FAQs

DO I NEED TO BE MUSICAL TO PARTICIPATE?

You do not need any musical experience to have a song written. We have a conversation about you or your loved one and then I create a song from what I learn. It's like a musical jigsaw puzzle - you have the pieces, I put them together. 

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

In order to make this service as accessible as possible, this service begins with a base-price with various add-on options available. 

Payment plans are also available upon booking. 

Please contact me directly to discuss your options at bluecedarmusictherapy@gmail.com.
 

WHAT IS THE END PRODUCT?
- an original song to honour your memory or the memory of a deceased loved one, professionally recorded and produced in my home-studio 

- an MP3 of the complete interview 

- lyric artwork (standard size 11'' x 17''; can be made any size for existing picture frames) 

- a chord chart for musical family and friends who may want to learn the song 

-Clients within Kings County, NS will receive a framed version. For online clients, these will be sent electronically using WeTransfer. 
  

DO WE CO-WRITE THE SONG TOGETHER?

Each song is customized to your individual story and is written specifically for you, but it is not a co-write. The questions I ask you will pertain to your personal story and I will write the song for you. I retain all ownership of the song including but not limited to publishing, intellectual property, and master recording. However, I will always ask your permission to share your song in recorded or performance settings.  

In the event you are interested in contributing instrumentation or lyrics for consideration, we can discuss that at the time of commission.  

CAN I MAKE CHANGES ONCE THE SONG IS RECORDED? 

I typically begin writing between 24 - 48 hours after our interview. You are welcome to send me more stories or specifications before then. Once the song is recorded changes cannot be made. I use my discernment and skills as a songwriter and musician to best capture you and your stories.

BESIDES SENDING IT TO MYSELF OR MY LOVED ONES, DO YOU DO ANYTHING ELSE WITH THE SONG AND INTERVIEW?

Before the process begins I will ask for your consent to share the song and/or segments of the interview in live performance and/or recorded settings (this may include on my website, social media, or on stage somewhere!). I allow you, the client, to have control over how I utilize the song. Many folks choose to allow me to share their song publicly as this project is designed to get us more comfortable with talking about death and grief. Your song is a vehicle to do just that. 

I AM NOT AT END-OF-LIFE AND I HAVEN'T LOST A LOVED ONE - CAN I STILL GET A SONG WRITTEN?

Most people who utilize this service are either themselves at end-of-life (through illness or age), or have experienced the death of a loved one. That being said, I have written songs for important events like weddings and birthday celebrations. In their own way, these too become legacies to hold and listen to for years to come. 

WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO KNOW?

Please set aside the time needed for this interview. As the interviews involve emotional material, it is recommended that you leave some time following the interview to rest, reflect, or sit with any emotions that may come up for you. Sarah uses PIPEDA (Canada’s Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act) compliant software Zoom Pro. 

I THINK I NEED PROFESSIONAL HELP.
ARE YOU A COUNSELLING THERAPIST?

I am not a counselling therapist. I am here to listen to your stories and create a song that honours that memory of your legacy or that of your loved one. If you are seeking professional therapy, click here to be connected to the Canadian-wide database of mental health professionals.