I think we might be expecting quite a number of new friends this Friday.
So just to assuages any fears or uncertainties, here’s a little FAQ to let everyone know a bit more about how we usually conduct our sessions:
Q: How is the session conducted?
A: It’s free & easy, something like an “open mic” concept. Anyone is free to come up and present his/her songs to the group. (Usually no one likes to go first, so I always have to be the sacrificial lamb.)
Q: What happens when someone goes up to present?
A: Well, when you go up to present, you perform your song first, then after that you can tell us more about how you came up with the song, what your inspirations were, why this song is special to you, etc. Then the rest will usually chip in and express their impressions & opinions on the song - what our general impressions are, what we like about the song, how we think it could be enhanced, whether it reminds us of any other kind of song, etc. Basically it’s a great way of getting feedback and critique on your song. That’s one way we can improve as songwriters.
Q: What if the criticism I get from the group is so harsh I never want to write a song anymore?
A: Don’t worry. We’re known to be extremely nice people. So far the harshest comment was about a song sounding like an “Irish pub song”. (The song was mine. And I’m very sure the comment was made with good intentions, haha!) Basically, we all want to learn from one another and ultimately, we would like to hone our songcraft and become better songwriters. In a nutshell: We’re good people.
Q: What if all your songs are so good that I’m embarrassed to share mine?
A: Don’t worry, after hearing my songs first I believe you’ll never feel that way.
Q: What if I have no songs to share? Can I still attend?
A: Sure, no problem. We don’t enforce any “people without songs are barred from entry” kind of rule.
Q: How many songs can I share at max?
A: Try to keep it to a max of 3 songs, if possible. Cos time management might be a factor this Friday.
Q: What if I can’t sing or play?
A: No worries. You don’t need to be a good singer or musician to write great songs. Honestly.
Q: Any instruments provided?
A: Sure. A keyboard (KORG 61-key synthesizer) and an acoustic guitar. Feel free to bring your own too.
Q: I need to play a track from my iPod/laptop. Can I plug my iPod or laptop in?
A: Sure, you can plug your iPod or laptop into the amp. I have the necessary cable for it.
Q: Can I grab a friend along for this Friday?
A: Sure, by all means. The more the merrier.
Q: How many people are expected to attend this Friday?
A: Well, based on rough estimates…I would say maybe 12-15 people? Maybe more.
Q: What’s the timing?
A: We’ll start at 730pm, and we usually end at around 945pm. (The room booking ends at 10pm.) Then after that, we would usually go hang out at some coffee joint to chill out after that. All are welcome.
Q: Must I pay to attend this Friday’s session?
A: Of course not. The best things in life are free.
