This topic, divided into four stages, is a walk-through of the way successful writers often work when arranging a song for a client (or themselves). There are variations to this process, but the bottom line is that you can’t begin copying or extracting the parts until the melodic rhythm and key are decided. In time, you will develop your own procedures for writing, as well. Efficiency in your working time is very important. This is especially true in the commercial world, when deadlines are tight and truly, “time is money.”
While reading through this topic, you will find some references to writing by hand—still my preferred method of working. These references can easily be transferred to mouse clicks!
Lead Sheet Stage (basic harmony and melody to be used)
1. Don’t be afraid to listen to previous recordings of the chosen song for stylistic possibilities.
2. Decide on the style to be used.
3. Acquire a lead sheet. If no lead sheet is available you may have to transcribe a previous version to get a foundation for your melody and harmony first. Then:
1. Reharmonize (use new chords) if appropriate to the style.
2. Rewrite melody in the new style and meter. Most lead sheets are include only a basic version of the melody and harmony.
3. Settle on a basic tempo.
4. Determine the form that you wish to use. This will depend greatly on the media that this will be written for (see last week’s post).
5. Think about what instrument(s) you want to play the melody, and make notations on the lead sheet as to what instrument and where (”A” section, who plays the melody; “B” section, who plays the melody etc.). Notes as to possible harmonization points can also be made at this time.
6. If necessary, transpose the melody and chords from the rewritten lead sheet into a key that will best suit the vocalist and other instruments that you’ve chosen.
In my next post I’ll talk about the next stage - sketching the musical idea. This is typically the most difficult part of the whole process of writing. Until then…
Jerry
A typical instrumental lead sheet.“Foggy Day” Lead Sheet
