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When & Where

Quick Facts

  • Availability Late starts accepted
  • Tutor Darren Mason
  • Course Code W24MPPL03A
  • Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

Ever wanted to write a song, but not sure how to get started? Got a few lyric ideas but no melodies to go with them? These workshops and seminars will help bring your ideas to life, shaping them and giving you a stronger foundation for creativity. By studying songwriters and their techniques, gain insight into how to generate ideas from everyday topics and reflect on your own creations, in a friendly and supportive environment.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  • Find inspiration for new songs from different starting points
  • Write better lyrics
  • Find sources of musical ideas to develop your creation
  • Gain confidence in sharing your work, using feedback to develop

Class format and activities

Talks, Listening assignments, Note taking, Practical workshops, Group vocal warm-ups, In-class performances, Class discussion, Peer reviews, Group work, Pair work, Project work

Entry requirements

You will have a strong interest in songwriting and a desire to improve. You do NOT need to be a strong singer or instrumentalist, but a rudimentary ability to create either live or recorded/programmed music via instrument or DAW is essential. Lyricist non-musicians and musician non-lyricists are welcome.

What you need to know before you enrol

You will be required to ‘perform’ your work-in-progress songs during class. However, there is a big difference between performance-level vocals and merely using one’s voice to communicate song ideas. This course requires the latter. You will not be judged on your voice or instrumental skill, and this course provides an excellent opportunity to improve one’s confidence in this regard.

What you need

Pen and paper, instrument (or laptop/tablet for those using a DAW)

What you can do next

Next term’s songwriting course, Recording & Music Production, Various instrumental and vocal courses: Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Soul, Pop and Rock Vocals etc.