Song Production with Beijing Musicians’ Association
2024
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Recorded an original song with band to be part of an album titled “JUNIOR ROCK 3” (produced by the Beijing Musicians’ Association)
As a drummer, coordinated the band and went through extensive improvisations and discussionsto produce the song
Performed original song as well as covers music at premier performance and various other events
Beginning:
Out band was invited to record song for Beijing Musician' Association to publish on an album. However, we had no experience composing original song before. We also wanted to experiment with some new instruments and compositions to make it more interesting
Development:
We started by improvising to generate sparks of ideas. There was also a lot of communication as we decided on choices. We also polished our skills in our own instruments to make sure we can execute what we planned.
Results:
We were finally able to produce a song that met all of our previous expectations and leave with a lot more understanding in music composition and our instruments, but also were able to enhance our communication and team working skills.
It all started when we received an invitation from the Beijing Musicians' Association. The goal was to compose and record a original piece of music in the genre of rock or metal within a few month with my bandmates who I have worked with before.
The beginning part was a big challenge, because this is the first time any of us have done this. Starting from scratch, its hard for anyone to put in the "first thing" into the "blank canvas". Therefore, we decided to do some improvising (jamming), where the other instruments would decide on a progression and we would all play together. This is a method we adopted from some more professional bands, because it is the quickest way to spark new ideas and capture bits and pieces that are usable in the actual song.
After many sessions we decided on the basic structure, progression and melodies. We also decided that we were going to make this a unique song by adding in many interesting things that a traditional approach to music in this genre wouldn't have had. We decided to add in a launch-pad player (creating digital sound effects) and the same person would also play a bass connected to a synthesizer effect pedal, turning the bass song similar to a synthesizer but still keeping characteristics of the instrument.
On top of these cool additions, we also decided to add in more diverse effects and sounds through a backing track that will play the same time we do. However, this means that we would need to play perfectly in tempo with it and make sure we are in sync. This role falls onto the drummer, which is me. This means that I will need to listen to a metronome and the track through in-ear monitor and making sure the entire band stays in tempo by listening to me. the responsibility on my shoulders were huge as I needed to lead the band and literally decide if the performance was successful or failed.
There were many more challenges such as being limited by skills and techniques in the instrument, and disagreements between band members. However, we were able to overcome all of these challenged and read the end result of finishing the composition and recording process before the deadline. We also performed the original song as well as several other cover songs at the premiere of the album and a few other venues.
Overall, I was able to accomplish the goals I set for this project experience and develop myself thoroughly through overcoming challenges, solving problems, and demonstrating leadership skills.