Writing Music

[Andrew.Glose]

Hey Janek,

I'm curious. When you write your own music, do you write it using the bass guitar? Or do you sit down at a piano to figure out your changes?

I mostly write with the bass, which works, for the majority of what I want to express, but a while ago, I was informed of the difference in chords vs scales. Until then, I was being more scale based, which doesn't always translate well...

I'm interested to hear about your writing process.

Andrew

PS: What does 'p.k' and 'a.m.s.k' stand for?

[johncg]

Good question. I'm looking forward to Janek's answer.

I recently read that Victor likes to compose with his bass because it causes you to think about the bigger picture more...

[Sorax]

Originally Posted by johncg

I recently read that Victor likes to compose with his bass because it causes you to think about the bigger picture more...

I would've said the opposite! Composing on piano makes me think about the picture more, particularly in terms of hearing harmony.

[janekbass]

I tend to compose most melodies away from any instrument. It's generally an idea that comes to me when I'm not shedding or playing, and then i'll get to whatever instrument is available to develop the idea.

I do use the bass a great deal for all kinds of compositional things. It's the instrument I feel the most comfortable with. I used to sit down at the piano a lot too, but I don't have one in NYC so it's mainly the bass now. I don't think it matters which instrument you use to compose with. The actual composition should be coming from you and not the instrument, so the instrument is just a vehicle so sound your ideas.


Easy,

Janek