Pop Songwriting Mastery: Write Like Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo & the Weeknd!
In this 6-week course, students will learn to write pop songs using techniques from today’s top artists. They’ll create memorable melodies, impactful lyrics, and master song structure, leaving with a finished song and new found confidence!
What's included
6 live meetings
3 in-class hoursHomework
1-2 hours per week. Homework will vary depending on student goals. Composition students could be given composition exercises to work on to learn a concept, or they may be given specific areas to work on in their projects. Music theory students may be given practice work for new skills. The amount of work assigned will be determined by specific goals. If the student has a specific project with a deadline, the work load may be more intense than a beginning student who is learning the basics.Assessment
includedClass Experience
US Grade 7 - 10
Beginner - Intermediate Level
Discover the art of modern pop songwriting in this immersive 6-week course designed to unlock your creativity and take your music to the next level! Whether you’re captivated by Taylor Swift’s vivid storytelling, Olivia Rodrigo’s emotional vulnerability, or The Weeknd’s cutting-edge melodies, this class will teach you the skills and techniques behind today’s chart-topping hits. Through step-by-step guidance, you’ll learn how to create unforgettable hooks, craft lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners, and structure your songs for maximum impact. Each week, we’ll build on your knowledge and creativity, covering everything from melody development and emotional lyric writing to song dynamics and finishing techniques. By the end of the course, you’ll walk away with: • Your own professionally crafted original pop song—fully written, structured, and polished. • Proven songwriting strategies used by some of the biggest names in music today. • A deeper understanding of modern pop music’s formulas and techniques. • Confidence in your ability to write and share your music, with skills you can apply to future songwriting projects. Perfect for aspiring songwriters and pop music fans alike, this course will help you turn your ideas into songs that leave an impact. Whether you’re a beginner or already dabbling in songwriting, this class will inspire and equip you to bring your musical vision to life. Perfect for: • Music-loving teens (11-16) • Aspiring songwriters and producers • Fans of current pop, indie, and hip-hop • Both beginners and intermediate musicians • Students interested in creative self-expression
Learning Goals
Songwriting Foundations
• Understand the key elements that make pop songs successful.
• Develop skills to write memorable hooks, melodies, and lyrics.
• Gain confidence in your ability to create original pop songs.
Song Structure and Development
• Master modern pop song structures to create cohesive compositions.
• Refine your lyrical and melodic ideas into a polished final product.
• Experiment with dynamics and arrangement to enhance listener engagement.
Syllabus
6 Lessons
over 6 WeeksLesson 1:
Songwriting Basics
• Learn what makes a great pop song and analyze current hits.
• Explore how to create strong hooks and memorable melodies.
• Brainstorm and develop the foundation of your first song.
30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Crafting Emotionally Impactful Lyrics
• Write lyrics that tell your story and evoke emotion in listeners.
• Experiment with rhyme schemes, metaphors, and vivid imagery.
• Create the lyrical framework for your song.
30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Building Modern Song Structures
• Study popular song structures and their impact on listener engagement.
• Understand the roles of verses, choruses, pre-choruses, and bridges.
• Finalize the structure of your song.
30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Refining Melodies and Harmonies
• Enhance your song with compelling melodies and vocal arrangements.
• Explore basic harmony and how it adds depth to your music.
• Finalize your song’s melodic and harmonic elements.
30 mins online live lesson
Other Details
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
1 teacher has a Graduate degree
Master's Degree in Biology/Biological Sciences from University of Calgary
6 teachers have a Bachelor's degree
Bachelor's Degree in Music from Wilfrid Laurier University
Bachelor's Degree from University of Ottawa
Bachelor's Degree in Computer Engineering from University of Montreal
Bachelor's Degree in Music from University of Western Ontario
Bachelor's Degree in Music from Berklee College of Music
Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering from University of New Brunswick
2 teachers have an Associate's degree
Associate's Degree in Computer Engineering from Polytechnique de Montreal
Associate's Degree in Music from The Royal Conservatory of Music Canada
Hello everyone! I'm Emily, a professional singer-songwriter and music educator with a passion for helping kids and teens discover their unique voice and love for music. With over 10 years of experience as a performer, recording artist, and music theater professional, I bring a dynamic and engaging approach to music education.
My Approach:
• Fun and Engaging Lessons: I create exciting, interactive lessons that inspire young learners to explore their creativity through music they love.
• Personalized Learning: Every student is unique, and I tailor each lesson to their interests and goals, whether it’s mastering a favorite song, building confidence, or developing foundational skills.
• Confidence-Building Focus: My lessons emphasize self-expression and stage presence, helping students gain confidence in their abilities both on and off the stage.
What Sets Me Apart:
• Professional Expertise: As a professional singer-songwriter with recorded albums, I bring real-world music industry experience to every lesson.
• Music Theater Background: With years of performing in musical theater, I specialize in teaching vocal techniques, stage presence, and storytelling through song.
• Results-Oriented Teaching: My students don’t just learn to sing—they build confidence, develop strong vocal techniques, and gain a deeper appreciation for music.
• Encouraging Environment: I create a safe, supportive space where kids and teens feel comfortable exploring their creativity and expressing themselves.
Qualifications & Experience:
• Professional singer-songwriter with a recorded album available on major platforms like Spotify and Apple Music
• Experienced performer with a background in musical theater.
• Over 10 years of experience teaching vocals, songwriting, and music performance to kids and teens
• Expertise in vocal technique, music theory, and songwriting, tailored specifically for young learners
Whether your child is a beginner just discovering their voice or a budding performer ready to refine their skills, I’m here to guide them on a fun and inspiring musical journey. My lessons are designed to help students build confidence, improve technique, and discover the joy of creating and performing music.
Are you ready to help your child unlock their musical potential? Let’s get started today!
Reviews
Live Group Course
$30
weekly1x per week, 6 weeks
30 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 11-16
1-3 learners per class