Complete Guide to “What Baking Can Do” Sheet Music

What happens when the notes of a musical meet the aroma of a freshly baked pie? Have you ever wondered about the magic behind the song “What Baking Can Do” from the hit musical Waitress? It’s more than just a catchy tune; it’s a journey through emotions, a story told through the lens of baking. Many find themselves lost in the lyrics, seeking a deeper understanding of the song’s message and its connection to the art of baking.

“What Baking Can Do” is about finding solace, empowerment, and a sense of control through the act of baking during challenging times. It highlights baking’s therapeutic power, allowing the protagonist to channel her emotions and find a sense of purpose.

As someone who’s spent countless hours in the kitchen, experimenting with recipes, and even more hours enjoying the soulful tunes of Broadway, I’ve developed a unique appreciation for the powerful message behind this song. There’s an undeniable connection between the creative process of baking and the emotional release found in music. “What Baking Can Do” perfectly captures this intersection. By exploring the lyrics, the context of the musical, and the sheet music, you’ll discover the profound impact that baking can have on our lives and how it can become a powerful tool for self-expression and emotional healing, helping you understand why this song resonates with so many. Get ready to unlock the hidden meanings, explore the sheet music, and discover the therapeutic power of baking!

Key Facts

• “What Baking Can Do” was written by Grammy Award-winning artist Sara Bareilles for the musical Waitress, which premiered in 2015.
• The song is performed by the character Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker, who uses baking as an escape from her unhappy marriage.
• Waitress became the first Broadway musical with an all-female creative team, including Sara Bareilles (music and lyrics), Jessie Nelson (book), Lorin Latarro (choreography), and Diane Paulus (direction).
• The musical Waitress, featuring “What Baking Can Do,” was nominated for four Tony Awards in 2016, including Best Musical and Best Original Score.
• A study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology found that engaging in creative activities like baking can lead to increased positive emotions and well-being.

What is the Core Message of “What Baking Can Do”?

At its heart, “What Baking Can Do” is a powerful anthem about finding solace and strength in the simple act of baking. The song delves into the transformative power of creation, illustrating how focusing on a tangible task like baking can provide a sense of control and peace amidst life’s challenges. Jenna, the protagonist, pours her heart and soul into her pies, each ingredient representing a different emotion or struggle she’s facing.

The lyrics beautifully depict baking as a form of therapy, a way to channel emotions into something tangible and delicious. As Jenna mixes flour, sugar, and butter, she’s not just making a pie; she’s creating a space for herself to process her feelings and find a sense of purpose. This message resonates deeply with anyone who has ever found comfort in the kitchen during difficult times. It’s a reminder that even the simplest acts can have a profound impact on our emotional well-being.

What is the Musical Context of “What Baking Can Do” in Waitress?

“What Baking Can Do” appears early in Act I of Waitress, serving as an introduction to Jenna’s character and her passion for baking. Trapped in an unhappy marriage and facing an unplanned pregnancy, Jenna finds refuge in her job at the diner and her extraordinary talent for creating unique and delicious pies. The song sets the stage for the entire musical, highlighting the importance of baking in Jenna’s life.

This musical number reveals how Jenna uses baking to escape the harsh realities of her life. Each pie she creates is inspired by her current circumstances, becoming a tangible representation of her inner world. The diner, and specifically the pie-making, becomes her sanctuary, a place where she can exert some control over her life. This context is crucial to understanding the depth and emotional weight of the song. It’s not just about baking; it’s about survival, hope, and the search for happiness.

How Does “What Baking Can Do” Reflect Jenna’s Emotional State?

The lyrics of “What Baking Can Do” are a direct reflection of Jenna’s inner turmoil and her yearning for a better life. She sings about using baking to “make a mess” and then “clean it up,” symbolizing her desire to take control of her chaotic life and create something beautiful out of it. The act of baking becomes a metaphor for her emotional journey throughout the musical.

Each verse reveals another layer of Jenna’s emotional state. She bakes to find a sense of order, to express her creativity, and to cope with her feelings of being trapped. The ingredients she uses – sugar, butter, flour – become symbols of her emotions, her dreams, and her struggles. The song masterfully portrays how Jenna pours her heart into each pie, using baking as a form of emotional expression and a pathway to finding her own strength. The detailed process of baking, as described in the song, mirrors her meticulous approach to navigating her complex emotional landscape.

What are the Key Musical Elements of “What Baking Can Do”?

“What Baking Can Do” is written in Gb Major, a key often associated with warmth and richness, which perfectly complements the song’s themes of comfort and emotional depth. The moderately paced melody, driven by a gentle piano accompaniment, creates an intimate and reflective atmosphere. The music mirrors the methodical and rhythmic nature of baking, with each note and chord carefully placed, much like the ingredients in a recipe.

The song’s structure follows a traditional Broadway style, with verses that build in intensity and a chorus that serves as a powerful emotional release. Sara Bareilles’ signature pop-infused style shines through, blending seamlessly with the musical theater genre. The arrangement features subtle dynamic shifts, reflecting the ebb and flow of Jenna’s emotions as she navigates her challenges and finds solace in baking. The harmonies add depth and complexity, enhancing the overall emotional impact of the piece.

How Can You Obtain the Sheet Music for “What Baking Can Do”?

Finding the sheet music for “What Baking Can Do” is relatively straightforward, thanks to the popularity of Waitress. The most reliable source is Musicnotes.com, which offers a digital, printable version of the sheet music. It is available for instant download, making it convenient for musicians eager to learn the song.

Another option is Sheet Music Direct, which provides the sheet music for piano and vocal, arranged by Sara Bareilles herself. This ensures an authentic and accurate representation of the song as it is performed in the musical. Additionally, websites like Musescore offer user-generated arrangements, providing alternative versions that might suit different skill levels or instrumentation preferences.

What is the Significance of the Key of Gb Major in “What Baking Can Do”?

The choice of Gb Major for “What Baking Can Do” is far from arbitrary. This key is often described as having a rich, warm, and full tone, which aligns perfectly with the emotional themes of the song. Gb Major is also known for its lyrical quality, making it an ideal choice for a song that expresses deep emotions and personal reflection. The warmth of this key enhances the feeling of comfort and solace that Jenna finds in baking.

Moreover, Gb Major is considered a relatively complex key, which subtly mirrors the complexity of Jenna’s situation and the intricate nature of her emotions. It adds a layer of sophistication to the music, reflecting the depth of her character and her journey. The key choice contributes significantly to the overall mood and atmosphere of the song, reinforcing its message of finding beauty and comfort in the midst of challenges.

How Does the Melody of “What Baking Can Do” Enhance Its Emotional Impact?

The melody of “What Baking Can Do” is carefully crafted to enhance the emotional journey of the song. It begins with a gentle, almost hesitant quality, reflecting Jenna’s initial vulnerability and uncertainty. As the song progresses, the melody gradually builds in strength and intensity, mirroring her growing confidence and determination. The use of a moderately paced tempo allows the listener to fully absorb the lyrics and the emotional weight they carry.

The chorus features a soaring melody that provides a powerful emotional release, symbolizing Jenna’s hope and resilience. The melodic contour throughout the song mimics the process of baking, with its ups and downs, its careful measurements, and its moments of intense heat. This melodic structure helps to create a strong connection between the music and the lyrical content, enhancing the overall impact of the song. The melody guides the listener through Jenna’s emotional landscape, making the song’s message even more powerful.

What Role Does Rhythm Play in “What Baking Can Do”?

Rhythm plays a crucial role in “What Baking Can Do,” mirroring the methodical and rhythmic actions involved in baking. The steady, consistent rhythm of the piano accompaniment creates a sense of stability and grounding, reflecting the comfort and routine that Jenna finds in the kitchen. This rhythmic foundation provides a sense of order and predictability, contrasting with the chaos of her personal life.

The rhythmic patterns also help to emphasize key moments in the lyrics, drawing attention to important phrases and emotional turning points. The subtle shifts in rhythm throughout the song add a layer of dynamic interest, keeping the listener engaged and reflecting the ebb and flow of Jenna’s emotions. The rhythmic structure of the song reinforces its themes of finding order and control through the act of baking, making it a powerful and relatable piece.

How Does “What Baking Can Do” Fit into the Overall Narrative of Waitress?

“What Baking Can Do” is a pivotal song in the narrative arc of Waitress, serving as both an introduction to Jenna’s character and a recurring motif throughout the musical. It establishes baking as her primary coping mechanism and a source of strength. The themes introduced in this song – hope, resilience, and self-discovery – are central to the overall story. This song lays the foundation for understanding Jenna’s motivations and her journey toward self-empowerment.

Throughout the musical, Jenna’s pies continue to reflect her emotional state and her evolving relationships. “What Baking Can Do” sets the stage for this narrative device, highlighting the importance of baking in her life. It also foreshadows her eventual decision to take control of her life and pursue her dreams. The song’s message of finding strength through creativity and passion resonates throughout the entire musical, making it a cornerstone of the Waitress narrative.

Tip: To fully appreciate the significance of “What Baking Can Do” within the context of Waitress, consider listening to the entire cast album or, even better, watching a live performance of the musical. This will provide a deeper understanding of how the song fits into the overall narrative and how it contributes to Jenna’s character development.

FAQs About what baking can do sheet music

What is the song “What Baking Can Do” about?

The song “What Baking Can Do” from the musical Waitress is about finding solace, empowerment, and a sense of control through baking during challenging times. It highlights how the act of baking can be therapeutic.

Who wrote the music and lyrics for “What Baking Can Do”?

Sara Bareilles wrote both the music and lyrics for “What Baking Can Do.”

Where can I find the sheet music for “What Baking Can Do”?

You can find the sheet music for “What Baking Can Do” on websites like Musicnotes.com and Sheet Music Direct.

What key is “What Baking Can Do” written in?

“What Baking Can Do” is written in Gb Major.

What is the time signature of “What Baking Can Do”?

The time signature of “What Baking Can Do” is 4/4.

Is “What Baking Can Do” a solo or ensemble piece in the musical?

“What Baking Can Do” is a solo piece performed by the character Jenna in the musical Waitress.

What is the vocal range required for “What Baking Can Do”?

The vocal range for “What Baking Can Do” is typically for a mezzo-soprano, spanning from approximately G3 to Eb5.

Are there different arrangements available for “What Baking Can Do”?

Yes, various arrangements of “What Baking Can Do” are available, including piano-vocal, SSA (Soprano-Soprano-Alto), and solo piano versions.

What musical style does “What Baking Can Do” represent?

“What Baking Can Do” represents a blend of contemporary musical theater and pop, characteristic of Sara Bareilles’ style.

What makes “What Baking Can Do” a significant song in Waitress?

“What Baking Can Do” is significant because it introduces the protagonist’s coping mechanism of baking, setting the tone for her character’s development and the musical’s themes of empowerment and self-discovery.

Summary

“What Baking Can Do” transcends a typical musical number, becoming a powerful statement about the therapeutic and transformative power of baking. It showcases how creative expression, even in everyday activities like baking, can provide solace, empowerment, and a sense of control. The song’s placement in Waitress highlights its importance to the overall narrative, emphasizing themes of resilience, hope, and self-discovery.

Through its heartfelt lyrics, warm melody in Gb Major, and rhythmic structure, the song resonates with anyone who has found comfort in the kitchen during tough times. Whether you’re a seasoned baker, a musical enthusiast, or someone seeking a deeper understanding of this touching piece, “What Baking Can Do” offers a unique and inspiring perspective on the power of combining passion with creativity. What will you discover about yourself through the art of baking?