EXHIBITION STATEMENT

Khali Williams

Abstract

Write a Song to Change Your Life repurposed a popular art form that is frequently thought of as a means of consumption, into a tangible form of personal expression and playful fun for everyday people. Students challenged themselves through participating in an art form in songwriting, which is not typically thought of for its accessibility. Participants engaged with themes, concepts. and historical and cultural context of various genres and backgrounds in music, while using introspection to discover the depth of their own experiences and perspective, then using song to form a meaningful personal narrative.

Method

I engaged in research of the most effective forms of songwriting, studying the process of renowned artists like Bob Dylan, Gil Scott-Heron, Ed Sheeran and more. I drew upon sources detailing approaches to teaching songwriting to children as I recognized that my audience would be relatively youthful, being mostly first-year students. My research led me to utilize a focus on implementing skills early on that would form a tool belt for participants, as I found that songwriting is mainly about intentionality, and balance between its elements. Participants were to utilize their tools as they learn about themselves as artists and diverse musical backgrounds throughout the semester. I wanted to maintain a relaxed approach, so I made sure the  environment was lightened through inclusive discussions, and I tried my best to relate new ideas to familiar concepts for participants.

Audience

My workshop’s primary audience was 10 of my Arts Scholars peers, most of whom first-year students and all of whom were girls. Further, the rest of the Arts Scholars community, especially my fellow workshop leaders, make up part of the greater audience. The impact I sought to have was for participants of this project to uncover hidden talents or passions for the practice of songwriting, and encouraging them to keep up the skills they learn. They’ve been afforded the opportunity to begin a journey which could be lifelong of expressing oneself through song. Completing this capstone project has impacted me incredibly; as an artist I have been able to expand my depth and understanding in songwriting, leading me to enjoy other projects even more and create better art. I look forward to utilizing all I learned about being a leader this semester in future leadership roles. Finally, it has meant the world to me just to see the excitement and passion that this group of girls brought into our workshop each week. I  learned much about the way others relate to art and music, and the growth I witnessed from our group is inspiring.

Acknowledgements

I want to especially acknowledge my instructors Heather and Harold for pushing us to make this the best possible experience for all involved as well as Justyn my TA for his resourcefulness through this process.