What's included
5 live meetings
4 hrs 10 mins in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. Students will be given an optional lyric writing exercise to complete outside of class time. They will be shared in the following class if desired!Assessment
no formal assessmentClass Experience
US Grade 7 - 10
In this 4-week course, we will go over the basics of lyric writing. Each class is designed to balance slideshow lecture/lessons with creative exercises to apply what we learn that day. Week 1, we will look at examples of traditional and modern lyric forms in a variety of genres, and learn common tips and tricks in developing 'lyric seeds'. Week 2, we will learn common how to work with poetic elements such as rhyme schemes, prosody, consonance, and how to avoid common cliches in songwriting. Week 3, we will go over content & theme development, and examples of storytelling in song lyrics. Week 4, we will learn tricks for editing, and use student's original lyrics to engage in feedback, encouragement, and discussion. Week 5 is an open share, Q & A, and finishing up last edits. I am available for questions and interaction through the duration of the course, and students are able to interact with each other, providing feedback and encouragement. I welcome writers of all styles, and encourage students to deepen their writing voice. I believe each learner has a unique story to share and lyrics are a powerful tool for expression! No music knowledge is required, however students should have basic knowledge of poetry/creative writing to build upon. Let me know if you or your learner have any questions!
Learning Goals
- basics of rhyme scheme in lyrics
- common song forms
- developing a theme
- editing song lyrics
- storytelling elements in lyrics
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Students will be interacting with each others lyrics which may include themes such as love, heartbreak, sadness, etc. No hate speech, slurs, or overly explicit language will be tolerated.
Supply List
something to write on/with!
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
Bachelor's Degree in Music or Theatre or Arts from Berklee College of Music
Berklee College of Music (BFA) Graduate
Published Professional Songwriter (Stephanie James, The Sunset Kings, Sangeeta Bachtarrya)
Songwriting with Paula Cole
Jingle Writing class
Self Accompanying Singer- Janie Barnett
Reviews
Live Group Class
$18
weekly or $90 for 5 classes1x per week, 5 weeks
50 min
Completed by 12 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 12-17
1-8 learners per class