I'm Writing a Song!

In my efforts to build working relationships in the industry, I've met some fantastic young composers. But what I'm particularly interested in is collaborations. I want to be involved from the beginning, give opinions, and help make changes. In a fun turn of events, this desire has led me into one such collaborative relationship with an up-and-comer: 

We are writing a song together. Possibly a musical theater song cycle.

I'm a writer (blogger, creative writer, playwright), but I have never really tried to write a song. When I was in junior high and high school I certainly thought about it. I attempted to write lyrics. I thought up melodies. But I never knew what I was doing…and believe me, none of it was any good. 

Working with this composer has been an incredible learning experience for me so far. I get a peek into his brain. Right now we are developing a character and story. We haven't yet pinpointed exactly which parts of the story will make it into the song. 

I know every writer approaches his work differently, but I love this discovery that you can start writing a song much in the same way you would when writing a whole play. Just as actors have to figure out the backstory for their characters right from the beginning, this particular writer is infusing one song with a rich history and life.  

So far our brainstorming sessions have taken place over coffee meetings and e-mails. And in the midst of talking about details like the character's name, many personality flaws, and marital status this composer will pop out a lyric…right in the middle of our conversation. It's amazing! 

I am excited about this project for so many wonderful reasons. As a performer, it's obviously an incredible learning experience to see what goes into writing music for theater. And I'm sure it will infuse my approach to learning material from this point foward. But more than that, we are writing a song for ME. It's going to be written for my voice; for my personality as an actor. If nothing else, I know this song will be the perfect fit.

I love that.

There is no plan yet for where/when we will perform the song. But that's the business! That's what's exciting about new work- you never know where it will go. You could start in a staged reading in a basement cabaret space and next thing you know your in an off-Broadway show. 

This song could turn into a mainstage production. It could lead to a theater-song album. Oh the possibilities! And in a time when the industry is crawling along at a snails pace, I am so pleased (and lucky) to get to create work for myself. I get a chance to take my future into my own hands. What an exciting way to leap into 2012.

It's going to be a good year!

--Rachel F. Hirsch

Comments

[Linda Fausnet]

Sounds like a great opportunity. Good luck!