By Gabriella Dragone
WOODLAND PARK, NJ - Songwriter Steve Seskin graced the halls of John P. Holland Charter School to conduct a special songwriting workshop with eighth-grade students on Thursday. The workshop aimed to create a unique school song, capturing the essence of the students' journey and experiences.
Seskin is acclaimed for his ability to craft soul-stirring songs that resonate with people of all ages. With an impressive repertoire of songs recorded by notable artists such as Tim McGraw, Neal McCoy, and Peter Frampton, Seskin brings a wealth of experience and talent to the table.
During the workshop, Seskin worked closely with the eighth-grade students, guiding them through the creative process of songwriting from start to finish. The goal was to collaboratively compose a song that encapsulated their time at the school and the transition they are about to embark on as they move into the next phase of their lives.
Speaking about his approach to the workshop, Seskin emphasized the importance of empowering the students to take ownership of the song. He shared his expertise in songwriting while encouraging students to express themselves authentically through music.
"I want the students to feel like they wrote the song themselves," Seskin told TAPinto Paterson. "My role is more of a facilitator, guiding them through the process and helping to shape their ideas into a choice song that they can be proud of."
The workshop, which came at no cost to the school, provided a unique opportunity for the students to learn about song structure, melody, and lyrical composition while fostering teamwork and creativity. By the end of the session, the students had collaboratively written a heartfelt school song that reflected their shared experiences and aspirations.
"Music has the power to unite people and convey powerful messages," Seskin said. "I hope that this song will serve as a lasting reminder of the students' time at John P. Holland Charter School and inspire future generations of students."
Some of the lyrics to the song include:
We are winners (winners never quit) We are winners (cause quitters never win)
We have a “yes I can” attitude
Been through a lot, got a lot to prove
The students will showcase the entire song during their graduation ceremony.