Local artist profile: Gail Godber

THIS week we speak with songwriter and associate director of the Bendigo Youth Choir, Gail Godber.

 

What initially motivated you to become a songwriter?

When I moved to Central Victoria, I was the music teacher for a group of primary schools, one of which was Taradale Primary School. There I had the good fortune to meet musician and artist, Team Henderson, whose children attended the school.

Early in my stint we had the opportunity to work as artists in residence at Taradale, and together we wrote a musical about a group of young activists who were worried about climate change. The year was 1989. It went on to receive funding from the State Government’s Greenhouse Unit, and it became CAIGE: Children Against Increased Greenhouse Effect, and was produced in a few other schools.

So began my passion for song writing. We went on to write over a dozen musicals together, always with issues firmly at their heart. Environment, relationships and choices were some of the driving forces of our creations.

 

How would you describe your writing style and how did you develop it?

Collaboration has always been central to my song writing style. Whether writing songs with Team, or writing songs for and with my students, my motivation was to enable the voices of young people to be heard.

Our focus was always that of a ‘perfect world picture’. Whether it was regarding challenging relationships, or negative behaviours, the songs spoke of solutions and kindness and good choices.

Words usually precede lyrics when I’m writing a song – the mood or sentiment of a song would then guide the melody, style and structure.

 

Which other songwriters inspire you?

The Bendigo Youth Choir has been fortunate to work with some incredible composers, as well as perform their works. We commissioned a work from Dan Walker, The Enchanted Hour, and love many of his compositions. I love the music of Carl Vine, Calvin Bowman, Eric Bogle to name a few. Valmai Harris is a prolific composer and colleague at BYC and is also an inspiration. We have both been fortunate indeed to have a vehicle for our compositions.

 

What are some highlights you have from your career so far?

There have been many highlights over the years.

My last musical, a ‘best of’, produced in my final year of teaching at Spring Gully Primary School, with Team and I in the pit at the Capital Theatre, was a culmination of years of collaborative song writing and performance. Seeing the school song I wrote for Kenningon PS sung was amazing, as was travelling to Alice Springs to write a school song at Bradshaw Primary School. I’ve been so incredibly lucky to always be valued where I’ve worked.

 

What would you say to young regional aspiring musicians/songwriters who are thinking of making a go of the creative life?

It fills me with joy to hear that my students who began honing their song writing skills in school are flourishing. Music is such a powerful medium for communication. My advice is: practice, practice, practice. Perform your work before an audience, whenever you get the chance. Don’t be too precious about asking for feedback, we don’t always hear our work the way others do. Find your authentic voice. It may take you a while, but it will eventually stand you apart from the rest.

Finally, find a mentor. Someone who can support, guide and encourage you.