July’s theme is ‘MUSIC’
Whether we're singing, dancing, listening to our MP3 tracks, watching a film or in a shop – music plays a large part in our everyday lives.
- What kind of music do you like? Example: rock, blues, classical, pop etc.
Music can tell its own story and be used to enhance the story being told. In a film music can help create a mood. Example: a romance will be enhanced with moving, romantic songs. It can also set a scene. Example: a film whose story is set in the 1960s will be enhanced by a soundtrack of music from that era. Music is also used in TV adverts, dramas and documentaries in similar ways.
- Watch a film (or TV programme) & pay attention to the music - how does it affect your viewing of the film/programme?
- Have you got a favourite movie soundtrack (e.g. Mamma Mia) or a TV theme tune (e.g. Eastenders theme tune) that you enjoy? Write and tell us why you like it.
Music’s role in telling a story is especially obvious in musical theatre.
- Have you been to see any musicals? Examples: Mary Poppins, Sound of Music or Grease. Write and tell us what you liked/disliked.
- Have you taken part in a school production that involved singing/music? Write about these experiences.
Are you part of a school choir, band, orchestra or musical theatre group?
- Write about your experience of performing, review a concert you have attended or even write your own song/play.
Famous musicians, bands & singers have their own interesting stories to tell.
- Try writing about: famous musicians in history such as Beethoven or The Beatles. Or write about your current favourite band/singer.
- Use your imagination to write about a fictional musician/singer/band. Maybe you could imagine what it would be like if you were a famous musician.
Every country has a National Anthem – a song that is unique to their country. This anthem is often used at international sporting events and played on the winner’s podium.
The English national anthem starts like this:
God save our gracious Queen,
Long live our noble Queen,
God save the Queen!
Send her victorious,
Happy and glorious,
Long to reign over us;
God save the Queen!
You could try to write an anthem for your school or write a new football supporters song.
Writers often use music: to create an atmosphere in which to write, set a scene, for inspiration or to relax and get in the right mood. Some prefer to listen to music without lyrics and others are inspired by the lyrics of their favourite bands.
- Try writing whilst listening to different songs/tunes. Try changing the sort of music and see how it affects your writing.
Song writers create lyrics that compliment a melody.
- Why not try & write lyrics to a piece of music you like listening to. Email us your writing & let us know what music you were listening to whilst you wrote.
- Maybe you could write a review of a song/melody. Consider the following: How does the music make you feel? What kind of rhythm does it have (fast/slow etc.)? Is the music sad or happy? What do you think of the lyrics? What story is being told?
The theme of ‘MUSIC’ can inspire many writing ideas. We look forward to reading your writing! Send all your music inspired writing to bodminbookworm@aol.com .
