Songwriting for Kids (Flex)

Students will learn the basics of songwriting, and composing a unique song in an encouraging environment! We'll explore methods in lyric writing and rhyming, how to write down or record your own melody, and get your song ready for the big stage. Each week, we'll share our creative songs and collaborate together. Prior piano, singing, or music theory experience is recommended but not completely necessary. Whether you've taken this class before or brand new, all are welcome :-). The teacher will provide one on one feedback for students by video, or written evaluation. 

**By the end of the four weeks, students will present their original songs for the class by a video, recording, or presentation of sheet music**

Week 1: Intro to songwriting, How and Why do we write songs together? (The impact of music and working together)
 Song structure explained on how to compose a great song!

Classroom Discussion #1: What songs grab your attention, and why? What songwriters inspire you?
Collaboration exercise: Brainstorm exercise about song topics
HW #1: Using the Brainstorming technique provided, create a brainstorm list to generate ideas for your original song.

Week 2: Intro rhymes, song structure (verse, chorus, pre-chorus, bridge, and titles). 
Class Discussion #1: How did your songwriting/brainstorming go this week? What was easy, hard? Where do you feel most comfortable writing and when? 
Collaboration exercise: Students will identify together different types of songs and their structures to gain a clear understanding of song structure.
HW #2: Structure your song lyrics and melodies into the verse, pre-chorus, chorus, and bridge format.

Week 3:  Intro to careers, and pathways through music. How to make money with your music? What to do when your song is finished?
Collaboration exercises: Map/Dream plan will be created among the students to reach goals.
Classroom Discussion #3: What are your musical goals? What would you like to become better at in music? How do you want to present your music to the world?
HW #3: Work on finishing song compositions to present for next week!
Collaboration exercise: Practice/Dress rehearsal of songs, feedback from students to improve songs.

Week 4: Reflection and presentation of original songs! Intro to music technology, and how to record and notate your original songs at home.
Classroom Discussion: What did you learn about the songwriting process? Do you envision writing for yourself or for other artists? How will you incorporate music technology in your composing?
Collaboration exercise: Students will share feedback on what they admired from other students' songs, and provide comments.
HW #4: Write a one page paper about your songwriting process this semester, goals, and vision for your song in the world.