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Musical Composition, Theory and Songwriting/Questions Answered by Expert Bill Pere

Subject	Date Asked
Vocal Arrangement fees	2/5/2012
Q: I have been trawling the net to find out what the going rate in the UK is for writing vocal ... A: Martin, There is no precise answer for this question as it involves many different factors: -- ...
Licensing	1/24/2012
Q: I have been reading about the different licenses required for works of music and need some ... A: John, Thanks for your question, This is an important topic that confuses lots of folks. You're ...
my song	1/23/2012
Q: I have composed a nice ballad and played it on a clarinet. What's the best way to get it on a sheet ... A: Dick, Thanks for your question. You're actually asking two questions: The first is how to ...
A chord question about writing hymns	12/17/2011
Q: recently I found new pleasure in listening to Catholic hymns, like How great thou art, Abide with ... A: Kevin, Thanks for your question. In writing a hymn, or any type of music, you can always use any ...
Does the song length determine whether you have a bridge or not?	11/16/2011
Q: I am writing a piano-based ballad (in the style of Jim Brickman) and was wondering if I need to add ... A: Kevin, Thanks for your question. Lots of writers get confused about elements of song structure. ...
Does a good song needs to be catchy?	10/29/2011
Q: My question is about how a song can be seen as being good critically. This question is very broad. ... A: Kevin Thanks for your question. Understand that good songwriting and popularity are totally ...
grammar in lyrics	10/7/2011
Q: should the lyrics of any song be written in perfect grammar and composition? A: Jovit, Thanks for your question. This brings up an important point that many writers overlook. ...
Whether you can use a fictional detail for your factual song?	9/18/2011
Q: My question is about whether you can use a fictional detail for your factual song, especially when ... A: Kevin, Thanks for your question - this is an important topic. Ask yourself if you're writing ...
Can YouTube help a songwriter to promote his songs?	9/16/2011
Q: YouTube is said to help many unknown artists to become famous. But it seems to me that most of the ... A: Han Kim: Thanks for your question. YouTube is certainly a tremendous asset for gaining wide ...
Future of songwriting as a job?	9/5/2011
Q: Could you pls explain a little about the job of a songwriter in the near future. Is it true that ... A: Kevin, This is a very big topic, much more than can fit in this space. As long as music exists, ...
What if your song is meant for a choir?	8/15/2011
Q: I wrote a song which is meant, for maximum effect, to be sung by a choir. But in this case, I'm ... A: Kevin, Thanks for your question - I've written many songs for choir and have found several paths to ...
Polyrhythms	7/11/2011
Q: This is what I got from http://tagg.org/articles/opelet.html. from the 'Rhythm' section. "It is ... A: Bob, Thanks for your question. There is one piece of information missing in your question which ...
An arranger as a songwriter?	7/11/2011
Q: I have often been curious about this. On paper, a professional arranger seems to be able to write ... A: Marie, Thanks for your question. It is important to think of the development of a song in terms ...
What can one learn about the song You raise me up?	6/9/2011
Q: Perhaps you know very well the hit song You raise me up, which has been covered by many artists in ... A: Kevin, Thanks for your question. When looking at the songwriting lessons that can be learned ...
Octaves	4/9/2011
Q: How do you know )from sheet music) what octave to play a certain note in? A: Jenny, Thanks for your question. By definition, the note with the single line below the staff ...
A question about chord progression	3/22/2011
Q: First, pls forgive me for my language. I'm not a native speaker, so it is hard for me to use the ... A: Liam, Thanks for your question. The short answer to your question is yes - you can use an ...
"Fats" Domino	12/30/2010
Q: Bill, Thanks for the quick response. I understand your comments about innovation and correctness, ... A: Paul, Fats Domino was making music in the pre Rock-n-Roll era, and his tendency to emphasize ...
Where to begin if you write children's songs?	11/27/2010
Q: I write a few songs for children and would like to send the demos to relevant people, but don't know ... A: Marie, Thanks for the question. If your demos are ready to send (i.e. produced up to industry ...
Could I send my demo directly to the singer's manager?	11/24/2010
Q: I have finished my demo and would like to send the song to one of the singers I admire. By chance, ... A: Kevin, Thanks for this important question. Many folks ask about this very thing. When you have ...
Putting existing lyrics to one's own music?	10/26/2010
Q: I want to ask if this is a good or a bad exercise. Should a student try to put an existing lyrics ... A: Tony, Thanks for your question, and it is good that you are seeking to find ways to improve your ...
Verse and chorus both begin with the same phrase?	10/25/2010
Q: May I ask if it still makes a good song if the verse and the chorus start with the same phrase? For ... A: Michael, Thanks for the question. Verse/chorus differentiation is an important part of making a ...
Which major key you should use in the chorus?	10/25/2010
Q: If I understand correctly, there are (at least) two related major keys for every minor key. For ... A: Jordan, Thanks for your question -- the topic of keys and scales is often confusing for people. ...
How do I know if the song should be written as a 2/4 or 4/4 song?	10/23/2010
Q: I'm writing a ballad (in the style of Love story or Speak softly love). I have aI'm confused about ... A: Liam, Thanks for your question. People are often confused about time signatures, so you're not ...
How good is Diane Warren as a songwriter?	10/5/2010
Q: According to what I read, for the past 20 years, Diane Warren is the most successful commercial ... A: Alice, Thanks for your insightful question. This highlights the important difference between ...
What is melodic songwriting?	10/4/2010
Q: I once read that the 60's was really the Golden Age of melodic songwriting. We had Brian Wilson, The ... A: Christopher, This is a very insightful and complex question, and a complete answer would be quite ...
Can an American songwriter like foreign songs?	9/22/2010
Q: I'm always curious whether popular songs can truly overcome language or cultural barriers. Perhaps ... A: Liam << "a well-written song by itself does not guarantee success. It has to get to the right ...
Can an American songwriter like foreign songs?	9/21/2010
Q: I'm always curious whether popular songs can truly overcome language or cultural barriers. Perhaps ... A: Liam, You have several questions here, all very good ones. I probably can't cover them all in ...
Is this a very good song?	9/19/2010
Q: I live in the UK and the song Run by Snow Patrol was one of the biggest hits here recently. Could ... A: Jason, This is an excellent and insightful question, as it shows you understand the difference ...
How should we rate the quality of "easy listening" songs?	9/18/2010
Q: If I understand correctly, crooners like Perry Como, Mel Torme, Jack Jones, Engelbert Humperdinck, ... A: <<If I understand correctly, crooners like Perry Como, Mel Torme, Jack Jones, Engelbert Humperdinck, ...
Do singers need to lose their accent when singing English songs?	9/13/2010
Q: I want to ask this question. For non-English singers (e.g, those from Asia, Africa), do they need ... A: Lee Chan: Thank you for your question. This is a very good point and it's good that you ask it ...
Studying at a music school - where to begin?	8/11/2010
Q: I'm a songwriter, in my 30s, from Asia. I would like to study more about Songwriting skills at a ... A: Hy Luong: Thank you for your question. This is not an uncommon dilemma that many people face when ...
Motifs	8/6/2010
Q: I want to compose pop songs, but I'm having some trouble with motifs. The various sources I have ... A: Christopher, Thanks for your question. Many people I work with who have had classical training ...
Songwriting with knowledge of theory VS. without	8/4/2010
Q: I've been playing guitar for a little over 6 years. I have learned lots of chords and techniques. I ... A: Steve, Thanks for your question. I understand where you're coming from. The short answer is that ...
song-writing rates	7/14/2010
Q: I was recently asked to write a song for my sister's friend (she was taking a class at NYU and ... A: Several people ask me about this. Keep in mind that there are always two options when you are ...
What are the best sites for music software reviews?	7/7/2010
Q: Could you pls let me know what are the best sites for music software reviews? I know "best" is ... A: Michael, Thanks for your question. You're correct that 'best' is subjective, but here is what I'd ...
Softwares useful for ballad songwriter?	6/28/2010
Q: The only software I use is Encore, to create sheet music for my songs. Mostly I write slow ballads, ... A: Victor, Hi, and thanks for your question. If you're asking only about creating sheet music, ...
Selling songs	5/23/2010
Q: I love this site! Thanks! My question - I have been writing songs since I was 11 and recently when ... A: Marike, Thanks for your question - this is something that lots of folks ask about. The important ...
Aesthetics	4/12/2010
Q: how mant researches had been done yet on aesthetics of chords specially in tune making and ... A: Abhishek, Thanks so much for this excellent question. There has been a great deal of research ...
The feelings different chords give	4/9/2010
Q: I have two questions: 1. In one of your past answers you said that different chords give different ... A: Yoni: Thanks for your questions << 1. In one of your past answers you said that different chords ...
chord feelings	2/10/2010
Q: I read some of your past answers and they were really good dealing with the "five elements that ... A: Chance, Thanks for your question, and I'm glad you found my previous information to be of interest ...
When does "jamming" becomes collaboration?	2/4/2010
Q: I'm in a band that does originals. The question has come up as to who is really writing the songs. ... A: Raymond, Thanks for the question - it's an area that many others struggle with as well., so you're ...
Royalties	1/22/2010
Q: I have arranged a choral piece using three songs, only one of which is public domain. I was ... A: Colleen, Thanks for your question. You are correct that the writers of the two copyrighted works ...
Royalities	12/28/2009
Q: I just recorded my first cd. I know that most of the material is not public domain. I want to be ... A: Rudy, Thanks for your question, and on behalf of the songwriter community, thanks for making the ...
designing sounds from a feeling	12/23/2009
Q: I know I want to base songs on charisma and stylishness, (which I understand as using the elements ... A: James, Thanks for your question. While there is an "answer" to your question, it is not a ...
chord progressions	12/21/2009
Q: i am trying to compare the basic 12 bar blues progression with the chord progressions of the basso ... A: Tom, Hi, and thanks for your question. Perhaps the reason you are having a hard time comparing ...
songwriter rights	12/15/2009
Q: I am trying to open a teen-club in North Port, fl. When I will play a song, will I have to report a ... A: Marcos, Thank you for your question. It is especially nice to see someone who is aware that ...
improvising with a drummer	12/13/2009
Q: I have started improvising my own reasonably skilled lead and rhythm guitar playing along with a ... A: James, Thanks for your question. This is an interesting topic. I have worked with several ...
i need help writing songs!	11/28/2009
Q: hey bill. I'm 15 years old and I've been playing guitar for about four years, I've spent hours and ... A: Kirstin, Hi, and thanks for your question. Writing lyrics is usually more difficult than coming up ...
how to start writing a song?	11/25/2009
Q: How do I start writing a song? I have been trained as a classical singer/pianist. But I am very ... A: Paula, Thank you for your question. I get this a lot from many people, so you're not alone. There ...
selling my lyrics	10/18/2009
Q: I've written a few songs in the past few years (lyrics only) and have been asked by (a ... A: Zipi, Thanks for your questions – this is a very common area where songwriters are not sure what ...
Round songs	10/5/2009
Q: How do you write a round song? One that can be sung as a two or three part round? A: Maria, Hi - thanks for your question. Anything that has to do with the general aspects of ...
translating poems to lyrics	8/31/2009
Q: I have been writing poems (or something of the like) for the last 15 years. Recently, a couple of ... A: Alberto, Thanks for your question. You raise one of the most important issues in all of ...
Rates for Arranging	8/22/2009
Q: I really appreciate this service! Can you tell me about typical rates and methods of charging (by ... A: Theo, Thanks for your question. << Can you tell me about typical rates and methods of charging ...
Copyright and royalties	8/19/2009
Q: I just wanted to thank you on the last question I asked on the 14th about collaborating, but wanted ... A: Kimberly, (Last question for this topic - I'll be traveling to Nashville after today). This whole ...
Copyright and royalties	8/19/2009
Q: I just wanted to thank you on the last question I asked on the 14th about collaborating, but wanted ... A: Kimberly, You asked: Does a songwriter's name have to be on the registered copyright in order to ...
Sharing songwriting credits	8/18/2009
Q: I read a very clear and informative answer already posted about this question but I still need some ... A: Manda, Thanks for the question - it's probably the most common type of question I get from around ...
Working with other artist	8/14/2009
Q: I am an unsigned singer/songwriter, and am often contacted by rap artist requesting that I write ... A: You asked: <<I am an unsigned singer/songwriter, and am often contacted by rap artists requesting ...
chord voicing	8/4/2009
Q: hello there i am learning jazz piano so i wanted about know about chord voicing for my solos of ... A: Sushant, Thanks for your question. Chord voicing refers to the particular order (low-to-high) ...
Storytelling weight of a song	7/28/2009
Q: Hey Bill, There are two parts to my question. First, I'm curious about how people talk of the ... A: Sean , Thank you for your very thoughtful question. I actually teach whole workshops on this ...
songwriting	7/25/2009
Q: I ve been writing lyrics for a long time and i honestly belive my lyrics have great potencial. My ... A: Lara, Thanks for your question. You're not alone in asking this, as I receive many questions like ...
determining a major key	6/12/2009
Q: I have music that I am playing with my pebnywhistle. The guitar chords are Am, G, Em, F7 and F. ... A: << have music that I am playing with my pebnywhistle. The guitar chords are Am, G, Em, F7 and F. ...
half note tied to staccato	3/29/2009
Q: In my piano piece, there is a half note tied to a staccato quarter note. How do I play this? Do I ... A: Kelly, Hi - Thanks for your question. <<...a half note tied to a staccato quarter note... Do I ...
composition/licensing	3/14/2009
Q: instrumental music, and also performing all the parts for the recording of this song. I will ... A: <<I am writing a song that will be on another person's CD of electronic, instrumental music, and ...
Compulsory vs Derivative license	3/6/2009
Q: I have a couple questions about Compulsory vs Derivative licenses. 1) If I record a cover of an ... A: John, Thanks for your question - these are all good points and it's good that you recognize the ...
Scale & Chord theory	1/30/2009
Q: I'm sort of new to the 'theory' part of music. And after having read up on on scales and their likes ... A: Ash, Thanks for your question. It comes at a good time, as I am conducting a music theory ...
songwriting credit	1/25/2009
Q: i am in a 3 piece band. guitar , drums, and bass. i play guitar and sing. i write all the songs, ... A: so you're not alone. You have two separate issues here: << i write all the songs, but the bass ...
More specific songwriting	1/20/2009
Q: Alright, thank you again for your last answer, it was extremely helpful, and I think it will point ... A: Matt, <<You mentioned that in every song, the verse should be in one key, the chorus another, and ...
Composition without lyrics	1/14/2009
Q: Pere, I'm not entirely certain if this is a question I can be helped with, but alas, I'll try it. ... A: Matt, Thank you for your question. It is not an uncommon one, and does not have one simple ...
song writting	12/27/2008
Q: how can i write good songs with proper lyric arrangement A: Hartley, <<How can i write good songs with proper lyric arrangement>> Thanks for your question. ...
Collaborations	12/12/2008
Q: I am a songwriter/producer and some of my works are strictly instrumentals. I want to work with ... A: Simon, Hi - good to hear from you again. << I have an artist that wants to use one of my ...
Harmonisation	12/11/2008
Q: I would like to know the practical procedure towards Harmonizing any chord in the world of music. A: <<You wrote: I would like to know the practical procedure towards Harmonizing any chord in the ...
emotion, expression	12/9/2008
Q: I am extremely confused by the unacknowledged value of lyrics when corresponding to the aesthetic ... A: <<You wrote: I am extremely confused by the unacknowledged value of lyrics when corresponding to ...
minor keys and scales	12/1/2008
Q: What is the parallel major of the relative minor of G major A: <<What is the parallel major of the relative minor of G major>> Jimmie, Hi , thanks for your ...
The technical aspects of creating a bridge.	10/22/2008
Q: I've been trying my hand at creating pop songs and I have go stuck on what method exactly should be ... A: Kamal, Thanks for your question. <<I I would like to know if there are any rules regarding which ...
vocal production	10/8/2008
Q: I'm searching everywhere for the definition of vocal arrangement & vocal production. I would like to ... A: Caryn, Thanks for your question. Lots of folks are unclear about this issue. <<.... definition ...
notes versus half tones conversion	8/21/2008
Q: I am experimenting with computer generated music, but I have no musical background. I am confused ... A: <<My question referred to notation and practical usage - e.g. a major triad is always the base note, ...
notes versus half tones conversion	8/19/2008
Q: I am experimenting with computer generated music, but I have no musical background. I am confused ... A: <<I am experimenting with computer generated music, but I have no musical background. I am confused ...
Music Theory	7/21/2008
Q: I used to take piano as a kid, when I was 6 years old, up until around 15. During that time, I ... A: <<...... My question is, what's the best way I can go about re-learning music theory. I learned ...
advertising and promoting music for other musicians and students	7/7/2008
Q: My question is regarding the promotion and making available the music we have for students and other ... A: <<Our cello trio music is arranged music of songs that most people know and love today. It is ...
advertising and promoting music for other musicians and students	7/6/2008
Q: My question is regarding the promotion and making available the music we have for students and other ... A: << My question is regarding the promotion and making available the music we have for students and ...
Chord sequences	7/1/2008
Q: I imagine you have been asked this a trillion times ... therefore sorry for the old question again: ... A: John, <<.... after years of Rachmaninov, I would like to switch over to the basics of songwriting. ...
counterpoint	5/18/2008
Q: I am an artist, and I make videos in collaboration with musiccians etc, normally working with ... A: << I wanted to do a singing project with over 50s, what I wanted to do was write a one minute poem ...
Song Structure	5/10/2008
Q: If it sounds fluid to the ear, is there anything wrong with an ABCABCAB song structure where A is ... A: <<If it sounds fluid to the ear, is there anything wrong with an ABCABCAB song structure where A is ...
Chord theory, vocals and song writing	4/27/2008
Q: 1)Is there such a thing as the best key for your voice, What is the correct to find that? 2)How do ... A: Lennar, Hi - thanks for your questions - I'll answer those that can be dealt with in the short ...
Music..	4/15/2008
Q: I have a couple more questions for you..if you can give me a good guess on this, that is all I ... A: Sarah Thanks for your follow-up question. <<If I played a few out of key chords(regular and power ...
Music..	4/13/2008
Q: Just wondering, would I be able to play a couple outside scales in a song, and still remain in the ... A: <<Just wondering, would I be able to play a couple outside scales in a song, and still remain in the ...
song writing and band name	2/17/2008
Q: Me and my friends have formed a band and we want to write song lyrics that mean something to people, ... A: <<Me and my friends have formed a band and we want to write song lyrics that mean something to ...
Melodies	2/8/2008
Q: I have a question on how to compose or come up with catchy melodies. I write a lot of poems,essays, ... A: Ryan-Maurice, Thank you for your question. The important thing to keep in mind here is that ...
writing a first song	1/29/2008
Q: bill, for a while now I've been trying to write a song and i cant seem to find any good topic to ... A: Rory, Thanks for your question. You bring up a very important topic - that of "Aboutness" For some ...
My living room to your radio?	1/22/2008
Q: I have written many songs and recorded about ten of them. My wife and friends suggested I "send ... A: Andrew, Thanks for your question. What you are asking is a very common question I get from ...
Next step	1/20/2008
Q: I have been "writing" songs since I was 15 and am now 33. I have no musical training and very ... A: <<I have been "writing" songs since I was 15 and am now 33. I have no musical training and very ...
Lyrical Composition	12/4/2007
Q: Bob, i need to know the basic structure for composition my main genre is rap and hip-hop, i have ... A: <<i need to know the basic structure for composition my main genre is rap and hip-hop, i have been ...
collaboration	9/21/2007
Q: Are you aware of any sort of guidelines in terms of allocation of ... A: Jeff, Hi - thanks for your question. <<Are you aware of any sort of guidelines in terms of ...
Lyrics	9/20/2007
Q: I desperately want to write intelligent, heartfelt, bigger than life lyrics. For me great lyrics ... A: Writing good lyrics takes practice but is easily the valuable skill in all the music business, as ...
music publishing and licencing	9/14/2007
Q: Bill Pere, I have a university assignment regarding music publishing and licencing. with your ... A: Bill Pere, <<I have a university assignment regarding music publishing and licencing. with your ...
a question for an expert	9/7/2007
Q: Pere, Can you tell me some rhyme techniques or common rhyme patterns in songs. I like r&b and ... A: <<Can you tell me some rhyme techniques or common rhyme patterns in songs. . I want to make my own ...
help, please	8/18/2007
Q: bill. I am 16 years old and have been playing guitar for about three years. while my friends would ... A: Omar, Hi - thanks for your question. You're correct that a knowledge of chords and melodic ...
Keys	6/24/2007
Q: First of all, thanks for the help you offer to all those who need it! Much appreciate it! My ... A: <<My question is regarding the tonality in modern songs, from beatles onwards, anything really. What ...
reading music	6/13/2007
Q: How can I tell which part is written for which instrument, i.e. which is for singing, guitar, drum ... A: <<How can I tell which part is written for which instrument, i.e. which is for singing, guitar, drum ...
Music	6/7/2007
Q: Bill, being an expert on musical composition, I have a question for you. Which, in your opinion, is ... A: <<Bill, being an expert on musical composition, I have a question for you. Which, in your opinion, ...
keeping listeners interest	5/3/2007
Q: I rarely see this topic even touched on in books on arranging, etc. After you learn about theory, ... A: <<Thanks for the great answer. Now I'm curious about how you figured out to go to those other ...
keeping listeners interest	5/3/2007
Q: I rarely see this topic even touched on in books on arranging, etc. After you learn about theory, ... A: << It seems to have to do with knowing WHERE to put stuff in the song to keep in interesting. I ...
Minor Scale Chords	4/26/2007
Q: My question is about the minor scale. I wanted to know what chords make up a minor scale, because i ... A: <<My question is about the minor scale. I wanted to know what chords make up a minor scale, because ...
Is it too late for me?	3/6/2007
Q: My name is Ryan Maurice and I am 22(turning 23 on wednesday). I am currently taking opera lessons ... A: <<My name is Ryan Maurice and I am 22(turning 23 on wednesday). I am currently taking opera lessons ...
chord progressions	2/19/2007
Q: Hey there Bill, Um,I suck at making chord progressions.They sound so cheesy.Got any pointers? thnx A: <<Um,I suck at making chord progressions.They sound so cheesy.Got any pointers?>> Joe, Thanks for ...
Piano Sheet Music	1/31/2007
Q: Perhaps you've experienced this same thing. You hear a great piano track and you desperately want to ... A: <<Do you know of anything like this, any pianist who writes sheet music for unknown songs? I'm ...
musicals	1/3/2007
Q: Im interested in musicals, but Im quite confused on the structure of songs in them. Talking about ... A: <<Im interested in musicals, but Im quite confused on the structure of songs in them. Talking about ...
SONG COMPOSITION	12/30/2006
Q: .i just wanted to ask what should i do..i play electric guitar and bass guitar in field of ... A: Domagoj, Thank you for your question. It would take far too much time and space to cover all the ...
Songwriting	12/12/2006
Q: I've been writing lyrics casually for about ten years. Lately, I'm taking it more seriously and I'm ... A: Doug, Hi, and thanks for your question. <<Hello, I've been writing lyrics casually for about ten ...
lyrical composition	12/2/2006
Q: Bill, I have a collection of roughly 100 short poems which have a similar cadence and rhythm; I ... A: Laura, Hi, and Thanks for your question. It's important first to be clear that there is a ...
help with notation question	11/13/2006
Q: please could you tell me what is the longest musical note in common use, with the tim value of 2 ... A: Below is a table of all the official note names, both US and British. US ...
One last question! (ASCAP)	11/2/2006
Q: I will keep in mind all of your suggestions. I wanted to ask you about ASCAP (an association of ... A: Miguel, ASCAP. BMI and SESAC are the three Performing Rights Organizations in the U.S. (PRO's). ...
Musical Vocals	11/1/2006
Q: I usually compose instrumental pieces, however after playing in many orchestra pits for local shows ... A: Shawn, Thanks for your question. I also write musicals, and as long as you understand basic ...
obtaining lyric critique	9/25/2006
Q: hey bill my name is pete im frome a small town in ontario canada,ive been wrighting songs since i ... A: << A problem i've consitantly had is obtaining basic constructive critisisim on my lyrics>> Pete, ...
how to pull emotions from chords-followup	9/23/2006
Q: answered where he stated "if you are writing chords and melodies to existing lyrics (your own or ... A: << i understand a little more now from what you said. do you have any reference songs for other ...
how to pull emotions from chords	9/23/2006
Q: answered where he stated "if you are writing chords and melodies to existing lyrics (your own or ... A: Jonathan, Thanks for your question. This is an important part of effective songwriting. << ...
I was wondering what type/style of singer I am.	8/11/2006
Q: I was wondering what type/style of singer I am. I can sing songs like: sting "shape of my ... A: Craig, Thank you for your question - sorry it took so long to get back to you as I was traveling ...
Arrangements for Saxophone Trio	8/9/2006
Q: A couple of friends and I recently started a saxophone trio and have just bought "The Lone Ar-Ranger ... A: A Sax trio is a bit unusual (that's a good thing -- but it does make it hard to find arrangements). ...
Song Construction	5/23/2006
Q: My music theory knowledge is pitiful to say the least but it is something i am in the process of ... A: <<its in the kety of E but what chords or progressions do i use to construct the verses and chorus ...
non chord tones	4/25/2006
Q: I was surfing the web and stumbled upon your web site and wondered if you could answer a nagging ... A: Joe, Thanks for your question. In contemporary pop music, there is only one true suspended chord, ...
seven elements of music	3/29/2006
Q: I am just learning about music and the different elements and I am interested in finding a piece of ... A: <<I am just learning about music and the different elements and I am interested in finding a piece ...
Composition Technique	3/23/2006
Q: i've been studying composition. One of my favorite composers is Bach. I was wondering do you know ... A: Chris, <<One of my favorite composers is Bach. I was wondering do you know exactly what were his ...
Arranging Studio Productions.	3/22/2006
Q: I am a young music producer specializing in many genres of music. The ability to make music came to ... A: << I want to know exactly what I am doing that is right. I do not have any formal education in ...
Production and Formulas	3/10/2006
Q: Bill, I've got two questions for you: 1. My recordings sound empty. I've been recording songs ... A: Hans, Thanks for your question. I've got two questions for you: << My recordings sound empty. ...
What makes a song last?	3/7/2006
Q: (This is a school project. The answer can be technical or your expert opinion--anything!) What is it ... A: Kyla, Thanks for your questions. <<Are there elements that these enduring songs and artists have ...
hooks & bridges	2/23/2006
Q: I am recording a song and have a problem with the bridge a) in the prehook I already made a jump ... A: <<I am recording a song and have a problem with the bridge a) in the prehook I already made a jump ...
advice regarding composing music for lyrics	2/13/2006
Q: I wanted to know whether composing music for lyrics had anything to do with the syllables and metre ... A: Jibran, Thanks for your question. This is an important area. << I wanted to know whether ...
Song structure & lyrics	2/8/2006
Q: metaphor, rhyming techniques and song structure which you have expertise on. Many Thanks David ... A: << i was interested in improving my lyric writing and song composition and would be grateful if you ...
hello	2/2/2006
Q: hello i wonderd if you could give me adivce on singing i dont go to no singing lessons but people ... A: Jessica, Thanks for your question -- The best thing for you to do depends on your goals. You ...
Music Theory: Tied notes	2/2/2006
Q: Please clarify the rule(s) regarding tied notes. In several measures of a popular music piece I've ... A: <<Do I play the tied eigth note? This may seem silly, but I was taught to hold notes that are tied ...
contest	1/28/2006
Q: Bill I heard that entering a song contest can be a good way to get exposure. I also heard to watch ... A: <<I heard that entering a song contest can be a good way to get exposure. I also heard to watch ...
Common Practice Period	1/17/2006
Q: In part writing, why can't you use parallel fifths or parallel octaves when writing in the common ... A: Melissa, Hi - thanks for your question. The simple answer is that there actually no reason that ...
Lyrics	1/16/2006
Q: My brother writes amazing poems (Lyrics) which he has been told would be perfect for songs. I would ... A: << My brother writes amazing poems (Lyrics) which he has been told would be perfect for songs. I ...
Transposing lyrics to a different language	12/30/2005
Q: Recently transposed lyrics written by Roberto Carlos in Portuguese to English. Should I register my ... A: <<Recently transposed lyrics written by Roberto Carlos in Portuguese to English. Should I register ...
song writing steps	11/22/2005
Q: I would like to be able to follow a list of steps to keep in mind for songwriting. Would you have ... A: Andrew, Thanks for your question. There are indeed specific steps to follow when writing a song, ...
songwriting	11/12/2005
Q: How do I make effective key changes? Do I just change to any key I want whenever I want or are ... A: <<How do I make effective key changes? Do I just change to any key I want whenever I want or are ...
Are there areas of knowledge in music theory that can significantly help the individual songwriting process for small groups.	10/24/2005
Q: BACKGROUND INFO: My long held belief or approach has been instinctive and as honest to my own ... A: <<The process of writing music on my own is so foreign to me. Writing on my own has been very slow ...
finding compositions	10/18/2005
Q: I would like to firstly say what an honuor it is to be writing to a man such as yourself. I would ... A: Lawrence, Thank you for your question. There are many sources of music on the internet for ...
writting lyrics	10/10/2005
Q: can you recommend a book that could teach about metaphor and rhyme schemes, I feel my lyrics are ... A: <<can you recommend a book that could teach about metaphor and rhyme schemes, I feel my lyrics are ...
Lyrics composition	10/5/2005
Q: I'm trying to create emo/rock music, but not in the typical pop-punk manner. How can I create good, ... A: <<What I want is: Splintered piece of glass falls, in the seat, gets caught These broken windows, ...
songwriting, and the history of it	10/4/2005
Q: what are some of the technical structures to songwriting and composing that are most common and what ... A: <<what are some of the technical structures to songwriting and composing that are most common and ...
keyboard arrangement	9/27/2005
Q: How does one start teaching oneself how to play keyboard with a band? since most pop music is ... A: <<How does one start teaching oneself how to play keyboard with a band? >> Ky-Van Thanks for your ...
composition	9/26/2005
Q: can you recommend an online resource to help me teach composition to a group of young people on a ... A: Robbie. Writing good contemporary songs (music or lyrics) is generally more complex than people ...
writing a song	9/22/2005
Q: i need really good ideas on how to right a really good rock song that sells i don't want it to be ... A: Gretch, Thanks for your question. Writing a really good song in any genre is very difficult -- if ...
Musical Forms	9/13/2005
Q: Do you know where I could find a complete list of the musical forms and their definitions and ... A: James, Thanks for your question. It is unlikely that you would find one single listing of ALL ...
Music theory for songwriting guitarist	8/29/2005
Q: I am a highschool senior that has a Christian rock band. I play electric guitar and sing. My band ... A: Joel, Hi -- thanks for your question. There is not one single book that will give you all the ...
My granddaughter is taking...	8/26/2005
Q: My granddaughter is taking band at school and was instructed to find the 4 aspects of music 1 being ... A: <<My granddaughter is taking band at school and was instructed to find the 4 aspects of music 1 ...
Promotion of your songs	8/18/2005
Q: How does anyone get that newly written songs out to potential performers/band or their publisher. Is ... A: << How does anyone get that newly written songs out to potential performers/band or their publisher. ...
Defining a fee (compensation) for singing at a music festival	8/10/2005
Q: What are a few methods which a singer can use to estimate the fee she should charge for singing at a ... A: <<What are a few methods which a singer can use to estimate the fee she should charge for singing at ...
psychological history of music....	7/27/2005
Q: basically what i want to write about in a paper im doing is: the psychological history of acoustic ... A: Steph, Thanks for your question -- this is an interesting topic. I would love to read a copy of ...
Music	7/27/2005
Q: I have always wanted to write and play songs that are in my head, but have no musical training ... A: Mike THanks for your question. <<What would be the easiest way for me to begin to learn how to ...
Inspiration	7/3/2005
Q: What do you use to inspire you to write music and is it bad that it sometimes sounds like something ... A: <<What do you use to inspire you to write music and is it bad that it sometimes sounds like ...
Help! Music is too cluttered? Organization?	6/28/2005
Q: I am relatively new composing, and with that said I may not know or understand what to call certain ... A: Elizabeth, Thanks for your question. Lots of folks ask about this. There really is no right or ...
who sang	6/27/2005
Q: what group sang the song "JOEY" in the early 90's A: Marianne, Thanks for your question. <<what group sang the song "JOEY" in the early 90's>> Since ...
Orchestra	6/19/2005
Q: I was just wondering if you know how i can go about starting my own orchestra? Thanks -mike A: Mike, Thanks for your question - There is no quick simple answer for this as there are many ...
MUSICAL COMPOSITION	6/13/2005
Q: im jonathan from peru, my question is aobut muscical composition, i know about, intervals and scales ... A: Jonathan, Thanks for your question. There are no absolute rules for composing music -- just ...
musical composition, theory, songwriting, and singing	6/13/2005
Q: ok. i have this book of poetry that i have been carrying around with me for about 7 months now, and ... A: Sarah, Thanks for your follow up question. <<Do you have any advice on turning emotional poetry ...
basic harmony	5/24/2005
Q: Just want to know this. Say you've got G major. The tonic is your most important. Fifth comes ... A: <<These are the primary chords. But now what? what's next? If V's the leading, dominant chord, IV's ...
Song Writer	5/20/2005
Q: I learn how to play piano by myself and I interesting in writing my own song one day. I would like ... A: Andy, Thanks for your question. When writing a song, the most important thing is that the words ...
composing Rock	5/5/2005
Q: I have a hard time composing a structure of a song. like the rythem. i have great ideas i could ... A: Valeriy, Thanks for your question. There are many people who have trouble with exactly the same ...
Melody Writing & Chord Progression	5/2/2005
Q: How would one go upon writting a melody. And, how would i come up with a chord progression. I know ... A: Anthony, Thanks for your question. There are two basic ways to approach this type of task -- ...
Writing a Compostion from scratch	4/19/2005
Q: I have to write a two-three page musical compostition. The peramiters of the piece are that I must ... A: <<Would you advise starting with the piano chords and building the melody around that? What is the ...
composition?	3/31/2005
Q: my names penny, and i'm in year 10 (Darwin, NT, Australia). i've been playing drums for a few years, ... A: Penny, Thanks for your question. Keep in mind that there are two major components to a song -- ...
composing/arranging fees	3/22/2005
Q: I have a small project studio where I do mostly demos and live recordings for local artists. I ... A: CJ, Thanks for your question -- it is not an uncommon situation, but it does have specific ways to ...
Question about 2 "negative" lines in a song of mine	3/17/2005
Q: Bill: My wife and I have been having 180 degree difference about 2 line parts in the chorus of a ... A: Bill, I understand what you are saying and it is sincere, but I do agree with your wife that there ...
symphony movements	2/22/2005
Q: what are the four movements in a symphony? A: Normally, there are four movements in a symphony, but there are some that consist of two, three, or ...
song writing	2/13/2005
Q: i am just curious. do we start writing the lyrics first or the rymthm? A: jie xin, Thank you for your question. The most important thing to remember is that words have ...
natural accents- lyrics and melody	2/10/2005
Q: I took a songwrting class and am now trying to improve my craft. I have a tough time when faced with ... A: Sara, thanks for your question -- it is one of my favorite topics and a question that lots of folks ...
Composition	1/28/2005
Q: I have started innumerable pieces, ranging from songs to symphonies to jazz band concertos, but, ... A: Phillip, Thanks for your question. This is not an uncommon situation. Finishing pieces is not a ...
principles in songwriting ...	1/28/2005
Q: principles in songwriting A: Grace, If you are interested in principles of songwriting, use the following references: The Craft ...
Timing	1/21/2005
Q: Is there such a thing as 5/5 time. If so, what note gets what beat? Thank you so much. Beck A: <<Is there such a thing as 5/5 time. If so, what note gets what beat? >> Beck, Thanks for your ...
basic techniques on pop composition	1/20/2005
Q: i need your help.. i want to know anything about composition specifically pop song.. im a music ... A: Karen, Hi -- thanks for your question. I'm glad to hear you want to teach your students about pop ...
Having trouble	1/15/2005
Q: I have been a writer for over 20 years I Write in poetry form, But I want to be a Songwriter I have ... A: Lisa, Thanks for your question. There is no one single answer to what you are asking, but here are ...
Song Composition	1/11/2005
Q: I've written lyrics to a song and I have an idea of what I want the song to be, but I can't seem to ... A: <<I've written lyrics to a song and I have an idea of what I want the song to be, but I can't seem ...
Using others music	1/10/2005
Q: How do I find out whether a composition is public domain or copyrighted. How do I find out if ... A: <<How do I find out whether a composition is public domain or copyrighted. How do I find out if ...
Random notes vs. scale patterns in guitar solos	12/10/2004
Q: I'm always challenged when it comes to writing a guitar solo for a song. I write mostly 70's-80's ... A: thye quick answer is that if it sounds okay to your ear, then use it. The pentatonic scale is a ...
Hi! I'm 18 and recently finished...	12/9/2004
Q: I'm 18 and recently finished composing a three-movement unaccompanied flute solo. I was planning on ... A: Morgan, Hi, thanks for your question. In this day and age, it doesn't really matter too much what ...
Film Music	12/3/2004
Q: Good morning. As part of my A-Level in Music I have opted to specialise in composition. I have ... A: Thoma, Thanks for your question. What you are asking is very broad and does not lend itself to a ...
I am studying fingerstyle...	11/26/2004
Q: I am studying fingerstyle jazz guitar, with the old standards as a main interest.My focus is on ... A: I couldn't say if there's a particular book that is better than any other as far as technique goes, ...
composition tips!	10/28/2004
Q: I'm interested in starting my very first composition. I would like to write a short operetta, but ... A: Meghan, Thanks for your question and I'm glad to hear you are going to enter the world of ...
Writing lyrics	10/16/2004
Q: I've tried to write lyrics, but there is something missing from them. I think that I find it hard ... A: Chris, Thanks for your question. By realizing that metaphor and rhyme are important, and by ...
Composition	10/6/2004
Q: Here is some more detailed info that can help you answer my question. Sorry I didn't send it the ... A: Scott, <<I have written many pieces but seem to struggle with finishing them. I also have a ton ...
Composition	10/3/2004
Q: I am a senior in high school and have been writing music for 3 years now. I would like to know what ... A: Scott, Thanks for your question -- the best answer for you depends on your specific goals, and the ...
question about music	9/21/2004
Q: I feel very imbarased to be asking this kind of question however, you dont know me and so ill ask ... A: Joshua Thanks for your question. THere are many others in similar situations. It is possible to ...
Slight Writing Problem	9/12/2004
Q: Hey mate! I have composed a peice of music for the piano and it is rather complex. I have worked out ... A: Lee, Thanks for your question. In the absence of seeing or hearing the music, I'm not sure what you ...
music	7/25/2004
Q: Do you have any suggestions as to how I can get better at conducting(how I can figure out if song's ... A: Pat, Thanks for your question. To tell if a song is in duple or triple (tuple) meter, you have to ...
Accounting For Taste	7/13/2004
Q: What subconscious or physiological component differentiates consonance from dissonance? A: Shayde This is a great question -- what prompts you to ask ? (you can respond direct to my e-mail ...
how to sing higher notes?	7/12/2004
Q: i have some questions about singing to ask you.. when i sing a song along with the music..like clay ... A: Jack, Thanks for your question. What you describe is not unusual. Every voice has its own range, ...
musical composition	7/7/2004
Q: the question concerns to almost any style of music i guess. but i concerned here more about rock or ... A: <<how can i give my music the sense that it is MOVING? like passing from a stage of tranquility to a ...
writing	6/21/2004
Q: I enjoy listning to rock music like Metallica, Yes Queen ,Pink Floyd, Led Zep but i can't write ... A: Sam, You're asking a pretty big question, but I'll try to give you some direction: In general, the ...
Song Critique	6/11/2004
Q: I have a few songs I would like to get critiqued I have them in MP3 format do you know where I can ... A: Don, Thank you for your question. The fact that you are aware of the value of objective critique ...
Composition	5/23/2004
Q: well, I am trying to write a requiem, somewhat like Rutter's requiem, which I really liked the style ... A: Howard, Thanks for your question. Both my wife and I have directed church choirs. Since you ...
range	5/6/2004
Q: how to know that i am a bass,baritone or middle tenor or tenor?...i know there's a way to try by ... A: Jack, You can check against an instrument but you still have to have a knowledgeable person tell ...
range things	5/5/2004
Q: your answer is damn fast, i have to say...thanks! as a guy, i can sing songs performed by female ... A: elrohir, There is usually some overlap of male and female ranges. When you are sing, whether it's ...
everyone has their own range of voice?	5/5/2004
Q: .i like to sing so much,but i have a problem, and i don't understand it.. for example,i sing 'if ... A: Elrohir, Thanks for your question. Yes, everyone has their own range, and any song you sing must ...
singing	4/29/2004
Q: im searching for a practise method that is best suited for a beginning vocalist. The last 2 years ... A: Dan, Thanks for your question. Singing along with the radio is a good exercise, but you will need ...
Degree in Music Comp.	4/28/2004
Q: What kind of jobs could one get after earning a degree in musical composition? Is it hard to find a ... A: Matt, Thank you or your question. Assuming you don't want to teach, there is really no such thing ...
music composition in general	3/29/2004
Q: im doing a research paper on music composition, and i need webpages, do you have any ... A: Kristen, Thanks for your question. Since I don;t know exactly what your paper is about, I can;t ...
Getting "Midi" plus "words" downloads, free.	3/25/2004
Q: What web sites give "Midi" plus "words" downloads, free? Thanks, Bill A: Bill, I'm not sure if you mean SMF (standars midi files) and separate files for song lyrics, or ...
arranging	3/15/2004
Q: can you give me any tips on arranging a song from start to finish. Im finding the right sounds for ... A: Daniel, Arranging is a huge topic, far more than can be summarized in this small space. If you ...
pronounciation and posture	3/3/2004
Q: This might be a first for you. First of all I am a beginner. I have played live for bar crowds ... A: Greg, I am familiar with the artists you mention. If it is the nasal quality you dislike, that ...
pronounciation and posture	3/3/2004
Q: This might be a first for you. First of all I am a beginner. I have played live for bar crowds ... A: My wife is a vocal instructor and has worked with people who have various types of physical issues. ...
I'm interested in creating...	2/18/2004
Q: I'm interested in creating digital pop/experimental music. I don't really play any instrument ... A: Marie: Thanks for your question. I've done a great deal of digital music and worked with many ...
using music as metaphor	2/12/2004
Q: I came across this site while doing research on 'musical composition'.I am writing a poem in which I ... A: Marta, Thanks for your question -- interesting topic. Sheila Davis has done a lot of work on music ...
Brian Wilson	2/11/2004
Q: Here is some questions to change you. I am having some trouble with some things about BareNaked ... A: Matthew Thank you for your question. In order to answer what you are asking, I would need to have ...
songwriting	2/1/2004
Q: I write song lyrics. The problem is I have no experience with music. And I have no one around me ... A: I work with many folks who just write lyrics, and have someone else do the music, and it is a very ...
Songwriting	1/15/2004
Q: May I firstly say that I couldn't believe my luck when I found this site. This is just the thing I ... A: Sean, Thanks for your question. You're asking about the essence of good songwriting. A ...
key changes and song structure	1/4/2004
Q: chorus,verse or some other part of the song? Also do you know any good books(beyond basic level)on ... A: Mike. Thanks for your question. Key changes usually are most effective in three cases : 1 -- ...
Hi ! My name is Xavier...	1/3/2004
Q: My name is Xavier from France, I played the guitar for something like 10 years now and I would like ... A: Xavier, Thak you for your question. You are correct that songwriting is a very different process ...

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Musical Composition, Theory and Songwriting

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Bill Pere

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Expertise

Can answer questions on : Technical aspects of lyric and music compostion; How to give and receive objective critique; Arranging and production; Concrete vs abstract imagery; Use of metaphor; Rhyme techniques; Song Structure; Collaboration; Songwriter Associations; Promotion; Guitar technique; Music Business;

Experience

Grammy-nominated songwriter; President of the Connecticut Songwriters Association and Director of the Connecticut Songwriting Academy; Named one of the Top 50 Innovators and Guiding Lights of the Music Industry in 2008 by Music Connection Magazine; Author of "Songcrafters' Coloring Book:The Essential Guide to Effective and Successful Songwriting." Named Independent Artist of the Year,by the 2003 national Independent Music Conference; 30 years as a professional singer-songwriter; 16 original CD's released;
Have had songs placed on other artists' CD's. Twice named Connecticut Songwriter of the Year.
20 years as Executive Director of the LUNCH Ensemble. Have attended more than 200 presentations by top industry professionals and have critiqued thousands of songs. Have written and produced dozens of stage plays and hundreds of concert events; Have coached hundreds of aspiring songwriters, and collaborated with several award winning writers. Have written commissioned songs as an Official Connecticut State Troubadour. Music Director of youth choirs and music camps.

Organizations
Connecticut Songwriters Association (President); LUNCH Ensemble (Local United Network to Combat Hunger -- Exec, Director); CMEA (Connecticut Music Educators Association); Folk Alliance; Association For Psychological Type; Songsalive; WE R Indie; Creative Songwriting Academy;

Publications
Songcrafters' Coloring Book: The Essential Guide to Effective and Succesful Songwriting Songwriters Market (2001, 2002); Connecticut Songsmith; Contemporary Songwriter Magazine; Songwriters Musepaper;
Songcrafter's Coloring Book; Strategies for Teaching Guitar;

Education/Credentials
Masters Degree Molecular Biology; Certified MBTI Practitioner (Myers Briggs Type Indicator); Connecticut Secondary Public School Teaching Certificate; Author: "Songcrafters' Coloring Book: The Essential Guide to Effective and Successful Songwriting"

Awards and Honors
2012 Grammy nomination; Named one of the Top 50 Innovators and Guiding Lights of the Music Industry in 2008 by Music Connection Magazine; Independent Artist of the Year, (2003 national Indie Conference); Official Connecticut State Troubadour, appointed by CT Commission on the Arts, 1995 ; 1982 and 1992 CT Songwriter of the Year; 2000 Award for 20 years of Outstanding Service to Songwriters;
2002 CSA Award for Outstanding Contribution to Education through Music; Numerous awards for outstanding community outreach through music; 1997 Citation from Connecticut Legislature for exemplary dedication to community outreach through music. 1995 Renaissance Award for multiple music achievements in a single year. Invited Presenter and Mentor at various Music Conventions

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