Tuesday 4 December 2012

Busy, busy writing

The first several weeks of lessons with Jess was more like therapy sessions than anything else.  I went in thinking our sessions would be all about the technical aspects of songwriting.  Much to my surprise, spent our time together getting to the root of my stage fright, examining it to better understand it and, ultimately, overcome it.

In our first meeting, I was astounded how Jess got right to the heart of things within the first 15 minutes of our session.  This illusive monster I'd been struggling with for 34 years was so clear to her and suddenly, it was clear to me too.  And knowing is half the battle, right?  That doesn't mean "poof! it's all gone!" but at least I know what I'm fighting now.  The big scary monster lurking in the dark has had a light thrown on it and it's not so bad.

Just having it suddenly make sense felt like a huge weight was lifted from my shoulders.

So the first several weeks were about talking and writing.  At her request, I journal every morning (a la "The Artist's Way"); some entries off the top of my head and some with directives from Jess.  One of the best exercises Jess gave me was to take something I said ("who the fuck do I think I am that anyone would give a shit to hear me sing?") and pretend my 13 year old niece said it about her dancing and write her a letter explaining why anyone would want to watch her dance.  It was extremely effective and an exercise I will most definitely return to.  I think anyone could apply this exercise to any self doubt they may be having.  Choose someone you love, turn the tables, explain to them why they're wrong.  You'll be amazed.

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