Songwriting Advice
How to Write Onkyokei Songs
What is Onkyokei Music?
Onkyokei is a genre of Japanese music that emerged in the 1990s, characterized by its experimental and avant-garde approach to sound. The term “onkyokei” roughly translates to “sound orchestra” or “sound ensemble,” reflecting the genre’s focus on exploring the sonic possibilities of music. Onkyokei songs often feature unconventional instrumentation, extended techniques, and a rejection of traditional musical structures. As a result, writing Onkyokei songs requires a willingness to push boundaries and challenge conventions.
Looking to write your next song? Transform your creative ideas into songs that people will love, and skyrocket your music career with Lyric Assistant. The perfect songwriting assistant. Find out more →
Quick Links to Useful Sections
Understanding the Characteristics of Onkyokei Music
To write effective Onkyokei songs, it’s essential to understand the key characteristics of the genre. Some common features of Onkyokei music include:
– Experimentation with unconventional sounds and timbres
– Use of extended techniques, such as prepared instruments or unusual playing methods
– Rejection of traditional musical structures, such as melody and harmony
Write Lyrics Like a Professional Songwriter
The ultimate songwriting tool that takes your creative vision to the next level! With just a few clicks, you can unleash your inner songwriter and craft a hit that's uniquely yours. Your song. You own it.
– Emphasis on texture and atmosphere over rhythm and meter
– Often, a focus on improvisation and spontaneity
Choosing the Right Instruments
In Onkyokei music, the choice of instruments is crucial in creating the desired sound. While traditional instruments like guitars and drums can be used, Onkyokei musicians often opt for more unconventional tools, such as:
– Prepared piano, with objects placed between or on the strings to alter the sound
– Extended-range instruments, like the contrabass or the saxophone
– Electronic instruments, such as synthesizers or effect pedals
– Found objects, like metal pipes, glass bottles, or industrial machinery
– Unconventional vocal techniques, like extended vocalizations or vocal processing
Creating an Onkyokei Sound Palette
Developing a unique sound palette is essential in writing Onkyokei songs. This involves experimenting with different timbres, textures, and atmospheres to create a distinctive sonic identity. Some techniques for creating an Onkyokei sound palette include:
– Experimenting with extended techniques, like prepared instruments or unusual playing methods
– Using electronic processing and effects to alter the sound of traditional instruments
– Incorporating found sounds or field recordings into your music
– Creating a “sound library” of unusual sounds and textures to draw upon
Structuring an Onkyokei Song
Onkyokei songs often reject traditional musical structures, but that doesn’t mean they lack form or direction. Instead, Onkyokei musicians often use alternative structures, such as:
– Improvisation, where the musicians create music in the moment
– Graphic scores, which use visual representations to guide the performance
– Text-based scores, which provide written instructions for the musicians
– Soundscapes, which focus on creating a specific atmosphere or environment
Working with Improvisation
Improvisation is a key element of Onkyokei music, allowing musicians to respond to the moment and create unique, spontaneous sounds. To work effectively with improvisation, consider:
– Developing a strong sense of listening and communication with your fellow musicians
– Establishing a clear framework or concept for the improvisation
– Encouraging experimentation and risk-taking
– Recording and reviewing improvisations to refine your approach
Collaboration and Communication
Onkyokei music often involves collaboration between musicians, sound artists, and other creatives. Effective communication is crucial in bringing an Onkyokei song to life. Consider:
– Establishing a clear vision or concept for the song
– Encouraging open communication and feedback among collaborators
– Using visual or textual aids to guide the performance
– Embracing the unexpected and being open to new ideas
Recording and Producing Onkyokei Music
Recording and producing Onkyokei music requires a sensitive and flexible approach. Consider:
– Using high-quality recording equipment to capture the nuances of the sound
– Experimenting with different recording techniques, like close-miking or room recording
– Using editing software to manipulate and shape the sound
– Embracing the imperfections and unpredictability of the music
Writing Onkyokei songs requires a willingness to challenge conventions and push boundaries. By understanding the characteristics of Onkyokei music, choosing the right instruments, creating a unique sound palette, and embracing improvisation and collaboration, you can create music that is truly innovative and avant-garde. Remember to stay open to new ideas, experiment with different techniques, and always prioritize the sound. With patience, practice, and creativity, you can unlock the full potential of Onkyokei music.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Onkyokei music?
Onkyokei is a genre of Japanese music that originated in the 1990s, characterized by its experimental and avant-garde sound. It often features a mix of electronic and acoustic elements, with a focus on atmosphere and texture. Onkyokei songs often have a slow tempo and a introspective, emotive quality to them.
What are the key elements of an Onkyokei song?
The key elements of an Onkyokei song typically include a slow tempo, atmospheric soundscapes, and a focus on texture and timbre. Onkyokei songs often feature a mix of electronic and acoustic instruments, and may incorporate elements of noise, drone, and ambient music.
What kind of instruments are typically used in Onkyokei music?
Onkyokei music often features a range of instruments, including electronic instruments such as synthesizers and drum machines, as well as acoustic instruments like guitars, pianos, and wind instruments. Unconventional instruments like found objects, prepared instruments, and DIY electronics are also commonly used.
How do I create an Onkyokei-inspired sound on a budget?
You don’t need a lot of expensive equipment to create an Onkyokei-inspired sound. Consider using software synthesizers, free audio plugins, and DIY instrument-making techniques to create unique sounds. You can also experiment with found objects and household items to create unconventional instruments.
What is the typical structure of an Onkyokei song?
Onkyokei songs often eschew traditional verse-chorus structures in favor of more experimental and atmospheric approaches. You might consider using ambient intros, gradual builds, and unexpected changes in texture and mood to create a sense of tension and release.
How do I create a sense of atmosphere in my Onkyokei song?
Creating a sense of atmosphere in an Onkyokei song is all about using sound to evoke a particular mood or feeling. Consider using reverb, delay, and distortion effects to create a sense of space and depth, and experiment with different instrumental textures to create a sense of tension and release.
What role does melody play in Onkyokei music?
Melody is often less prominent in Onkyokei music than in other genres, with a focus instead on texture, atmosphere, and mood. However, you can still use melody to create a sense of tension and release, or to add a sense of emotional depth to your song.
How do I write lyrics for an Onkyokei song?
Onkyokei lyrics often focus on themes of introspection, emotion, and personal experience. Consider using abstract, impressionistic language to create a sense of ambiguity and mystery, and experiment with different vocal techniques to add texture and atmosphere to your lyrics.
What is the best way to record an Onkyokei song?
The best way to record an Onkyokei song will depend on your specific equipment and setup. However, consider using a combination of digital and analog recording techniques to create a sense of warmth and depth, and experiment with different mic placements and effects to capture the unique textures and timbres of your instruments.
How do I mix an Onkyokei song?
Mixing an Onkyokei song is all about creating a sense of balance and clarity in the midst of complexity and atmosphere. Consider using a combination of EQ, compression, and reverb to create a sense of space and depth, and experiment with different levels and panning to create a sense of tension and release.
What is the role of noise in Onkyokei music?
Noise is a key element of Onkyokei music, often used to add texture, atmosphere, and emotional intensity to a song. Consider using noise generators, distortion pedals, and other effects to create a sense of tension and release, and experiment with different levels and textures to add depth and complexity to your sound.
How do I create a sense of tension and release in my Onkyokei song?
Creating a sense of tension and release is key to creating a compelling Onkyokei song. Consider using dynamics, texture, and mood to create a sense of contrast and surprise, and experiment with different instrumental and vocal techniques to add emotional intensity to your song.
What is the best way to collaborate with other musicians on an Onkyokei song?
Collaborating with other musicians on an Onkyokei song can be a great way to add new ideas and perspectives to your music. Consider using improvisation and experimentation to create a sense of spontaneity and surprise, and be open to trying new things and taking risks.
How do I know when my Onkyokei song is finished?
Knowing when your Onkyokei song is finished can be a challenge, as the genre often emphasizes experimentation and improvisation. Consider taking a step back from your song and listening to it with fresh ears, and ask yourself whether it evokes the emotions and moods you intended.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing an Onkyokei song?
Some common mistakes to avoid when writing an Onkyokei song include over-reliance on clichés and conventions, a lack of experimentation and risk-taking, and a failure to create a sense of atmosphere and mood. Remember to stay true to your vision and take risks in your songwriting.
How do I get inspiration for my Onkyokei song?
Getting inspiration for your Onkyokei song can come from a variety of sources, including personal experience, literature, art, and nature. Consider keeping a journal or sketchbook to jot down ideas and impressions, and experiment with different techniques and instruments to spark new ideas.
What is the best way to promote my Onkyokei music?
Promoting your Onkyokei music can be a challenge, as the genre is often niche and underground. Consider using social media and online platforms to reach new audiences, and look for opportunities to collaborate with other musicians and artists.
How do I create a live show for my Onkyokei music?
Creating a live show for your Onkyokei music can be a great way to bring your songs to life and connect with audiences. Consider using a combination of electronic and acoustic instruments, and experiment with different lighting and visual effects to create a sense of atmosphere and mood.
What are some key Onkyokei artists and albums I should check out?
Some key Onkyokei artists and albums to check out include Merzbow, Keiji Haino, and Sachiko M. Consider exploring online music platforms and forums to discover new artists and albums, and attend live shows and festivals to experience the music firsthand.
How do I stay true to my artistic vision in the face of criticism and feedback?
Staying true to your artistic vision is key to creating compelling and authentic Onkyokei music. Consider ignoring criticism and feedback that doesn’t resonate with you, and focus on creating music that is true to your vision and values.
What is the future of Onkyokei music?
The future of Onkyokei music is uncertain, but it is likely to continue evolving and changing as new artists and technologies emerge. Consider staying open to new ideas and influences, and experimenting with different techniques and instruments to push the boundaries of the genre.
How do I balance creativity and technicality in my Onkyokei song?
Balancing creativity and technicality is key to creating a compelling Onkyokei song. Consider using technical skills and knowledge to serve your creative vision, and experiment with different techniques and instruments to add depth and complexity to your music.
What is the role of emotion in Onkyokei music?
Emotion is a key element of Onkyokei music, often used to create a sense of intensity and intimacy. Consider using personal experience and emotion to inform your songwriting, and experiment with different vocal and instrumental techniques to convey emotion and mood.
How do I create a sense of space and depth in my Onkyokei song?
Creating a sense of space and depth is key to creating a compelling Onkyokei song. Consider using reverb, delay, and other effects to create a sense of distance and atmosphere, and experiment with different instrumental textures to add depth and complexity to your sound.
Write Lyrics Like a Professional Songwriter
The ultimate songwriting tool that takes your creative vision to the next level! With just a few clicks, you can unleash your inner songwriter and craft a hit that's uniquely yours. Your song. You own it.
