NOTES:
I originally wanted to create a jazz composition but then Ms Harskuti introduced the idea of the 12 bar blues chord progression and I really wanted to try it out. I then watched YoutTube videos teaching the chord progression, showing how to make intros and outros, and how to create blues compositions in general. I also listened to songs like “heartbreak hotel” by Elvis and “Beale Street”, and songs from Muddy Waters, and used that as inspiration. My composition is a blues song on the piano with singing. It’s called “Keep on Playin’”.

The structure follows the classic 12 bar blues chord progression, with the chords 1, 4 & 5. (1111 —> 4411 —> 5411). I created two main parts (two verses), each with three lines. The first and second lines in each part are similar with slight variations and the third lines in is different, finishing the section. Both verses are contrasting to each other. I also made and intro, outro, and bridge to connect each section. The intro and outro both have a segment of the main melody accompanied by chords, played on the piano. In the two main parts the melody is sung and accompanied by the chords of the 12 bar blues chord progression. The bridge is made up of only chords, Connie both verses. I use different voices, one for the piano melody and one for the sung melody to add variety.

I didn’t use any computer programs. I composed the entire piece on the piano by trying out different melodies (with a lot of trial and error). After I came up with my melody, I moved on to writing the lyrics and building the intro, outro, and bridge. Originally Antonia was going to sing but after we recorded everything I had to change key parts of the lyrics again to make them suit the melody better, so I ended up singing it in the end. I then put everything together, practiced it, and recorded the song using my phone.

I am really proud of this composition. I think it turned out well, and I enjoyed the process. I learned a lot about how blues compositions are made, like using the 12 bar blues chord progression, creating different sections (intro/outro/ bridge), and writing lyrics. It definitely took a lot of trial and error, and there were a few challenges along the way, like going through multiple versions of lyrics (4 different versions in total) and figuring out who should sing. But I was able to solve these problems by testing different things out, making changes, and re-recording the piece when needed. I had a lot of fun making it and it taught about the many stages a composition goes through before it’s done 🙂