In this one on one class, I help students write songs. I have helped students from various backgrounds write their first song, finish songs they've started, or tweak songs before recording full albums. Students can come with personally prepared songs or start from scratch. This class accommodates students getting started on their creative journey and students well established on a certain instrument wishing to understand the songwriting process better. (Please message me about creating an ongoing private session for your specific student. I can accommodate a variety of 8-4pm CT M-F schedules consistently with request and communication.) When necessary, I teach referencing slide shows I have put together about song-writing and creative thinking. At its heart, my coaching is all about helping students make positive changes in their lives and empowering them with information and accountability.
- Students will learn how to turn situations and thoughts from their own lives into music
- Students will learn how to turn chords into musical sequences
- Students will learn basic song structure and the role of patterns in songwriting
- Students will learn the importance of music theory for songwriting quickly and more efficiently
- Students will learn the importance of creative writing/journaling for songwriters
- Students will learn how songwriters merge lyrics with a melody using awareness of syllables
I encourage students to attend with some way to take notes (tablet, notebook, or whatever's their style).
I have written and recorded 5 albums as a professional singer-songwriter. In fact, I'm working on an album right now and writing songs constantly.
Because I love working with kids, my teaching experience (both formal and informal) is quite extensive. I have worked with ages 3-18, whether through my ten-plus years as a guitar instructor or my ten years in public education. I have formally and informally studied creativity, whether in my master's degree or the numerous nonfiction books I read about it.
CERTIFICATIONS
Department of Education, PK-12 Talented and Gifted
EDUCATION
Masters of Arts in Teaching
Morningside College, Sioux City, IA