March – a busy but fruitful month to be! As you all know, there will be numerous music-related competitions in the coming weeks, for instance choir, orchestra, and other instrumental interschool contests; echoing with “the month of Music”, the Music Club is holding a lyric rewriting competition so as to allow students to showcase their musical talents.
There are complaints saying that the competition is a waste of time, and there is no reason why lyrics should be rewritten when a song is well composed at the time it was released. It is rational for students to have such concern as the competition is unprecedented; nevertheless, lyrics rewriting definitely has its existing value, and students should make an attempt to try. Most of the songs today are mostly about love relationships, or even meaningless; though the lyrics are realistic, some discharge negative idea and there were even news about girls getting depression after listening to these discouraging songs at the times they experienced breakups. It is in fact a pity that meaningful and encouraging songs in the 1960s and 70s, such as those composed and written by Sam Hui and Jim Wong, no longer appear. By rewriting the dispiriting lyrics, the songs can be given a new life with a positive influence to the audiences.
Moreover, with the requirement of urging students to rewrite lyrics on restricted pieces, the competition can expose students to more diverse types of music like jazz, Cantopop, R&B, country, etc, instead of always listening to limited categories of songs. Horizons would be broadened and participants can learn to appreciate other songs and music in the same genre. In addition, through adding in new phrases and lines for the melody, it can be a valuable opportunity and channel for students to express themselves and share their inspiration with others.
After reading the above paragraphs, are you amazed and fascinated by the fun of lyrics rewriting? Here are some small but useful tips when you wish to take part in the competition:
1. If you have no idea what can the theme be, you may think about some daily trivia that may provide you with insights.
2. The lyrics do not necessary need to give profound lesson, but sensible and comfortable phrases should be prioritized.
3. If possible, rhythm scheme can be included so as to make the some more easy to be sang and remembered.
Don’t miss the chance and looking forward to receiving your praiseworthy compositions soon!
