What comes first, the note or the music?

In the context of creating music, whether notes or the music itself comes first can vary depending on the composer or songwriter's creative process. There's no fixed rule, and different musicians may approach composition differently. Here are two common approaches:

1. Melody or Music First: Some composers and songwriters begin with a musical idea or melody. They create the core of the music by playing around with chords, melodies, or rhythms on an instrument (e.g., piano, guitar) or through software. Once they have a musical foundation, they may add lyrics, harmonies, and additional instrumentation to complete the piece.

   • Advantages: Starting with the music allows for the development of a strong musical framework and emotional tone. It can also inspire the creation of lyrics that fit the mood and melody.

   • Examples: Many instrumental compositions, classical pieces, and instrumental sections in popular songs are created by first developing the music.

2. Lyrics or Words First: In contrast, some songwriters begin with lyrics or a lyrical idea. They may write down poetry, a story, or a set of lyrics that express a particular theme or emotion. Afterward, they set these words to music by composing melodies and harmonies that fit the lyrics' rhythm and emotional context.

   • Advantages: Starting with lyrics allows for a strong focus on storytelling, message, or theme. The music can then enhance and amplify the emotions and narrative conveyed by the words.

   • Examples: Many folk, pop, and singer-songwriter genres often involve starting with lyrics or a lyrical concept.

It's important to note that the creative process is highly individual, and many musicians may switch between these two approaches or use a combination of both. Additionally, some may draw inspiration from external sources, such as a visual image, a personal experience, or a specific musical motif, which can influence whether they start with notes or lyrics.

Ultimately, what comes first—notes or music—depends on the artist's creative vision and what serves the particular song or composition best. The most important aspect is that the process aligns with the artist's intentions and leads to a piece of music that resonates with both the creator and the audience.