Help:Music Compositions
How to Write an Article on a Music Composition
An article on a Music Composition provides basic factual information in narrative form. Length of article will vary considerably based on the importance, impact and consequence of the work on the Mennonite community and on those outside the denomination. Thus a work with a limited audience or impact may be described in 100 words, while a significant work that has lasting impact or controversy may approach 500 words. Brevity is best. For questions on style contact an editor or see GAMEO's Style Sheet for Authors.
Elements to be Considered
Standard description of the composition, which includes:
- Title
- Composer, librettist, songwriter, arranger
- Genre
- Performance requirements
- Structure (movements, sections, arrangement of songs)
- Date of premiere performance
- Performer or performers
- Occasion and location of premiere performance
- Commissioning body
The above elements should describe the premiere performance of the work. Other aspects of the history of the composition, both before and after the premiere performance, could include the following:
- Date or period of composition
- History of composition process or commissioning process
- Publisher; date of publication
- Arrangements
- Recordings, recording media (CD, vinyl, video, music streaming sites, etc.)
- Performance and broadcast history
- Use in other media such as film or television
- Mennonite focus
- Critical reception
- Awards
Structure of the Article
Not all of the elements are required for the article but they should be considered. An article on music in non-classical genres will emphasize recordings and on-line distribution methods since premiere performances and publication may not be relevant.
Of primary importance is the impact description and this should take special note of connections related to Anabaptism or Mennonites, their Christian faith, culture or lifestyle. Background information on the use of Anabaptist / Mennonite themes by the composer, librettist or song writer should always be considered.