As part of our ongoing mission to create a more diverse Jazz industry, we have been contacting publications to ask if they would share their top tips and guidance to help new writers. We have been thrilled by the response and are very happy to publish our first one from Nick Lea, Editor in Chief of Jazz Views

Top tips for new writers

Nick Lea: Editor in Chief of Jazz Views

When writing a review always approach it with an open mind. Often preconceptions about an artist that you either know or have heard about from press releases or colleagues/friends will be at odds with what you are about to listen too. In other words, 'don't judge a book by its cover' and expect the unexpected.

Try not to read other reviews of the album that have been published elsewhere. You do not want the thoughts of others to influence your take on what you are listening too. Sometimes others will also come to the same conclusions as you, and if you have read this elsewhere it may discourage you from writing what you really feel about the music for fear of paraphrasing or echoing the sentiments of another reviewer.

If at all possible, your first listen to the album should be 'blind' without having read the sleeve notes or press releases.

I always like to listen to an album at least 3 or 4 times, usually more, before writing my review. It is okay to make notes at this stage but be prepared to revise or change your opinions as you get to know the music. You will always find things that you have not heard on previous listening.

If you do not like the music, that is fine but do not simply dismiss it. You can write about what you did find interesting and write constructively about what did not appeal. Always remember when reviewing an album that this is the culmination of someone's life work. The hours spent studying, practicing and live performance have all led to the recording you are listening to.

Always be yourself when reviewing albums. It is your opinion that your readers want not a mirror image of what they may have read elsewhere. We all hear music from different perspectives, we may be musicians or have no musical or theoretical knowledge but just enjoy listening, but your opinion in well written and thought-out review will be valued.

Above all, enjoy the process of writing the review!