SOME musicians, especially early in their career, go through periods where they feel they aren’t growing artistically. This is particularly true of those who spend a lot of time playing at home by themselves. So let’s consider a few kick starters – maybe one of them will be right for you or someone you know.
Beginning with technology, which is now at everyone’s fingertips, the internet is a huge source of inspiration for musicians. You don’t need to look far to find motivating artists in your chosen field online! Just google your instrument or the style of music you enjoy or the player you’d like check out. Software or hardware based, looping is something that has taken off in recent years. This can be a source of immense fun. Singing along with, or taking a solo over what you have put down on the looper can soon turn into a song writing session.
If you are a guitar player, although this tip applies to a lot of instruments, experimenting with alternate tunings can revitalise some of those old chord progressions you’ve been jamming on. It can be a source of quite an original sound. Look for example at the music of Joni Mitchell who was playing with alternate tuning from very early in her career. I may be wrong but I think she retuned her instrument (usually the guitar) for every song she wrote. I recall reading a book on song writing back in the 90s where it noted she used more than 50 different tunings in her songs.
Retreating a step to something really obvious, if you are spending too much time doing the “same old same old” at home with your music, why not get out and play in front of people? There are plenty of welcoming Open Mics around the place and live performance can bring an edge to what you are doing. It will certainly give you a focus as you prepare for what you will play, and it will get the creative juices flowing.
Why not think about playing with someone else? Collaboration can be a real boon for someone used to being a solo artist or go one step further and join a choir, ukulele or djembe group. If you are lacking the confidence you feel that you need to jump in and join a group, then at least attend lots of live concerts, especially Open Mics where there will be others perhaps also hesitant about playing in public. Everyone has to start somewhere!
If this all sounds a bit ho hum, ie you’ve done most or all of the above, then why not pass on some of what you know, or invite a newcomer to join a group to aid in their first steps? Sharing your talents could inspire creativity in others and what you give out surely comes back. Music creates joy in all involved so don’t be surprised if the doors you open for others inspire you to venture further in your own work, and that’s a win win!
