence - I do not wait for inspiration. I grab every fragment of melody, harmony, lyric, or rhythm and run with it. 4) Talent - I have received a gift from God and have a responsibility to use it. 5) Skill - I studied the basics of hymn writing 40 years ago in college. I have taught myself how to write, arrange and orchestrate many styles. I never stop learning and practicing. One of my mentors challenged me to arrange the same melody in three separate styles; I have trained myself to do just that. 6) Participation - I participate in a choir on a regular basis which exposes me to all kinds of music. I get a lot of ideas and insights from my efforts to perform great music with other passionate musicians. 7) Purpose - I intend to be a useful servant of Christ and the church my whole life. Writing and publishing my music is how I serve best now.