Songwriter and producer Anna Lavrukhina: "Morgenstern is my spirit animal" / ITech content

Contents:

• How to Write a Hit
• The Internet vs. TV
• International Panorama
• Can I Become a Successful Songwriter?
• Blitz

I was born in Moscow and was educated both in Russia and abroad, including Finland and the Netherlands. I have two degrees: one from Tampere University of Applied Sciences in Music Production and Music Business, and the other from Moscow Music School in Songwriter and Performer. I also studied at the Minerva Art Academy in Leeuwarden.

Anna is an experienced producer and songwriter, actively involved in online projects and advertising campaigns. She made significant contributions to the creation of the modern musical "Romeo and Juliet" and the soundtrack for the film "Dr. Lisa," and has worked on numerous other musical projects. Anna currently collaborates with the Skillbox platform as a guest lecturer on the "Songwriter Profession" course and serves as a songwriting expert, sharing her knowledge and experience with future professionals in this field.

In this interview, Anna shared her thoughts and experiences. She spoke about her professional achievements, as well as the importance of following your goals and dreams. Anna emphasized that success requires perseverance and constant self-development. She also discussed the importance of support from loved ones and colleagues in achieving goals. Her experience is inspiring and motivating, showing that difficulties can be overcome if you believe in yourself and work hard towards your dreams.

• What is songwriting and what are its features;
• When will our musicians conquer the West;
• What happened to Eurovision;
• Is it possible to become a songwriter without an ear for music and a musical education.

How to Write a Hit

Songwriting is the process of creating musical works, which includes writing both music and lyrics. It is the art of combining melody and words to convey specific emotions and ideas. Songwriters create memorable melodies and expressive lyrics that resonate with audiences. Songwriting, then, isn't just music or lyrics, but the harmonious integration of both elements into a cohesive whole. Songwriting is the art of songwriting. A song, in its simplest sense, consists of melodically and rhythmically organized lyrics. More fundamentally, a song includes lyrics, harmony, and melody. Melody can be either vocal or instrumental, where you perform the melody on a musical instrument, complementing it with harmony, and pronounce the lyrics separately. It's also worth noting that songs can be performed a cappella, that is, with just your voice, without musical accompaniment. Songwriting is a key element of the music industry that requires creativity and composition skills.

Yes, indeed, many modern hits and popular songs use the golden sequence and the circle of fifths in their composition. These musical structures provide a harmonic foundation that engages listeners and creates memorable melodies. The golden sequence, consisting of a combination of chords, is often used to create an emotional background and make a track recognizable. The circle of fourths, in turn, helps composers form chord chains that flow smoothly into one another, creating a harmonious sound. Thus, the use of these musical concepts is a common practice in modern music production, confirming their importance in the creation of popular songs.

Knowledge of music theory is not necessary to create successful musical works. A basic musical education can be useful, but there are many examples of people without solfeggio skills creating true masterpieces. At the same time, I have met many academically educated musicians who seek my tutoring because many aspects they learned in music schools or conservatories prove less practical. This confirms that creativity and intuition can be much more important than formal musical knowledge.

At a songwriting workshop in the Netherlands, we met with the producer of Martin Garrix, a famous EDM artist. He shared an interesting fact: in the studio, Martin uses squares in a DAW, relying on his ear, as he doesn't know notes. Despite this, he managed to become three times the best DJ in the world according to DJ Mag. This case demonstrates that a successful career in music does not always require traditional knowledge, but rather talent and creativity.

The Internet vs. TV

Modern Russian music is often criticized for its low quality. But is this criticism really justified? In recent years, there has been a tendency to simplify musical compositions and lyrics, which has caused dissatisfaction among listeners. However, it is worth noting that the Russian music industry also has talented artists who create high-quality and profound works. It's important to remember that musical taste varies from person to person, and what one considers poor music may be perceived as art by another. Criticism of contemporary music can be justified, but it also opens up opportunities for discussion and the search for new sounds and styles.

In Russia, there's a tendency toward dramatization, with people prone to criticize their lives, the environment, and the music they listen to. However, I don't share the opinion that everything is bad here, including in the music industry. In fact, there are no serious problems. The difficulties arise for those who remain idle and prefer to complain about life. In response to this, I want to emphasize that we have high-quality music created for the people. Music reflects our emotions and experiences, and it resonates with listeners, which testifies to its relevance and significance.

If the population has a certain level of needs and interests, it is necessary to offer goods and services that meet these requirements. Retailers must consider the preferences of the audience and adapt their offerings to better meet customer expectations. This will not only increase sales but also strengthen brand trust, which in turn will lead to long-term relationships with consumers.

Over time, the level of understanding and analysis increases. I get upset when people claim that no one understands music and that any work will be accepted without criticism. In fact, the situation is different. I am interested in studying people's musical preferences and what really captivates them. I observe the mechanisms behind the success of certain tracks. What makes it into the charts does not happen by chance; there are many factors behind it that require deep analysis and understanding.

The nineties left a noticeable mark on the music industry. During this time, the group "VIA Gra" released albums consisting of only three new songs, and the rest of the time was filled with low-quality remixes of original tracks. This became a common occurrence, and many listeners took such albums for granted. At the time, the scene was dominated by production projects and performers who weren't always able to boast high-quality vocals. However, this is gradually changing. The music market is being transformed by the internet, giving listeners choice and variety. Analog producers like Drobysh and Fadeev once defined the musical landscape, but now new technologies are opening the door to independent artists and high-quality content.

Those who are wary of the internet and still consider television to be the primary source of concert events should consider several alternative approaches. Firstly, it is worth paying attention to accessible online platforms that offer high-quality music broadcasts and concert recordings. This will allow you to expand your horizons and discover new artists and genres. Secondly, you can take advantage of the opportunities offered by social media, where artists actively share their work and new projects. Finally, it is worth remembering that many traditional television channels are also beginning to introduce online broadcasts of their programs, which could become a bridge between traditional television and modern digital technologies. Thus, the combination of old and new media can enrich the cultural experience and help discover new musical impressions.

Television has always set trends and shaped public opinion. An example of a successful project is the program "Evening Urgant," in which music editor Sergei Mudrik invites bands that have performed at various festivals. This gives viewers the opportunity to get acquainted with new artists. However, it is worth noting that for the artists themselves, participation in the program does not bring significant results. Their listeners remain the same, and often their audience does not grow. Thus, despite the program's popularity, its impact on the artists' careers is limited.

People passionate about new and current music often ignore television. They prefer to search for and discover fresh music hits through online platforms and streaming services. This allows them to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and discover unique sounds that are not always broadcast on television. In today's world, digital technology and social media are becoming the primary source of musical discovery, radically changing the way we search for and experience music. Comparing musical preferences between generations remains relevant today. There are two groups of listeners: those who enjoy pop music, as they did 20-30 years ago with "Laskovy Mai," and others, like my father, who prefer rock bands like The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, and Sting. These rock fans, despite the passage of time, continue to attend concerts of their idols whenever possible. Interestingly, the number of rock music fans has always been smaller than those interested in pop culture, highlighting the diversity of musical tastes and their importance in shaping cultural identity. In fact, the number of educated and musically gifted people has always been small. This situation is observed not only in our country, but throughout the world.

We constantly strive to conquer the global music scene, but only t.A.T.u. achieved this success two decades ago. Perhaps it's time to reconsider our ambitions and abandon attempts to gain international recognition.

When ABBA began their career, they did not aim to conquer the global market. Likewise, Max Martin also did not initially have the goal of conquering show business on the international arena. However, his trip to the United States and collaboration with Britney Spears led to his worldwide fame. Expecting success to come automatically while living in Uryupinsk is irrational. It is important to take action, seek out opportunities to collaborate with producers, and, if necessary, relocate. Success requires proactive steps and a willingness to change the environment.

t.A.T.u. is a unique musical project that has achieved significant heights, but has not gained widespread popularity in the West. Despite this, the band enjoyed enormous success in Asia, particularly China, selling out arenas and attracting a dedicated fan base. In the United States, their audience was significantly smaller and they failed to achieve the same level of recognition. Nevertheless, t.A.T.u. remains an important part of the musical culture of the early 2000s and continues to attract interest thanks to their original style and provocative themes.

Russian rock bands such as Leningrad and Mumiy Troll are popular in the United States. Many Russian musicians take part in European tours, demonstrating a growing interest in Russian rock music outside the country. This opens up new opportunities for artists and promotes cultural exchange.

Max Fadeev founded the band Serebro with the aim of expanding into the international music scene.

Serebro created its musical composition with the specifics of the Japanese market in mind. This decision was driven by a desire to attract the attention of a Japanese audience and adapt the band's sound to local tastes. Serebro's music, known for its vibrant melodies and catchy lyrics, has resonated with listeners in Japan thanks to its unique elements and depth of content.

Despite the current challenges of closed borders, the music scene continues to thrive. Russian-language artists continue to successfully tour Europe and countries like Turkey. While their concerts don't pack huge stadiums, this doesn't diminish their popularity. It's important to stop obsessing over the idea of ​​being first or conquering the West. For example, a couple of years ago, Vitas performed at the Tomorrowland festival, and DJ Timmy Trumpet performed his tracks with his vocals, demonstrating interest in Russian music on the international stage.

The problem isn't the quality of our music, but the lack of serious promotion. Without effective marketing and distribution, talent goes unnoticed, even if their work is worthy of attention. Efforts are needed to create a promotional strategy that will allow musicians to bring their work to a wider audience.

Russian rappers often use a specific rapping style, which can make the lyrics difficult to understand. This is due to the peculiarities of the language, as well as the desire to create a unique sound. Their performance style includes swallowing words and using unclear articulation, which makes some lines difficult to understand. This approach can be part of the artistic expression, allowing to convey the emotion and atmosphere of the track. It is important to note that rap is not only about the lyrics; rhythm and accents also play a key role in perception. Therefore, to deeply understand Russian-language rap, it's important to consider not only the lyrics but also the overall musical composition.

Modern rap is characterized by a unique delivery style, where artists often swallow word endings and shorten them. This allows them to better fit the rhythm and creates an interesting sound. By breaking words and combining them, rappers imbue their lyrics with a special energy, making them more dynamic and appealing. This approach certainly sets new rap apart from traditional Russian literary language, opening up new horizons for self-expression and creative experimentation.

International Panorama

We've sorted out our team of musicians, but the situation with foreign songs raises questions. What happened to the Eurovision Song Contest?

The Eurovision Song Contest has long ceased to be a purely musical event, becoming an arena for political clashes. Overt manifestations of political struggle, such as the vengeful gesture toward Britain after Brexit, only confirm this fact. This year, Eurovision also became a vibrant show, with most participants delivering impressive performances. This underscores that even the most talented song can go unnoticed if the performance lacks energy and emotional charge. It's important to remember that spectacle and drive play a key role in the perception of a musical work.

The Billie Eilish phenomenon lies in her unique approach to music and self-expression. If you look at her work without reference to her image, arrangements, and music videos, you will notice that many of her songs have a simple structure and straightforward melodies. However, she skillfully combines personal and emotional themes, which resonates with listeners. This paradox attracts attention and allows her music to remain relevant. Eilish creates an atmosphere of sincerity, which makes her songs memorable and relatable for many. This is the reason why her performances sell out stadiums.

It is impossible to disagree with the opinion about Billie Eilish. She represents a high-quality and carefully thought-out musical project. Eilish performs music in the lo-fi genre, which is currently enjoying great popularity. One should not forget the factor of luck: the time has come when listeners have tired of artificial electronic sounds, and a young woman with sincere experiences has entered the music scene. The intriguing story of how she and her brother created music in their bedroom adds a touch of romance to her image. However, behind the sound quality are professional sound engineers, whose work is quite expensive. Thus, Billie Eilish's success is the result not only of talent but also of hard work, practice, and a bit of luck. Sweden is known for its outstanding contribution to the global music industry. The country has produced many talented artists and songwriters who have created hits that have gained international recognition. One of the reasons for this success is the high quality of music education and a well-developed infrastructure for supporting young talent. The Swedish music scene has a unique capacity for innovation and experimentation, allowing artists to discover new sounds and styles. Furthermore, the country boasts a vibrant professional community of producers and songwriters who help musicians develop their ideas and achieve commercial success.

The collaborative and collaborative atmosphere in Sweden's music scene fosters the creation of unique works that resonate with a wide audience. These factors make Sweden one of the leading producers of hit music on the global stage.

Sweden, like other Scandinavian countries, is a significant source of musical talent and hits. The country is home to many renowned artists who have left a significant mark on the global music industry. Among them are the legendary group ABBA, which opened the doors to global show business, as well as such outstanding composers and performers as Max Martin, Tove Lo, Lykke Li, and Robyn. Swedish music continues to influence the global scene, bringing unique melodies and styles.

Education in Scandinavia is characterized by a high level of quality and accessibility. From an early age, children are taught several languages, which contributes to their successful communication and cultural integration. Scandinavians often watch films without subtitles, which helps them develop language skills. Furthermore, Scandinavian countries have closer cultural ties to the United States than to the rest of Europe. This may explain their tendency to orient themselves towards American culture and practices.

The Swedish sound is associated with the perfect canonical pop track 99.9% of the time. This recognizable sound is easy to distinguish. Perhaps this is the secret to the success of the Swedish music industry.

Can I become a successful songwriter?

If you have no ear for music or instrumental skills, but you aspire to write songs, it is entirely possible. First, start by studying song structure. Familiarize yourself with different genres and styles to understand how melodies and lyrics are created. Second, develop your lyric writing skills. Write about your feelings, experiences, and stories, using simple words and rhymes. Third, use available technology. There are many apps and programs that will help you create melodies even without a musical education. The main thing is not to be afraid to experiment and share your ideas. You can write songs even without musical skills.

Anyone can become a songwriter, even if they have no singing skills. It's important to note that songwriting doesn't require the ability to write music or play a musical instrument. While these skills are a plus, they're not required. The key is the ability to create high-quality lyrics and memorable hooks. You can collaborate successfully with composers, producers, or vocalists, allowing you to create unique musical works. Therefore, even without a musical education, you can succeed as a songwriter. Anyone can write a song. Writing music is an accessible art that doesn't require any special skills or education. The key is the desire to express your thoughts and feelings through words and melodies. There are no strict rules that limit creativity, so everyone can find their own unique style and voice. Many famous composers began with simple melodies and lyrics that evolved and became more complex over time. Songwriting is not only a talent but also a practice, so it's important not to be afraid to experiment and try new ideas. Write, get inspired, and develop your musical skills.

Achieving a high level of mastery requires time and regular practice. It is essential to devote sufficient attention and effort. However, it is quite achievable.

To become a successful songwriter in Russia, you need to develop several key skills. First and foremost, it is important to have good lyric writing skills, which includes the ability to create melodic and memorable lines. Knowledge of music theory and various genres will help you create diverse compositions that match current trends.

It is also necessary to develop a sense of rhythm and melody so that the lyrics blend harmoniously with the music. The ability to work in a team, especially with composers and performers, is an important aspect of a successful songwriter career. In addition, knowledge of the music industry market and the ability to promote your work will help you stand out from the competition and attract the attention of listeners.

Equally important is constant self-improvement and an openness to new ideas, which will allow you to create unique and original songs. Participating in music competitions and online platforms can be a great way to gain feedback and expand your audience. It's also important to stay on top of current trends and audience preferences to create in-demand content. Adapting to different situations is an essential skill in today's world. Key soft skills include negotiation, active listening, discipline, and knowledge of copyright laws. It's also important to stay current and manage your time effectively to successfully multitask. These skills contribute not only to personal but also professional development, enabling success in a variety of fields. My teaching method is based on an individual approach to each student. I strive to create a comfortable atmosphere in which everyone can freely express their thoughts and ask questions. An important part of my approach is the use of a variety of teaching methods and materials to make the learning process more engaging and effective. I emphasize the practical application of knowledge, which allows students to better absorb the material and develop critical thinking. I also regularly assess my students' progress and tailor the curriculum to their needs and goals. My teaching approach is focused not only on imparting knowledge but also on building confidence and the ability to apply acquired skills in real-life situations.

I teach students using a layered approach. They come with specific needs, which we address throughout the course. I provide a theoretical foundation and teach songwriting techniques, emphasizing homework. Students begin writing music almost from the very first lesson, even if they have no songwriting experience. I quickly identify each student's strengths and adjust the curriculum to achieve maximum results. This allows everyone to receive the necessary support and develop their songwriting skills.

I am passionate about my work and prefer to create unique templates rather than using uniform solutions for all clients.

I provide proven methods that are truly effective. I share specific techniques based on my own experience and that of my colleagues. My goal is always to bring the process to a successful end.

A diploma will be of no use if you don't start writing. Waiting for inspiration can drag on, and you risk not writing a single line for a year. It's important to start working on your diploma to achieve results and complete it. Don't let time go to waste; start writing today.

The songwriting course at Skillbox stands out from other programs thanks to its unique structure and approach to teaching. We offer hands-on training that allows students to not only learn theory but also apply their acquired knowledge. Unlike other courses, our course includes real-world projects and mentorship from experienced professionals in music production and lyric writing. We also focus on developing each student's individual style, which helps them create unique songs and lyrics. Join us to receive a high-quality education and in-demand songwriting skills.

Any educational institution has mandatory courses that must be studied, even if they have no practical application. Lectures are often filled with unnecessary information and taught by theorists who have no practical experience in writing music. This creates a gap between theory and practical experience, which can negatively impact students' preparation for professional work. It's important to remember that successful mastery of musical art requires a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, which allows for the development of creative skills and the development of an individual approach to music production.

I see no point in theory that has no practical application. That's why we don't devote time to this.

Stream education does not aim to provide individual training to specific people, such as Masha or Petya. Each participant gets the opportunity to master the material at their own pace. The program is general, and if your goal is to create commercial music or write custom music, you will still need to invest several years in studying music history, solfeggio, and the basics of composition. This knowledge is useful and important, although it can be considered optional.

By collaborating with me, you will significantly save time, which is one of your most valuable resources. Don't waste years searching for the right solutions - entrust this task to a professional.

Blitz

Comparing The Beatles and The Rolling Stones is an eternal topic of discussion among rock music fans. Both bands had a huge impact on the music industry, but their styles and approaches to creativity differ significantly. The Beatles, formed in Liverpool in the early 60s, became pioneers of pop rock, introducing elements of psychedelia into their music and experimenting with new sounds. Their work has become a symbol of an entire era, and their hits such as "Hey Jude" and "Let It Be" remain popular to this day.

On the other hand, The Rolling Stones, who formed a little later, embody a more raw and aggressive style of rock music. Their music is infused with rhythm and blues and rock 'n' roll, and songs such as "Paint It Black" and "Satisfaction" have become classics of the genre. The Rolling Stones are known for their stage presence and energy, which has made them iconic figures in the music world.

Both bands left an indelible mark on music history, and choosing between them often comes down to personal preference. The Beatles brought melody and harmony, while the Rolling Stones gave the world wildness and drive. Ultimately, both bands deserve recognition for their contributions to the development of rock music and culture as a whole.

Choosing the perfect boyfriend is not an easy task. If I had to choose, I would prefer Mick Jagger. Rockers always bring bright emotions and adventures to life. However, if we talk about musical creativity, I would like to write songs with the legendary band The Beatles. Their work is inspiring and leaves an unforgettable mark on music.

Michael Jackson and Madonna are two legends of world music who have had a huge influence on pop culture. Both artists become symbols of entire eras and represent different musical styles. Michael Jackson, known as the 'King of Pop', became an icon thanks to his innovative musical styles, original dance moves, and outstanding music videos. His hits, such as 'Billie Jean' and 'Thriller', remain popular and inspire new generations of performers.

On the other hand, Madonna, the 'Queen of Pop', is known for her provocative imagery, experimentation with musical styles, and bold lyrics. She has become a symbol of female strength and independence, and her hits, such as 'Like a Virgin', and "Vogue", cemented her status as one of the most influential women in the music industry.

Comparing Michael Jackson and Madonna, it can be noted that both artists made a significant contribution to the development of music and culture, each in their own unique style. Their work continues to inspire and influence modern musical art.

Madonna is an outstanding artist with a unique style and impeccable taste. Nevertheless, Michael Jackson's songs left an indelible mark on musical culture, and I know them almost by heart. Jackson continues to inspire millions of people around the world with her hits and unrivaled talent.

Morgenstern and Face are famous artists in Russia who attract attention both for their music and for the scandals associated with their public activities. Both performers were declared foreign agents in Russia, which caused a wide resonance in society. This decision is due to their activity on social media and their influence on the youth audience. Discussions about their work and reputation are becoming increasingly relevant in today's information landscape.

Morgenstern is a shining example of contemporary musical art that combines fun and excitement. This project is not only easy to perceive, but also the result of deep thought and commercial success. It embodies lightness, yet at the same time consists of complex elements. For me, Morgenstern has become a symbol of creativity and inspiration.

What do you mean by a spirit animal? You wouldn't pray to it before bed, would you?

I don't do prayers, but if I had a poster above my bed, I would choose an image of Morgenstern. This artist inspires me and embodies the idea that "anything is possible," which has become my life mantra. His work demonstrates the importance of believing in yourself and following your dreams, no matter the circumstances.