PIANIST LEARNS THE SKILLS OF SONGWRITING & PRODUCTION THROUGH SPIRITUAL SONG

What began as a class midterm project became my first step towards a career of song writing and arranging. I made an arrangement of “Joseph Smith’s First Prayer” because I wanted to make a musical depiction of what Joseph’s experience might have been like praying in the Sacred Grove. After completing the midterm project, I continued to develop an understanding of professional music notation software and interviewed successful song writers/editors to learn how to format and prepare my score for publishing. I performed my arrangement multiple times over the summer and felt inspired to make a music video so more people can enjoy and want to purchase my music! I worked with a recording specialist, learned how to direct a videographer, and served as an executive producer to create my music video. Now my video is being watched by many on YouTube and some have already asked to buy my music! These are experiences I wouldn’t expect to have as a student. I’ve gained more confidence in composing and want to make enough hymn arrangements to compile a book by the time I graduate in 2 years.