Songwriting+Class

In the class children will work in small groups along with the instructor to write a song. They will arrange it, select the instrumentation, rehearse the song and finally record their song digitally. In addition to the writing/recording process they will create a promotional package containing their group or individual bio which may include a photo and or band logo design. This is a fun, creative activity that the kids enjoy and helps complete their album package. At the end of the course each child will have a compact disc recording of all songs created during the three week time period as well as their choice of album package artwork.

Children are not limited to working just on their song project. Other children may need help singing a part or playing a percussion instrument or just help with their lyric. This is where everyone benefits from sharing their skills and talent. Assisting others through performing, collaborating or helping in any way will be encouraged in order to create the best quality final project.

The first day or two are spent brainstorming and writing something, anything and everything that might eventually become part of a song. The first objective is to come up with a chorus/refrain and at least one verse. Once they have this it's a lot easier to finish the song lyric and start on the musical arrangement/chord structure melody and instrumentation. For some, like me, the musical ideas come before the words. That's fine too. We still write it down or record it so it's not lost. The rest of the week is spent on the chord structure, melody and musical arrangement and working out and practicing parts. This is where the songs start to come to life!

Week two we should be recording. Certain rhythm section tracks will be prepared in advance by the instructor so that the students can record their vocal parts right away. Those not involved in the particular song actively being recorded will focus on their promo package; bio, band logo, photo and lyric sheet or continue fine tuning their composition and rehearsing parts. The song files will be mixed down and burned to disc and the art work will be printed and assembled into the final package format.

The activities align with the following Language Arts and Music standards:


 * English Language Arts Common Core Standards in Writing and Language
 * Composing and arranging music
 * Evaluating music and music performances
 * Singing alone & with others music from different genres and diverse cultures.
 * Playing instruments alone and with others, music from different genres and diverse cultures

Thank you for the opportunity to teach this exciting course! Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need more information.

Song Samples