Songwriting for Beginners (Focused on Music Theory and Chords)
In this one-time class, students will learn music theory for songwriting. With help from a professional musician, students will be introduced to how to write a song using basic chords and basic song structure (verse, chorus, bridge).
Michelle Ptacek, M.A. (Reading/Creativity)
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(165)
What's included
1 live meeting
30 mins in-class hoursHomework
Homework in this class will be optional. For example, students will be encouraged to make a list of songs/melodies they would like to investigate for patterns to match our checklist and chord sequences. Students will also be encouraged to pursue further sources for music theory awareness.Assessment
Informal assessment will be used throughout the songwriting instruction, brief writing/editing session, 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.Class Experience
In this class, students will learn how to come up with their own chord progressions. They will learn basic song structure (verse, pre-chorus, chorus, verse, pre-chorus, chorus, bridge, chorus) and the role of music theory in supporting this structure. In essence, they will learn the basics about how to write songs with chords and melodies in mind. We will: -Analyze song structure and chord patterns in popular songs (pattern identifying activities are crucial for understanding songwriting) -Learn how to use a chord chart to put together chord sequences -Learn how to use a songwriting checklist - For a closing activity, we will write a song together quickly about a silly topic While no prior experience is needed to take this class, it is beneficial to have played some kind of instrument. It's also beneficial to know what a pattern is, what a chord is, and how to work collaboratively with others. In addition, it's great to come with a variety of favorite songs and artists in mind for discussion. I teach using a combination of direct instruction and slide shows while leaving plenty of time for positive interaction and questions. Since songwriting is one of my favorite things to do (I've written over 100 songs and recorded 60!), I have a lot to share on this topic. It's going to be fun. ARE YOU CURIOUS ABOUT MUSIC LYRICS AND SONGWRITING? Consider taking the complementary class titled Songwriting for Beginners (Focused on Lyrics): https://outschool.com/classes/songwriting-for-beginners-CYiPgR9F#usm3isaHNf
Learning Goals
- 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
Other Details
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined March, 2021
4.9
165reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Iowa Teaching Certificate in Special Education
Master's Degree in Education from Morningside University
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.
RELEVANT CERTIFICATIONS
Department of Education, PK-12 Talented and Gifted
RELEVANT EDUCATION
Masters of Arts in Teaching
Morningside College, Sioux City, IA
Doctoral Student
Bridges Graduate School of Cognitive Diversity, Studio City, CA Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$10
per classMeets once
30 min
Completed by 8 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-15
3-9 learners per class
Financial Assistance
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