I’m sure that the world of music can sometimes be intimidating to those who do not play an instrument. I know seeing someone use all four limbs independently to create an awesome beat looks extremely difficult. However I want to stop you there! I want you to forget everything you know about ‘what it takes to make music’ and read these words; ANYONE CAN MAKE MUSIC. Will you be the best? No, but you don’t have to be Gordon Ramsey to cook dinner.
Before I went into post secondary education I was under the impression that music was about competition and getting that next grade in Royal Conservatory. This is the thing that I cannot stress enough, If you think you need to be good, educated or talented to make music then you are missing out on one of the best things you can experience. Music is about participating in something that makes you feel great, helps you to expresses yourself and lets you share something with people. I know what you’re thinking. “That’s great and all, but I have zero talent in music and do not know where to start”. Fear not! I have three ways that someone with no musical experience can create music.
Start by finding an instrument. The easiest, and my personal favourite, is a simple bucket or pot. Anyone can hit two spoons against a pot.
Make a Soundscape. If you saw CRASH’s video challenge last week you will have learned that a soundscape is like a landscape but with sound. We can use sounds to recreate an environment. Experiment with different types of sticks or techniques to find the right sound. It’s a lot of fun and therapeutic.
Make a graphic score. This is a way to combine your love of art with music. Draw an image, create a mini road map that can direct the way you play. Then try and follow it and make sounds that reflect the image. It can be as structured or loose as you like. You’re the composer!
So before you decide that music is out of your reach think outside the box and remember that you don’t have to be the best to participate.
Hilary