Five benefits of the Songwriting Process

Over the last six years, we've discovered some amazing breakthroughs when running songwriting workshops, and we feel so grateful and humbled to be able to offer this service.
Writing songs brings huge benefits, and especially so for young people. 
So why is that? Keep reading...

1. Explore creativity
In many school subjects, for instance, maths and science, the answers given are either right or wrong, with very little in between. 
Writing a song is subjective, the process of coming up with ideas and taking risks without judgement or scrutiny is a massively liberating experience.

2. Work together 
Being able to discuss, share and bounce ideas off others is a great way for young people to feel part of something bigger. It brings in aspects of problem solving; (is there enough syllables in that line?) contributing; (you can write the lyrics and we can write the melody) and debate; (let's vote on which chorus to choose).

3. Express feelings
Songwriting provides an outlet for our feelings, and sometimes it's easier to sing about feelings than to say them. Writing a song is a way of working through both the positive and negative sides of our emotions. Yes, the words might not come easily all the time, but specifically singing about our passions is a very therapeutic experience.

4. Have a sense of accomplishment 
Being proud of what you've created brings an enormous sense of joy. This leaves a lasting effect on us and the people around us. There is the additional bonus of having ownership of your song and being able to share it with friends and family.

5. Grow in confidence 
The four points mentioned above all contribute to improving confidence and self esteem through songwriting. The process will often begin with feelings of nervousness in young people, as the idea of writing a song can be a scary prospect at first, but whether it be lyric, melody or music writing, young people are able to uncover their strengths, and feel proud of what they have created.

Writing a song is not about being the best, neither is it about being the first to finish the song. It's about the journey, the ideas that were thought of, collaborations made, thoughts realised, and ultimately the overarching feeling of happiness from creating a unique piece of art.

The aim in our ActuallyAmy Songwriting workshops is to help young people realise that in the songwriting process they can take risks, accept their individuality and watch the flow of creativity happen.

We are currently taking bookings for summer 2017! 
Our workshops are for youth groups, theatre groups, church holiday clubs, birthday celebrations or private sessions. We aim to tailor the time to your requirements and give you a day full of fun and expression without judgement.

If you like the sound of what we have to offer then please get feel free to get in touch.
Contact Amy on 07919525893 or info@actuallyamy.co.uk.

Much love

How does music help children with special educational needs?

Music is universal and should be made accessible to every child, regardless of disability. Children with special needs find it hard to communicate and relate to others, so learning an instrument or being encouraged to sing gives them an alternative way to connect with others. For instance, ‘improvising’ or making up tunes with another person on a piano is similar to the back and forth nature of social interaction.

Singing promotes learning in children. It improves their sense of rhythm, motivates and empowers them and provides comfort. Repetition and familiarity are strong latches for children, and especially for children with learning disabilities because they find it harder to undertake every day tasks.   

For instance, an autistic child will find it hard to communicate or relate to other people on a day-to-day basis. Learning an instrument can give them a focus, a creative outlet and a way to express themselves.  It may also give them something in common with someone that they are finding it difficult to relate to.

Getting to know nursery rhymes and lullabies from a very early age are important. It gives children with special needs a sense of belonging and well being. This can help them participate in a class with other children and can prevent them from feeling alienated.

Each time a child finishes a creative project; it gives a strong sense of achievement, taking pride in their new skill by playing or singing to family and friends. For a child with special needs, the therapeutic benefits are much more prominent. Music therapy is a popular way of breaking down boundaries and overcoming difficulties for children with special needs; it helps to improve speech, cognitive development and communication. For example, it develops the creative right side of the brain, which can contribute to a child’s ability to develop creatively in other areas of their life.

As seen above, there are many benefits to learning through music. Ultimately, music is a positive influence for children; it encourages a sense of fun and can be an enjoyable way to for a child to develop personally and socially.