RockOnSongs

David establishes a warm rapport with his students
who respond to his musical humor and entertaining methods of teaching music.

David Meyers Composes
Songs That Appeal
to His Students

Excerpted from his May 2019 Article
published in Autism Parenting Magazine

I have created songs to which I can import lyrics to match his/her interests. This may be a song about a child’s family member, pet, favorite holiday, the weather, a TV show, or a movie character. The student can even help me add lyrics that describe what he/she loves about the song subject. Now the song is all his/her own, which results in easier and more enthusiastic memory recall.

…My beginner songs are based on repeating patterns and easy instrument movements. Song lyrics should not be overly wordy or require a wide vocal range. “Whoa-Whoas” and “La-Las” are easier to process than trying to connect long sentence structures to melody and rhythm. Measured breaks are helpful. They provide cues for the child to process and respond. I also allow the student to experiment with the sounds of the instrument or his/her voice.

…my experience has found that lively, short musical motions are best to gain attention. I have witnessed a link between speedy, peppy music and attention. We live in an environment of fast information. For many, a slower rhythm opens the door to other stimuli, and you lose the attention of many children. As I play a pattern faster and faster, the energy builds, and the child redirects toward the music.

With David’s help, this student has flourished on the guitar and absolutely loves to sing David’s very rhythmic, up-tempo songs with every ounce of his energy.

A Sampling of Songs

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Be My Friend

“How do you make a friend?
All you have to do is ask and play this beginner guitar song.”

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Chips N Guacamole

“Live radio performance with song
about our favorite food. It’s an ear worm.”

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Hit the The Drum 123

“One of my instructional songs. The lyrics tell you what to do!”

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Dinosaur Oh Dinosaur

“My most watched video in Japan. I wish a dino could be my friend.”

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LO LO HI

“My first created “Accessible Music” song made for easy guitar. Just play the low and high pitched guitar strings to the beat and YOU CAN ROCK!”

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Huh Hah

“Original 1980’s film. Gorillas on skis to a funky, vocally accessible tune.”

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Two Arms

“I’ve got two arms, legs and more. But there’s only one me!”

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