Songwriting Lessons
Although the craft of songwriting is extremely unique to each individual, there are many ways to enhance creativity. The goal of songwriting lessons is to give each student the necessary skills and knowledge to feel motivated and capable of reaching their highest potential.
As with any creative pursuit, there are highs and lows, and many writers often struggle with writer's block. With a degree in songwriting from Belmont University, Trevor has been intensely passionate about honing his craft and overcoming challenges for over 15 years. Our other teachers also offer a wide array of experience with songwriting lessons and many currently perform regularly in Nashville writer’s rounds. The focus of lessons will be how to navigate potential difficulties of the writing process and how to frame music in a way that leads to endless inspiration.
Learn from the greats
Part of the Songwriting Curriculum is pretty straight forward; students will learn to play and sing songs by their favorite artists as well as other influential artists in that genre. This is based on the fact that in order to become great at anything, one must continually learn what they can from those who came before. With a mindset like this, writers avoid stagnation. Unfortunately, in the world of creatives, we often like to ignore this bit of advice thinking that our writing wouldn't be "original" if we learned skills from others. The truth of the matter is that learning from others equips you with a sharper set of tools thus enabling you to develop your own unique voice with greater and greater clarity.
theory that matters
Chord progressions and melodies — outside of lyrical content, these are the cornerstones of songwriting. There is little need for understanding the complexities of jazz or classical theory to write a great song. However, there is a certain level of music theory that every songwriter should be comfortable with. It can help move writers through creative blocks, smooth out communication when working with other musicians, and open up countless possibilities within the structure and mood of every new song. Considering songwriters are in the "business of emotions," it is only wise to have the breadth of knowledge necessary for creating the sounds you need for any source of inspiration.
feedback and motivation
Last and definitely not least, students following the Songwriting Curriculum will be pushed to write new and original songs on a regular basis. Sometimes the writing will be open ended and other times there will be certain parameters given in order to challenge a weakness and/or develop a strength. Students will receive positive reinforcement and constructive criticism for their efforts based on their current level of experience with songwriting. The more advanced a student becomes, the more they will be challenged to break through to the next level of their craft. All aspects of lyrical content, chord progressions, song structure, melody, and stylistic direction will be broken down and discussed in ways to keep students motivated and inspired to continue writing.