If Bach were alive today, what would his song-writing critique be?
- Your pieces are too long and too complicated.
- Make it easier for musicians to cope with.
- Where is your chorus?
- It’s not congregational.
- You have a good tune but it’s rather cluttered.
I’ll shut up – before the classical musicians disown me!
My point is this – that choruses and congregational songs should not be our sole focus or our greatest goal. Clearly, the music industry has a focus on congregational songs – but this is a website! The Internet makes it possible for your music to be heard whatever the genre!
- Are you striving to write choruses when actually you hear a classical piece?
- Are you avoiding writing the Christian song and straining to write the Christian chorus?
- Are you searching for words when actually you hear a meditative melody?
I am not trying to rebel. I am trying to release!
The Bible encourages us to bring psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. It does not dictate that it should be in the form of three verses, a catchy chorus and a bridge. Don’t stifle your own creativity by putting on a style that is not a comfortable fit. David turned down Saul’s armour. I have no doubt that it was excellent quality – but it just did not ‘fit!’
You probably still want to write the congregational songs – right? Just don’t stifle creativity if you find another style is stirring within.
Write the River.
Pat
