A song is a musical composition with vocals, usually performed at distinct and fixed pitches (melodies) using patterns of sound and silence. It may be accompanied by a single instrumentalist, as is often the case in popular music; or by a band or an orchestra in classical music. The term can also be used to describe a small group of singers, such as a duo or trio. The word song is also commonly used to distinguish from the larger vocal music forms of opera and oratorio, which are referred to as aria and recitative respectively.
Songs are an incredibly powerful and potent art form, whether they express simple emotions or are complex and profound. It’s a form of communication that can touch people from all walks of life, and even change their lives forever.
Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned pro, there are always things to learn about songwriting and how to create your own masterpieces. Some songwriters follow a specific, structured method for writing their songs while others work in a more random and ad-hoc way. However, whichever approach you take to the craft of songwriting, there are certain techniques that consistently deliver exceptional results.
A great way to improve your songwriting is by regularly critiquing your own work. But getting a balanced perspective on your own material can be difficult, especially as a songwriter who is so closely attached to their songs. That’s why it’s so important to be able to step back and objectively evaluate your own work.