Friday, October 2, 2009

YOU AND LOVE

Love is difficult to define as it involves so many different feeling. There are different kinds of love:
• Love for parents
• Love for friends
• Love for spouse/boyfriend in courtship or married couples

Love is very big and a very complex emotion. Generally, love is a deep feeling of attraction, fondness, respect, caring and understanding for another person, despite his/her weakness or faults.

True love is…
• A sense of responsibility and commitment to another person
• A feeling that seeks good things for another person
• It is not impatient or touchy nor irritable
• It does not bear grudges
• Not jealous. Jealous is insecurity while in love or control of the other person

What love is…?
• Love makes lovers feel good about each other
• Love is caring, truthful and honesty, not being secretive
• Love is dignity and respect
• Love takes no advantage of the other person

True love gives…
• Respect for each other
• Not to do something that will hurt the other person
• Not to force the other person to do what he or she does not like
• Always want to make the other person happy

DEVELOP LOVE
Like a flower, love is something that you plant and nurture. Two opposite people cannot just meet and have a wonderful relationship that will last forever, even though this happen sometimes, it must still be built and watched over till it becomes what is wanted.

Love can either stand the test of time or it can follow the storms of life. The storm that breaks most love can be summed up in this few under-listed words:
1. Lack of trust:
You may not really know it but 99% of relationship break up is due to lack of trust on the part of a partner or both. Trust is the vital ingredient that holds any relationship together. It is like a thread and when broken to mend it will always show cracks or wounds that are most times not easy to mend.
2. No commitment
To be candid, many, is like they do not understand what commitment is to a relationship. It is standing on your promises and doing what you have said you will do in real truth without going back on your words. Promises are what hold a relationship together; it goes along with trust and helps it grow to fruition.
3. Misunderstanding
So many times it is the failure of knowing how to handle misunderstanding that destroys good relationships. And truly saying it, this can be curbed if only friends or lovers can really try to sit down and think before talking, or one person try to reason and blame his or herself for the mistake so as to see the truth before apportioning blames. The truth is, often what causes misunderstanding is something so trivial that when known and looked into well enough will only bring laughter to a more matured person. Misunderstanding is inevitable but it can be avoided with maturity and understanding.
4. Lack of respect
This is a vital ingredient in any relationship as it has been pointed out before but you must understand that everybody seeks and love a humble person that can give respect and to men it is important that their friend or fiancée respect them, which will give them the courage to reciprocate back, otherwise the relationship will fall into disgrace in front of onlookers or outsiders. And in this, a break is inevitable.
5. Jealousy and anger
This is like sickness from the pit of death itself. You must control your jealousy because most times what is thought to be isn’t what it is. Get facts and work things out in maturity, love and respect. Control your anger, because this also has been the problem of some relationship breakup in the past and it still stands in life, causing problems here and there. Leave your anger till tomorrow and see what comes out of it!
6. No friends
Friends are needed in life, so it is in any relationship, but you must be careful of the kind you keep in your relationship because some friends are out to get and not to give or help you to improve yourself for good. Another thing is that if you do not have friends that can be there for you, don’t fret it. Find a mentor that can help you to know where that relationship is heading.
7. Selfishness
As it is said, “the order of life is reciprocal”. Everyone loves someone who gives but a relationship is a give and take thing not a do or die affair. Relationship or friendship is there to build you up not to tear you down. You must look into the one you are in and find out what it’s offering you before you keep on going in circles or miss your road in it.
8. Break in communication
Communication has been discussed before as the most important ingredient in a relationship, and here you must understand that when there’s a break in communication, the heart tends to start playing its tricks on the human mind. You must keep that line open all the time for complete communication to be on otherwise your relationship is heading towards the rocks.
9. Lack of companionship
This goes along with communication in that you both must find time to see each other so as to be able to know each other well in all areas of life. Find time to talk, go out together, play together, go site seeing together, visit places together and get to know one another better. Always have an agenda for your meetings (and ladies/girls should never go to a guy or man’s house alone without a friend except when you are married) so that the devil will not give you his own agenda.
10. Expecting too much
You must understand that asking too much is getting and looking for problems. Don’t try to expect too much from your partner. Understand that everybody have their own personal obligations in life and helping to plan, work together was the reason why God Himself created relationship and not killing one another for what is not. “Whatever you will not eat try not to smell it!” Don’t turn your partner into a thief overnight in the name of love. Understand and know what he or she can help you with and accept it as a help for future progress.

A TRUE FRIEND
A true friend is somebody who knows you
And still likes you the way you are
He or she is always on your side of struggles

A true friend is somebody who knows your
Weakness and can still stand by you
He/she is on your side of battles

A true friend is somebody whom you can
Share your ideas and philosophy with
He/she hears your cry of pains

A true friend is somebody who shares in
Your high and low
He or she will always tell you the truth
Even when you are wrong

A true friend is somebody who is truthful
And loyal, with a true friend you are
Valuable, you can be yourself

A loyal friend can be trusted with
Information that is delicate. Loyalty
And faithfulness is a key to a long
Lasting relationship, In-depth shining
Accepting rather than being a judge

A true friend is somebody who causes you to grow
Spiritually, intellectually and mentally
Your friend will stimulate you to be
At your best at all times
“By Sandra Udoma”

GOD AND FUTURE
In all things your relationship with God matters because all things work together for good to those who truly focus and put their trust in Him. Love flows from him and nothing bad ever originates from Him if he is followed to the end. He is the author of love and putting Him in remembrance can your relationship work out fine.

Only the creator of love can teach you what love is all about and help you to make it work in retrospect. Look to Him and his words for all the direction you will need in life and love.

KNOWING LOVE
Does he really love you?
• He tells you he does always
• Calls you on the phone just to hear your voice
• He isn’t too demanding, he is not bossy
• He believes you are right when you are and says it
• He doesn’t do a thing he knows you will disapprove of
• He’s always there for you when you need him
• He is ready to lend you a shoulder to lean on
• Never ashamed of you in public
• Wants you to meet everyone he knows, especially his parents
• He will give you anything you ask of him whenever he as it
• He asks you what the problem is even when you frown mistakenly
• He will find ways to show he loves you, buy you flowers, write you notes, etc
• Ready to give you an ear when you need him
• Forgives you no matter what you do to hurt him
• He’s ready to share his last with you

YOU NEED CAREFULNESS
Guys to avoid
• Mr. know it all who believes he knows more than you and all
• Mummy’s boy; his mother controls him
• The guy’s guy: he hangs out with guys
• Mr. violent; one who can’t control his anger
• The player; the Casanova who just want fun
• Mr. gasconade: one who thinks and talks only of himself

Girls to avoid
• The party masters: One who is really a party freak
• The guy’s girl: One who is always with guys and has many a dates
• Mrs. Casanova: One who just believing in one is not enough; “testing the waters”
• The liar, liar: One whose lies are uncovered with her knowledge; baby lies
• The money minder: One who cannot help you to plan but always ready to spend
• The en-vogue, fashion freak: One who wants to wear everything in town

INFATUATION
This is when your heart is pounding with a wild feeling for someone but after you know the person, you find out that the feelings dies out and there is no more attraction to the person.

It is always good to wait in any relationship, to find out and know the person you are going out with before you attempt anything out of the ordinary so that you won’t mistakenly enter with infatuation into a relationship and later find out that you can’t go on after troubles have been created.


The Book: Friendship & Courtship
From: Treasured1 Creative Ideas int.
By: Salau O John

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

WRITING THAT POEM

A. What is Poetry?

Has it is said; Poetry is an art (a way of writing). It is the art of writing in prose and stanzas with words on lines, having its own ways of arranging words, line by line. It uses languages to convey a lot of meaning in its own context.

Poetry is the work of poets and writers (those involve in writing prose, plays, song lyrics and movie scripts), which is often referred to as literature in the art world.

B. What Poetry is all about?
Poetry is all about you, your imagination, culture, environment and everything seen, heard, understand, understood and known around or across the world.

It is an aspect of arts that is so unique, powerful in helping to create a balance in a world of chaos, through written or spoken words; helping to create humor in the society, teaching morals, educational and cultural lessons.

It is about building a better you, country through good information, education and analyzing prospects for better ethical standards.

Basically, it deals with the morals (good behaviors) and amoral (bad behaviors) acts of a giving society and help in curbing amoral acts, bringing it to light for all to learn something out of.

C. Poetry Requirements.
Many hobbies or sports require special equipments but with poetry the arrangements needed are not special in any form because it is not a dangerous hobby. All that you need is a pencil, pen and a piece of paper.

When a car breaks down a mechanic comes around to repair it. Usually he has a bag of tools with him. Nearly everybody needs tools to do their job. A painter can't paint without a paintbrush, paint and other tools for his trade.

A poet needs tools also: A pen or pencil, something to write on, perhaps a word processor (computer), but most important of all - words. The more words you know, the better equipped you are to write poems.

You don't have to have a big vocabulary to write poems. Sometimes the simplest words can produce beautiful poems. But poetry is all about finding the exact word that you need.

How do you improve your word power? The best way is to read. Read lots of books or have a catholic taste for books - and whenever you come across an unfamiliar word, find out what it means. It could be just the word you'll need in your next poem.

Most people (adults as well as children) tend to read the same sort of books all the time. You find a type of story you like, or a favorite author, and you read it. But poets try different sorts of stories. Read newspapers and magazines. Try reading novels and motivational books. Once in a while try an "adult" book. And if you are going to be a poet, read lots of poetry. You probably have some favorite poets, but read other poets too. Keep on reading to improve your word power!

You should understand that a pen and a paper are the only things you need, but in serious writings there are other tools that are valuable to your trade, which you must have, and they are listed hereunder.

1. Notebook
This is the most important tool of the trade. A small notebook/notepad, better still one that can fit into your pocket, that you can take along with you everywhere or wherever you go. You can't tell when ideas will occur to you, and if you don't write them down, you stand the chance of forgetting them.

Having or carrying a notebook with you all the time will help you in writing or jotting down your ideas immediately when they occur to you so that none will be forgotten.

• Usefulness of a notebook or Journal
Some poets consider using a Journal, which is like a book having blank pages that you, can write anything into. It is like a diary only that it does not have pages for each day of the year, but you can organize or arrange it in anyway you like it to be. But here, understand that a notebook is more appropriate for the job because of the advantage of being able to carry it about in your pocket.

Now, if you are ready to be a poet: then go get a notebook or journal or a pocketbook and start jotting or putting down your ideas, this does not mean writing an entire poem. It can be as simple as noticing a word, a rhyme, whatever word that can be of use or of interest to you.

You don't need to worry yourself on neatness, spellings or punctuations, just write as you wish, don't worry about the write-up. What matters is being able to capture ideas as they come to you by keeping them in your journal or notebook.

You can also use your notebook to write an entire poem or the one that you can finish later.

Also understand that a poet is an observer. A poet keeps his or her eyes open and notice things. It's a good idea to keep a notebook handy at all times because you never can tell when you'll see or hear something that might be useful in your poem. So do not only keep your eyes and ears open, but your nose as well.

Make a notebook you carry about your best friend or companion for writing poetry. Write down your ideas in it and make good use of it, using your brain wisely with your pen in hand; all hobbies are learned by doing.

• Dictionary
This helps you to understand works in their real context, arrangements and patterns. It also helps in the understanding of the connotative (applied meaning of words in the prevalent society of a writer due to long usage of the words) and denotative (the real meaning of words according to dictionary usage) use of words in everyday speech.

One thing you need to understand is that some dictionaries are better than others in terms of selection of words, clarity of definition etc. Now go get yourself a Good dictionary!

• A Thesaurus
This is another book; it is the last book of the trade. Every poet needs to have this because of it's help in the understanding of words, their meaning to a society or to an individual, given the privilege of finding words that "mean the same thing" or the opposite of a given word.

Having and using a thesaurus can help you to improve your poetry by offering you the chance to choose appropriate words for your poem or words that fit the structure (arrangements) of your poem. They can help by giving you new ideas that you would never have thought of.

• Rhyming Dictionary
This you need because it's important cannot be overlooked. It is a book that lists words that rhyme with end sounds of other words. If you don't have one, my advice is that you look for it as quickly as possible because it will help you in your journey to becoming a good poet.

• Free net
This is a language playground that is found on the net, it can be of good use to you if there's access available to the Internet. It is like a thesaurus, usually, it can look for synonyms and sometimes antonyms. It can also get you rhyming words, sound-alike words, anagrams (words that use same letters) or words that are generalizations. If you wish to explore this avenue; here are links for you bellow:

http://www-link.cs.cmu.edu/lexfn/
http://www.dictionary.com-m-w.com/
http://www.thesaurus.com/
http://www.xlibris.com/
http://www.universe.com/
http://www.m-w.com/

You can also create your own poetry web pages:
http://www.blogg.com/
http://www.poetrypoem.com/

Site for poetry competition:
http://www.forwardpress.com/
http://www.poetry.com/
http://www.poetrylibrary.org.uk/competitions
http://www.winningwriters.com/
http://www.poetrykit.org/comps.htm


The Book: Poetry For You
From: Treasured1 Creative Ideas Int. Publishing
ISBN: 978-978-088-341-6
By: Salau O John

Monday, September 28, 2009

TALKING ABOUT COPYRIGHTS

What is Copyright?

Copyright is the exclusive right owned by the owner or author of a book or music album or works etc. to control the use of work created by him. It is also the right of property as recognized and sanctioned by positive law. An intangible incorporeal right granted by statues to the author or originator of certain literary or artistic productions, whereby he is invested for a limited period, with the sole and exclusive privilege of multiplying copies of the same publishing and selling them.

The copyright law confers on the owner, author or creator the right of ownership in what they have created. It therefore gives such creator the opportunity to benefit from his creation and also encourage him to create more.

Works eligible for Copyright:
1. Literary works: This include irrespective of literary quality of the following works or works similar thereto, novels stories, poetic works, plays, stage directions, film scenario, and broad-casting scripts; chorographic works; computer programmes, textbooks, treaties, histories, biographies, essays and articles; encyclopedia, dictionaries and anthologies; letters, report and memoranda; lectures. Addresses, and sermons; law reports, excluding decisions of courts; written tables or compilations.

2. Musical Works:
This includes any musical work, irrespective of musical quality and includes works composed for musical accomplishment.

3. Artistic Works:
This is also includes irrespective of artistic quality, any of the following works similar thereto, namely, paintings, drawings, etching, lithographs, woodcuts, engravings and prints, maps, plants and diagrams; works of sculpture; photographs not comprised in cinematography film, works of architecture in the form of building models; and works of artistic craftsmanship.

4. Cinematography Films:
This includes the first fixation of sequence of visual images capable of being shown as a moving picture and of being the subject of reproduction, and includes the recording of a sound tract associated with the cinematography film.

5. Sound Recording:
This is the first fixation of a sequence capable of being reproduced but does not include a sound track associated with cinematography film.

6. Broadcast:
This includes sound or television broadcast by wireless telegraphy or wire or both or by satellite or cable programmes and includes rebroadcasts.

It must be understood that as elaborate as copyright is it does not protect everything that one may want to protect. Such titles, Num de plum, Advertisements, ideas, obscene or blasphemous works, criticisms or review, Head note, a letter to the editor and public Jurist.

Generally an advertisement is entitled to copyright protection provided that the advertisement has a degree of originality. It can be copyrighted as a literary work or artistic works or as a combination of both. This type of copyright is vested in the advertiser or his agent.

Works out of Copyright Protection:
There is no copyright protection for a mere idea, no matter how noble the idea may be; it does not fall within the confines of the property protected by copyright. Before it can be protected, the idea must have been transformed into something which is more substantial or permanent than a mere idea. For instance the idea may be reduced into writing and it ay be recorded on tape. There will be copyright protection for any of the above examples but not an idea which is still in contemplation or at best a concept.

Copyright protection is not available for an idea because the substance that is being protected by the law is lacking in an idea or concept. Copyright law protects originality in a work but the originality required is that of skill and labor that has been invested in the work.

There is generally no copyright protection for obscene, libelous or blasphemous work. Understand that there is also no copyright protection in criticism or review. The copyright law regards as fair dealing the use of literary, musical or artistic works for the purpose of criticism or review, research or private use or reporting of current events.

However, it is required that there should be acknowledgement of the work and its authorship where the use is public. But if the work is incidentally included in a publication or broadcast, the acknowledgement will not be necessary.

Law reports, Decree constitutions and other law publications consist of head notes, footnotes, side notes etc. All these enjoy copyright protection because before they can be set in such a way, they require special and extra rigor, labor and skill.

Also, letter being sent to the editor of a newspaper, writer of the letter no longer has property in the letter; it automatically becomes the property of the newspaper therefore the writer cannot sue for copyright infringement. There is no copyright protection for public juries (the history of the day) also. They are historical events of the day and not the creation of a person. While there may be copyright for the style, manner and use of language or phrase in which a story is presented there is no copyright for the news element in a newspaper story, because the intention of the law is not to give an individual the exclusive right to any particular event/history of the day.

Requirements for Copyright:
Originality:
The decree of copyright is to effect that sufficient effort must have been expanded in making the work to give it an original character before copyright can subsist in a literary music or artistic work.

Copyright protection makes originality the bases for any copyright work. Meaning that the work must have come from the imagination of the author, with his own labor, skill to bring to bear the property to which copyright is sought. The work must not be an imitation of another work. The work must be an original in form and structure.

Conversion into a permanent form:
This states that the works for copyright must have been converted, transformed into something permanent or definite such that it can be perceived, reproduced or otherwise communicated by any means. This means that the work has advanced from the stage of ordinary idea to something ore realistic or tangible.

Who is qualified for Copyright Protection?
Copyright is conferred on any work eligible of which the author, or in the case of joint authorship, any of the author is at the time when the work is made, a qualified person; meaning that an individual is a citizen of, or under the laws of Nigeria.

In case of joint authorship, it will be sufficient if one of the authors is a citizen at the time when the work is made. The determinant for being eligible by an author is being a citizen of the state. Anyone who lives in the state is also eligible if he/she is domicile there

Who owns Copyright Protection?
The ownership of a literary, musical, or artistic work or a cinematography film is initially vested in the author.

An author is any person who originates, creates, invents or gives existence to a work. He/She is the owner of the copyright in the work he/she has authored.

The Book: The Book
From: Treasured1 Creative Ideas Int.
By: Salau O John

Sunday, September 27, 2009

HOW TO WRITE A BOOK

A book is a written or printed work consisting of pages fastened together along one side and bound in covers. It can be written, printed on any paper as long as it is bounded and meant for reading by others who need the information that it offers. It can also be a main division of literary work or a bound set of blank sheets for writing in.

Basically, talking, a book is what you can write in or a manuscript you typed and print from your computer, bounded for reading purpose or the safety of the information inside.

You must understand that the purpose of a book is to pass across information to audiences that are varied and diverse in nature, background, understanding, etc. which necessitates that one must be careful of the book one writes or read.

The purpose of a book:
1. To Teach:
A book helps in teaching morals, lifestyle and the basic understanding of life.
2. To Educate:
A book is a class room outside the school of studies, it upgrades minds by given it information and trainings in different aspects.
3. To Entertain
A book does entertain depending on the type of book it is. You can read Novels that does entertain or school children books that have imbedded in them laughing antidotes for you.
4. To Inform
A book informs about culture, life, environment and different languages existing across the globe.
5. To Help and Direct

Another thing is the power of a book to direct you away from negative life, failure, procrastination and mediocrity in life; Books like the motivational ones are in these categories.

We have three types of books in any given society that all writers need to know about; they are namely:
1. Prose books:
This is used for writing drama, magazine stories (short or long), books and newspapers. They are books of which a writer is free to use sentences of various lengths, but not allowed to use words as he likes. His words or dictions must be simple, clear and direct so that anybody picking the book will be able to read and understand it without bias to the words in use.

It is important to your understanding; all books must be written in a style of language prevalent in any given society, a language that is viewed as if you were talking to a friend.

2. Poetry books:
These are books writing in poetry style or that have added poems imbedded in them for people to gain insight into language and its usefulness. Some books are just poetry anthologies dealing in poetry analysis of different types of poets and poems; while others are basically compositions of an author’s different poem for comprehension, moral teachings and entertaining. Although poetry itself is a subject of the learned mind; it is not just anybody that can read poems and understand it due to its use of language differently sometimes from the local usage of language.

3. Motivational books:
These are books written about the knowledge or experience of an author on a particular subject. It means the writer or author is an authority on the subject and wishes to let the world know about the information or a problem he has just come out of. It is basically written in simple chapters, paragraphs, sentences and language for anybody to pick and understand.

4. Fictional books:
These are books written for the purpose of leisure or pleasure. They are composed of imaginary information, things that does not exist are put together to create a unique love for reading and help improve imaginations, language, thoughts, and cultural instincts.

5. Educational books:
These are books for schools. They are used for teaching, educating and training purposes. Mostly, they are written in prose style with a lot of information to be gleaned by students and teachers as well.

6. Biographical/Autobiographical books:
These are books written by an author about himself (autobiography) so as to let people know about his life, successes, struggles and who he/she is at the moment. But a biography is written by another person about the author for the sake of letting people know who the author really is either when he was alive after his demise or what is doing at the present.

There are many other ways to write a book but mostly they all follow same pattern except in paragraph and fonts usage which will be talked about hereunder:

Paragraph usage:
1. Blocked Paragraph:
When writing this no space is left to the left margin but new paragraph starts on a new line.
2. Indented Paragraph:
In writing this a space is left to the margin on the starting of every new paragraph.
3. Hanging Paragraph:
Using this means a paragraph is left hanging when writing. It is basically used in writing magazines and newspaper reporting.
4. Headed Paragraph:
In writing this you will give the paragraph a subtitle which is underlined before the development of the controlling idea.

You can use any of the three paragraphs above for writing your book or combine them to help your book more.

Font usage:
There are so many fonts for writing a book and making it readable but the advice is to make sure that whatever fonts you will using will be big enough and legible for any reader to see what is written or printed in a your book.

Essentially, the most prominent fonts in use are:
Times New Roman, Ariel, Ariel Black, Helvetica, etc. they are all important to becoming a better writer and publisher of books.


The Book: How To Write A Book
From: Treasured1 Creative Ideas Int.
By: Salau O John

Friday, September 25, 2009

THE SINGER IN U: BECOME A MUSIC LEADER

Becoming a Lead Singer:
Complete beginners should first consider their vocal qualities and the style of music to which it is suited, although this may change considerably with training and age. For instance a soft singing voice with no projecting ability will find it difficult if not impossible to be heard above a heavy rock band or full orchestra without amplification, whereas a strong operatic voice would overpower an acoustic duo unless the singer had considerable training and control.

Once the singer has identified the Style and Genre of music most suited to their voice and ability then some thought should be put into the songs to be performed, age of the singer and the types of venue that are suitable for the music. When reviewing these aspects of singing a complete re-think may be required, especially if you are a 15 – 18 year old rock lover with a quiet voice!!

What’s A Band?:
Finding the right style of music and musicians who are around the same age and competence is often the way a singer in training starts their career. A band is a TEAM who collaborates, learns and works together of which the singer is a part. He or she needs to be able to get on with the other musicians and be prepared to sing material that they may not particularly enjoy. The types of songs chosen have to be within the singers’ range and ability. Unless the singer is experienced, the songs to be performed should be chosen with the aid of a singing or music teacher to ensure that the voice is not overstretched or damaged through abuse.

When performing with other people the singer is required to sing in time and in tune with the music whilst expressing the lyrics to the song. Starting and stopping at the appropriate points in the song and learning to improvise when mistakes are made are essential talents that a singer must have if they wish to sing with a band or pursue a professional career.

Personality is another aspect that the singer is expected to express. This can be done in three ways, either through the emotive quality of the voice, via energy and movement or a combination of both. A singer does not need to be a great dancer to get attention from their audience, although all singers should be able to move expressively. This doesn't mean you need to jump around the stage, a smooth hand gesture, sad smile or pointed 'look' at appropriate points in the song can be enough to capture the audience. Some people have an indefinable quality called Charisma, which can draw the audience to watch and listen to them even when the songs performed, or vocal style is not their particular cup of tea.

Communicating with the other musicians in the band is also an art that is usually learnt during the rehearsal process. The ability to slow down, speed up or stop the music by indicating to your fellow musicians can be achieved by signals that can be integrated into your performance so that the audience is unaware of your directions. The exception to this is singers who perform with Orchestras who take their directions from a Conductor.

Every singer has their own signals that their fellow band members watch out for, but there are a few standard signals that most professional musicians can identify, e.g.

* Raised hand or digit circling quickly - speed up tempo (or repeat passage).
* Raised hand or digit circling slowly - slow down tempo.
* Gentle hand gestures downwards - less volume.
* Raised arm - indicates 'watch for ending'
* Same arm dropped down sharply - STOP
* Arm circling - repeat the previous passage.

An experienced band that shares a rapport should know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. The singer can indicate their preferences with a nod or a look whilst the songs performed should flow effortlessly. If mistakes are made the professional band may often improvise making the mistake appear intentional or cover it with humor.

A frontman/woman is also expected to communicate with the audience during the course of the performance. Introducing the band, the songs and building a rapport with the people watching is all part of being a lead singer. You should always try to be true to yourself when talking to the audience. Some singers are happy 'winging it' and chatting away without any idea of what they are going to say beforehand, whilst others write and memorize (or take on stage) a script that remains the same for each performance and provides them with continuity in every show (even professional singers do this). If you don't have much confidence or experience in performing in front of an audience, write some notes and practice these during each rehearsal or in front of friends and family.

'Image' also needs to be considered. When working with other musicians as a unit, what you wear and how you present yourselves should reflect the style of music you play. For instance, a rock band wearing tuxedos are unlikely to be taken seriously unless the effect is meant for 'novelty value' or the band is mainly performing covers at corporate functions. Whatever you wear should not restrict your breathing, movement or vocal apparatus.

Reliability and Consistency of performance is required from every singer, letting your audience or employer down will give you a bad reputation which will quickly spread and prevent you from finding quality employment.

Most experienced singers who are competent in their field of music can become a lead singer although wages will depend on their ability, professionalism and versatility. A good band can work practically anywhere from local pubs, clubs, festivals and theatres, whilst sight reading singers could find a neat sideline deputizing for other singers and working as a backing vocalist or session singer for major artists and producers.

If the singer is also a lyricist or songwriter then collaborating with friends or advertising for like minded people to join them in performing their particular style of music, is how the band is formed. The singer can also be the driving force of the band, organizing the rehearsals, choosing the songs to be played and getting the gigs, although its far better if all members of the band make an equal effort.

Lead singers in bands performing original material can expect little or no initial pay unless they can build and retain a following, produce their own album or get signed by a record company. The length of time a band is expected to play varies depending on whether they are performing covers or original material and if they are the main act or acting as a support act for the headliner. 15-40mins is about average for original bands and support acts, headline acts can expect to play for approximately 30 - 90 minutes, whilst covers bands are often the only entertainment booked for the evening. 2 or 3 x 45 minute sets are usually sufficient although a few 'extra' songs should always be prepared in case of 'encores' - if you do run out of material - redo a song that was performed in the first half of the show!

The differences between a Lead Singer and a Solo Artist are actually quite small and mainly a matter of career choice. There are many instances of singers who started out as the frontperson in a band yet went on to become a solo artist, for example, 2 Face Idibia, Michael Jackson.

How to get Work as a Lead Vocalist:
If you are still at school or college ask your teacher if you can put up a notice in the music room to advertise for band members or who want to join a band.

Use the telephone directory to find rehearsal studios and music shops in your area and ask the owner if they have a music notice board where you can place an ad or read ads placed by musicians looking for a singer.

Contact Entertainment Agents or Promoters who may know of a band currently looking for a lead singer.

Create a Publicity Pack! Include 3 of your best songs on the demo showing your vocal range. Buy music industry trade papers or publications that run classified ads for singers wanted. You can even place an advert describing your abilities and offering your services.

Contact Recording Studios, Backing Track Suppliers to see if they hire freelance singers or employ 'in house'.

Use the Internet - many music websites offer a free classified ads section for singers, bands, musicians, and music industry personnel. Take advantage of this by owning a website that highlights your talents and include the link in your advert.

Keep several Business Cards with you at all times. Don't miss an opportunity, if a band, musician or producer approaches you at an open mic night, jam night, showcase etc., ask for their business card and give them yours!!

Ask professional singing friends, musicians, voice teacher, and performance coach for an introduction or recommendation to an agent or management company. Also ask if they will allow you to do a few numbers as a support act at some of their gigs, you may not get paid but you will get seen by the venue, and/or agent who may offer you bookings.

Enter Talent Competition and offer your singing services for Charity Shows to get experience, gain exposure and meet other musicians and artists.

Opportunities are only limited to the competence and determination of the singer who can find work with bands in public places, clubs, churches, nightclubs, radio, television or by backing/deputizing for other singers and as a session singer.


All the best to you my friend....

From the Book: Music & You
Coming Soon from: Treasured1 Creative Ideas Int.
By: Salau O John

Thursday, September 24, 2009

WORDS CHANGES IT

YOU CAN IF YOU SAY SO
Yes, we believe with our heart, and so we are made right with God. And we use our mouth to say that we believe, and so we are saved. Rom.10 vs.10

…If you don’t believe this message then people should not believe you. Isa.7 vs.9b

Our beliefs matters in the process of determination, because it can either limit us or help us to move forward. It must also be understood that it is only what we believe in that we put our trust or confidence in and confess.

What we listen to as well matters a great deal in our growing up to become what we want to be in life. The actual fact of talking your way to becoming great is that talking to yourself about where you are going helps in reorienting your goals and vision and gives you a more focused mind in return. It is often said that, “What you say is what you become”. Tell yourself good things every morning when you wake up looking at the mirror, and see how you will feel throughout the day.

GUIDE YOUR WORDS
A smart person doesn’t tell everything he knows. But a foolish person tells everything and shows he is a fool. Prov.12 vs.23


A person who talks too much gets himself into trouble. A wise person learns to be quiet. Prov.10 vs.19

This is another way out of wasting time, energy and breaking boundaries in the things a person is set to achieve or become in life.

Many have made the mistake of telling people about everything they want to do before doing it. This is wrong, as only God knows what will be on earth.

We all need to learn to keep the door of our mouth shut sometimes until the fulfillment of what we are running after. Oftentimes you don’t know who is listening to your dreams to steal or kill it before it comes to pass as it is said in a Yoruba proverb, “all lizards lie down but you do not know which as tummy ache”.

So be careful of what you are saying and learn to think before you say anything; even the devil, and your enemy has no power against what you have not voiced.

GUIDE THAT HEART
We all do fail to see
When the rain comes in boisterous
We all do let the heart flee
When our inner man let go

We cry and blame self-onward
When all things look like dead ends
We let go of prayers and words
When in being there God waits

So many things sidesteps our blessings
But worse is leaving the heart uncovered
So many things stand against reasoning
But worse is the natural to spiritual

Our world is built in the heart
Yet many understand not the times
Our lives is in spirituality alert
Yet many the earths doth chock in
Salau O John©

PRAY YOUR WAY
Don’t worry about anything. But pray and ask God for everything you need, and when you pray always give thanks. Philippians. 4 vs. 6. Pray without ceasing. 1Thess.5 vs.17 Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and learn not unto thine own understanding. Prov. 3 vs. 5 — In all thy ways acknowledge him and He shall direct thy path 6

Prayer is necessary in your journey in life; it will help to eliminate any unwanted thinking; keeping your mind focused on the path you are going and making you understand that all that will be will be not by your power but Gods, the supreme ruler of all things.

PRAYERS OR PREY
Prayer stands to call all
But where is the attentive obedience?
On the mountain top non-to fall
But who can stand with confidence?

“Aside you become a prey I say”
I am that to God must forward
But many have relent, neglecting the way’
Fear and anxiety stands your board’

Man becomes a prey without prayers
And communion without closeness derails paths
Even bands and partners no banners
And nothing works when out-gone

Are you a prayer warrior or prey?
For breaking the edge is breaking pledge
Are you unrelenting or in prison?
Both ways calls you; pray and judge!
Salau O John©

FOLLOW THE WORD
Always remember the things written in that book of law. Study that book day and night. Then you can be sure to obey the things that are written there. If you do this then you will be wise and successful in everything you do. Joshua.1 vs.8


Study to show thyself approved unto God a workman that needeth not to be ashamed but rightly dividing the word of truth 2Timothy2 vs.15.

As newborn babes desire the sincere milk of the word that ye may grow thereby. 1Peter2 vs.2 (K-J-V)

To become what you really want to be or get really determined in your focus, you must become a reader of the word.

The word in this context is the “Bible”, the word of God, because it holds the key to unlocking many doors, in business, finance, etc. Being focused is the map to health, wealth and anything imaginable on earth, even in the world beyond.

GIVE YOUR WAY
Honor the Lord with your wealth. Give him the best you have. Then you will have all you need. Your barns will be full of grain and your barrels will be flowing over with wine. Prov.3 vs. 9 — 10 If a person gives freely, then he will gain even more. But if a person refuses to give then he will become poor. A person who gives freely will profit. If you help others, then you will gain more for yourself. Prov.11 vs.24 — 25

The Lord All-Powerful says, “Try this test. Bring one-tenth of your things to me. Put those things in the treasury. Bring food to my house. Test me if you do those things. Then I will truly bless you. Good things will come to you like rain falling from the sky. You will have more than enough of everything. Malachi.3 vs.10

This is another area of becoming what you want to be in life, an aspect that many have found difficult to work in.

Giving is a command of God to increase you and it eliminate the burden of trusting in anything else but God. It helps to show that your source in life is God and nothing else. And truly to increase and become anything without being a giver is not an easy way to life. (Giving of these is important: tithes, offerings, helps, pastoral offerings, charities etc)

DO THE WORK
Lazy person, you should become like the ants. See what the ant does. Learn from the ants…Prov.6 vs. 6 — 8.
Every time you find work to do, do it the best you can. Eccl.9 vs.10

Many have talked and talked without taking the necessary steps to become anything. The fact is no one can become anything in this life without taking a bold step in the direction of it. It is better to do something than talking about it.

START SMALL
Mountains are never climbed from the top
Houses are never built from the roof
And races are not won through the end
But a human in swiftness runs aloof

Top businesses are from the scratch to finish
And man is first a child alive
All trees from seeds must flourish
But men from success wish a start

Everything, life itself is a process
From buds to maturity, a stage
Every animal from infancy must progress
But human beings are but impatience

Small beginnings becomes big endings
And imperfection is little by little perfection
But not all awaits that small beginning
And all things on top will outshine
Salau O John©

RESEARCH YOUR WAY
A fool will believe anything he hears. But a wise man thinks carefully about everything. Prov.14 vs.15

Being excited about something is not enough. You must also know what you are doing. You should not rush into something or you will do it wrong Prov.19 vs.2.

Get good advice before you make plans. If you are starting a war, find people to guide you. Prov.20 vs.18 Prove (test) all things. Hold fast that which is good. 1Thess.5 vs.21 (K-J-V)

This is an important fact in being determined because it helps you to be more focused in the direction of a goal. A person who asks for direction never misses the road; and anybody who makes a good research in the right direction to follow to become whatever, will always find out that making it in anything is easy, if the way is known.

You will need to study the paths that others have tread to become who they are, or found out their mistakes; what makes them tick in their pursuit in life and their goals, or what motivate them after all they must have gone through.

From the Book: The Power Of Determination
Coming Soon from: Treasured1 Creative Ideas Int.
By: Salau O John
treasured1creativeideas@yahoo.com or treasured100@yahoo.com