You have probably heard of Taylor Swift or Bob Dylan, both lyrical geniuses that transformed the musical world. However, I’m guessing you don’t know the masterful composers of songs here at Yorktown. The songwriting club combines all the talent that Yorktown offers by using a variety of instruments to create different songs.
The club was started by Daniel Johnson, who hoped to use it as a tool to create and finish songs with other people. As president, he typically leads meetings by steering group discussions about songs and during the group jam session. Johnson’s main instrument is the piano which he uses to guide the musical aspect of the club during times where the club is improvising.
While the club does play in a large group at points, they also work individually to delve into the qualities of a song. They may specifically focus on aspects like lyrics or tone. Many students have musical knowledge of multiple instruments that helps them improvise while they are playing as a group or in pairs. One member, Mathieu Mercer, likes to play the piano but isn’t exclusive to only one or two instruments.
“I play a lot of instruments, guitar, bass, double bass, and drums. Anything I can get my hands on I try and play,” Mercer stated.
This is especially important when it comes to writing songs. Often there is a missing section to a song that songwriters need help piecing together. This is where the club comes in to aid in finding the perfect chord or lyrics to finish the song. Sometimes all the song needs is a new drum beat or an extra piano riff to complete it.
Songwriters know that finishing a song can be one of the most difficult parts of the process. However, Johnson acknowledges that being in a song rut is completely normal for even the best artists in the business.
“If you are struggling to come up with ideas, just wait. If you try to force music, you make bad music. Let it come naturally and if it doesn’t come that’s ok.” Johnson stated.
Songwriting is obviously a huge part of the club, however, the club doesn’t only critique new original songs but also famous works of artists that we hear every day. They go deeper into what they like about the song and try to incorporate these things into their own songs.
“We dig into what they use in that song including the words of the song and the musicality of the song,” Mercer said.
Members draw inspiration from many artists like Stevie Wonder and the rock band OneRepublic. While the club has a diverse listening collection, the community of the club is what unites them. The club provides a unique space for people who are passionate about music and to share their talents in collaboration.
Finn Sutter, another member, plays cello and guitar among other instruments, and notes the support system this club provides.
“People are here to support you and guide you on your songwriting journey. They give you feedback and not say ‘oh this sucks,’ but this is what you need to work on,” Sutter said.
The club doesn’t take a strict, serious route. Instead they let the songwriting process flow naturally. Sometimes, this comes in the form of making silly songs.
“We made a song that was an allegory for a guy from the south. The song is called “My Girlfriend Is A Truck” and the entire song is vague statements that could be about a truck or could also be about a girl.” Mercer recalled.
This strong spirit of creativity and community strikes a unique chord in the onset of the numerous clubs that students can join at Yorktown. The songwriting club provides opportunities for students to grow in their passion and build friendships.
