KoKinMa > The Listening Tree > Lantern Songs
Lantern Songs
KoKinMa brings together stories and songs in new and creative ways.
A Lantern Song is a one-to-one commissioned piece of music – an original song written and recorded by me, Anita Boole, in response to something meaningful you choose to share.
The process begins with a conversation. You might talk about an experience, a relationship, a person, a place, or simply whatever feels important at the time. I listen, then write and record a song inspired by what you've shared.
A Lantern Song is not a retelling of your experience. Rather, it's an original song that reaches beyond the experience, drawing on it to find strength, light, hope or release.
If you choose, your song can be hung in The Listening Tree – a growing collection of songs shared for others to discover and listen to.
“Each time I listen, the song reveals something different – sometimes calming, sometimes powerful.”
“It’s become something I return to again and again – not just to listen, but to feel supported and strengthened.”
“My song remains with me. It even plays in my dreams sometimes.”
Lighting a Lantern
1. The conversation begins
The process starts with a 45-minute conversation – spoken, written, or a combination of both. It takes place online and can be arranged to work across different locations and time zones.
There's no need to prepare anything in advance, though some people choose to share a letter or piece of writing, while others simply begin by talking. Both are equally welcome.
2. I listen and create
I consider what has been shared, drawing on the ideas, feelings and details that will shape the song.
3. The songs take shape
I compose, record and produce your Lantern Song.
Its length, structure and musical form develop naturally as the song unfolds, rather than following a predetermined format.
4. You receive your Lantern Song
When the song is complete, I'll share it with you as a finished digital recording, together with the lyrics for you to keep.
The Listening Tree
The Listening Tree is the place where Lantern Songs are hung.
With permission, they become part of KoKinMa – where they may offer something to others who encounter them.
Commissioning a Lantern Song
Commission
£777 per Lantern Song
Includes the full creative process, finished recording and lyric sheet.
Timescale
Allow approximately 4–6 weeks from the initial conversation for the finished song to be completed. This allows time for writing, composing, recording and producing the piece.
What you'll receive
Your finished Lantern Song will be provided as a high-quality digital recording, together with the lyrics, presented for you to keep.
Booking
When you commission a Lantern Song, you're reserving a place within one of my Open Seasons.
I'll be in touch by email to arrange your initial 45-minute conversation, which can take place via an online call, a written exchange, or a combination of both.
Open Seasons
Lantern Songs are offered as one-to-one commissions, with a limited number of places available during each Open Season. This allows me to give each song the time and attention it requires.
If you'd like to enquire about commissioning a Lantern Song, you can register your interest and be notified when my next Open Season begins.