Songwriting Course

Learn the secrets behind successful songs and songwriters.		Learn to record professional vocals with the latest software.

Summary

Songwriting teaches students how contemporary songs are put together and what makes them successful. If you want to sell your songs and make a living from your music, then it's essential that you have an understanding of music theory, composition and arrangement techniques. We also look at the music industry in the 21^st Century and explore copyright, publishing and promotion. Practical exercises form an integral part of this course and so students are expected to be able to play an instrument or experienced in music production software such as Logic.

Content

Introduction

How does the music industry define a song?

Copyright - who owns what?

Royalties - who earns what?

Analysis of contemporary song styles

Structure & Rhythm

Song structure: verse, chorus, bridge (pre-chorus), middle 8

Writing a hook: musical, vocal and lyrical hooks

Groove & rhythm in modern music from R&B to drum n bass

Music composition - definitions and terminology explained

Chord Sequences

Scales, chords, keys and harmony

Chords: major and minor. Key notation

Chord sequences and key changes

Chord sequences used in modern music styles

The Role of the Bassline

Using the bassline to reinforce rhythm and harmony

Bass riffs - using the bassline as a hook

Choosing the right sound - classic bass sounds and synths

How and when to use sub bass

Rhythmic Parts

Creative use of percussion to add "groove"

How to add rhythmic interest to your track

Percussion software tools: BFD, Stylus, Battery

Other software instruments: Virtual Guitarist, B4

Pads & Strings

What are pads and when do you use them?

Classic pad sounds: hardware and software

Using inverted and extended chords

Minor chords, augmented chords, diminished chords, suspended chords

Melody and Vocals

How to write a melody

Composing motifs and phrases

Using passing notes

Melodic tension and release

Lyric Writing

Song concepts: types of lyrical theme

Lyrical approaches from Elvis to Eminem

Rhyming structure

Do's and don'ts of successful lyric writing

Vocal Production

Preparing to record your track in the studio

Recording vocals in the studio: guidance and preparation

Comping and double tracking vocal takes

Effects and processing. Correcting tuning

Songwriters' Secrets & Career Advice

Tips and tricks from pro songwriters

Tips on networking and promoting your work

Management and legal advice

Publishing deals and how they work