EXPRESS YOURSELF THROUGH SONG
A SONGWRITING SHOWCASE FOR SCHOOLS
This is a session that I have developed specially for primary school children and have now performed successfully at a number of schools in Essex.
It is a one hour session aimed at a single class, during which I perform a variety of songs to demonstrate different styles and types of song, use of lyrics and rhythm to express thoughts and feelings. The songs are accompanied on guitar, some unaccompanied and also with banjo which always sparks some interest.
I choose songs that I have written on unusual topics (eg: a refrigerator) to open the children's minds to inspiration from ANY source. There is an emphasis on humour (in particular irony) as a tool for making a serious point in an entertaining way and some songs have a strong environmental message to provoke discussion.
The children are invited to ask questions and comment on what they hear and to join in choruses as much as possible and we try to make up words for a song during the class.
The session, geared not so much as a workshop but more as an inspirational springboard, provides a rare opportunity to listen to and discuss ideas with a real, live musician. In an era of mass produced, faceless writers and fewer instrumental performers it gives the children something they simply will not experience at home or school
I leave a CD with the teacher containing all the songs and lyric sheets so that reference can be made in future lessons. Some classes have even gone on to perform the songs themselves which is most flattering.
To find out more and receive an information pack including a demo CD containing snippets of the songs, please e-mail me at tony.winn@btinternet.com
What the teachers say:-
"Tony's songwriting workshops provide a fantastic opportunity for the children to experience live music. His songs have a real resonance with the children and have inspired them to write their own songs. The children greatly enjoyed their time with Tony and left the hall singing his amusing and thought provoking songs" - Jane Cloke, Music Co-ordinator, Langenhoe Community Primary School
"In an age of faceless, anonymous songwriters and a
lack of perfuming musicians, Tony Winn's songwriting workshops represent a
fantastic (and affordable) opportunity for children to experience a live
performance. Tony's unique songwriting encompasses many subject areas
which the children can relate to. His discussions on the craft of
songwriting are insightful and he offers some encouraging advice for
young, aspiring composers. The children benefited greatly from their
session with Tony and went on to compose their own songs full of
inspiration and enthusiasm."
Steven Turnbull, Music Co-ordinator, North Primary School and Nursery,
Colchester
