Writing music can often be a tricky process if you don't approach it in the right way! There are two methods you can use, the first being using chords as a foundation then finding a melody to fit the chords. The second is coming up with a melody first, then finding the chords to fit.

METHOD ONE: This is often the preferred choice for musicians who play guitar or piano. You can improvise on your instrument until you find a chord sequence or riff you like, then improvise melody lines over the top either vocally or on your instrument until something sticks! This is probably the most popular technique used by composers and songwriters alike.

PROS: You can be sure you have a strong musical base as a foundation for your melody.

CONS: You can occasionally  find your melodies limited by the chords you're using

METHOD TWO: This method is the favorite of non-musician singers. You can literally make up songs in your head all day. You know how people sometimes wander round the house humming a tune? Well you can do exactly the same thing to write. Just try to create some cool melodies, lyrics or vocal hooks either out loud or in your head. The great thing is you can write wherever you are at whatever time! Just make sure you carry a recording device to capture those ideas!

PROS: You can write all the time, whether you're driving to work, shopping...anything!

CONS: Your melodies can come out rather unfocused meandering around the vocal range. Just make sure you try and keep them relatively simple so people can sing along!

The main lesson to be learned when working with melody when you're making msuic is to ensure they are focused, easy to remember and don't wander too far up and down the vocal range. Remember you want your listeners to be humming your tunes all day, so keep them simple!