- 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 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

Homework Offered
Homework in this class will be optional. For example, students will be encouraged to work on songs/melodies and write lyrics. Students will also be encouraged to keep a daily journal.
Assessments Offered
Informal assessment will be used throughout the songwriting instruction, editing sessions, and sharing. Adjustments will be made based on the student's needs. These adjustments include decisions around goal-setting, advice offered, and optional next steps. Most of all, I hope students feel comfortable and encouraged as songwriters.
Grades Offered