Let’s Make a Song! - Private Songwriting Session
What's included
Meets on Demand
schedule meetings as needed30 mins
per sessionTeacher support
Class Experience
Hello! Do you like singing? Have you ever wanted to help write a song? Come write a special song that is uniquely yours! In this private class session, students will be encouraged to explore their creativity and explore the different elements that go into writing a song. We will vote on a theme for our song at the beginning of class, and students will alternate writing the words for each line. Students will be able to share their input for tempo, chords, and song structure (verse, chorus, bridge, etc). I will then help them put their lyrics to a melody. We will then practice singing our song for the second half of class. For shyer students, littler ones, or those without songwriting experience, I often start class with themes and prompts. I've found that these guided options or choices helps them get motivated if they are at a loss for where to begin with making a song. For students with As a longtime musician and songwriter myself, I believe that there is an even balance between spontaneity and intentional planning that goes into writing a song. The inspiration might come first, and improvisation is encouraged. Based on these initial ideas, we can look back and play around with shifting words or structure to see what feels best. Working on a song together helps learners to build confidence, expand their ideas, and have the bravery to express their own ideas. Of course, we know that young children benefit from developing these skills, so why not do it with music? I hope to see you there! **Note: I also welcome students who have a song they're already written, but would like specific feedback or new ideas. Perhaps your child has some words they've come up with that they would like to put down to music. If this is the case, please send me any materials (lyrics, voice recordings, theme ideas...) so that we can be prepared to make the most of our time together. After class, I will upload an mp3 of me singing the song, as well as so that they can have a recording of it to sing along with and practice at home. Class reminders: - All students must turn on their video at minimum once at the beginning of class so that I can verify their identity. - I follow Outschool’s attendance / refund policy for all classes. - Parents will want to be sure their children know how to mute and unmute themselves on Zoom, and manage the different view options. Some young students need supervision with this.
Learning Goals
Students will contribute to writing their own song, and most importantly gain confidence in their own creativity. By the end of the class, they will have finished a first draft of their song. (This may be a verse and a chorus, or a more complete song structure, but either way they should be on their way to a full song!)
Other Details
Supply List
After class, an mp3 file will be uploaded to the classroom as well as a sheet with our lyrics and the chords, so that students (and their grown-ups!) can sing along or practice on their own.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
New York Teaching Certificate in English to Speakers of Other Languages
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Music or Theatre or Arts from École Supérieure de Design de Troyes
Bachelor's Degree in Foreign Language from Kenyon College
I have been writing my own songs on the guitar for over fifteen years, and currently record music as a singer-songwriter under the alias Folklaur. I have gained a lot myself from songwriting workshops with some of my favorite musicians, and do my best to keep up to date on ideas for creative exercises. Most importantly, I have a love for children and teaching. I have experience working at a bilingual preschool in France, as well as multiple summers as a summer camp program director where I led daily singalongs on the guitar for young children.
Reviews
Live 1-on-1 Lessons
$45
per sessionMeets on demand
30 min
Completed by 58 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 4-17