Kids Songs
The Writer's Resource

      
Art meets technology in kids songs

While we were writing and performing kids songs, the world became a sophisticated place. Just like that. Computers. Internet. Digital audio.

We can do a lot of things better, smarter, and we have more tools than ever to make our music. But underneath the cd burning, downloading, podcasting, webstreaming, the underpinnings of art and craftsmanship remain unchanged.

Creating quality music for children is an art. And although the words can sometimes seem simple, the ideas and emotions behind them are eternal. It's the reason music is both written and appreciated, especially when the messages and sentiments are truly universal. This is the goal of every composer, whether writing for kids or for an adult audience, to create entertainment that is understood inherently.

This resource recognizes that creating music for kids is special. You only get their attention for a little while, before they outgrow your songs, and move on. But during the time that you have their attention, your influence can be significant. It is a well documented fact that kids are better at remembering words and sounds than adults. They learn languages faster, and memorize melodies more readily than you and I. The proof is all those songs we heard when we were children, that will remain in our memories forever. This is powerful stuff.

The tools of this trade range from single acoustic instruments to massive computer systems that also do the recording. Many composers simply use a guitar or piano and a piece of paper. The point is, that there is no best or only way to write good songs for kids.

While you really don't really need equipment to do the writing, most writers of kids songs would rather use their electronic tools than not. For one, you can use recording devices to not only create your product, but also help you improve your live performance. Best of all, recording and production can be integrated into the writing process, giving the composer incredible control over the recorded sound. Even if you write with piano or guitar, recording as you experiment with ideas enables you to reconstruct cool improvs that would otherwise be lost forever. Recording while you write enables you to make use of serendipity.

Getting Started
This is a must read by Michael Mish, composer/producer/performer

How To Develop A Career In Children's Entertainment
This, from Lou Del Bianco, career artist, performer

Classic Songs
This is a fantastic resource if you perform classic songs

Memorable Kids Songs Stay With You Forever
Proof that songs have staying power