11 Transformative Songwriting Courses
As a conductor, I’ve spent years immersed in the world of music, interpreting and bringing to life the compositions of others. But lately, I’ve felt a growing urge to create my own musical stories. The idea of writing songs has been tugging at my heart, whispering promises of new creative horizons. However, transitioning from conducting to songwriting isn’t as straightforward as waving a baton. That’s why I’ve embarked on a journey to discover the best songwriting courses available.
In my search, I’ve uncovered a treasure trove of options, each offering unique insights into the craft of songwriting. From lyric writing to melody composition, from industry techniques to personal expression, these courses cover a wide range of skills essential for aspiring songwriters. Whether you’re a fellow conductor looking to expand your musical repertoire, or a complete novice dreaming of penning your first hit, this list of the 11 best songwriting courses has something for everyone.
Join me as we explore these courses, each promising to unlock the secrets of songwriting and help us transform our musical ideas into fully-fledged compositions.
1. The Lyric Writer’s Workroom – Songcraft
The Lyric Writer’s Workroom by Songcraft offers a unique approach to songwriting by focusing specifically on the craft of lyric writing. This course emphasizes the importance of learning, practicing, and continuously improving songwriting skills over time. It provides a wealth of articles and resources that delve into various aspects of lyric writing, from mastering different rhyme schemes to finding fresh song ideas. The course encourages songwriters to capture inspiration from their surroundings and transform those ideas into compelling lyrics. It also offers practical tips on writing memorable choruses and melodies, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of lyric writing and improve their overall songwriting craft.
2. Lyrics Writing Course by Jacob Carter
Jacob Carter’s Lyrics Writing Course offers a comprehensive and engaging approach to mastering the art of lyric writing. This online program is designed to cater to both beginners and experienced songwriters looking to enhance their skills and unleash their creativity. Led by Jacob Carter, a seasoned lyricist with over 10 years of experience in the music industry, the course provides valuable insights and practical techniques to help students craft compelling lyrics across various genres.
The course is structured into six modules, covering essential aspects of lyric writing. These include finding inspiration, understanding lyrical structure and style, developing effective writing techniques, mastering literary tools for depth, exploring genre-specific knowledge, and learning the art of collaboration. Each module is packed with HD video lessons, suggested tasks, and industry insider hints, allowing students to learn at their own pace and apply their newfound knowledge in real-world scenarios.
One of the course’s strengths lies in its holistic approach to lyric writing. Students not only learn the technical aspects of crafting lyrics but also gain insights into the creative process and industry practices. The course emphasizes the importance of developing a unique writing style and provides tools for students to express themselves confidently through their songs.
Additionally, Jacob Carter’s background in English Literature from the University of Oxford and his experience as a musician in an indie band lend credibility and depth to the course content.
The Lyrics Writing Course aims to make lyric writing accessible to everyone, not just professional lyricists. With a mission to popularize lyric writing education, the course seeks to empower individuals to express their feelings and experiences through song. Students who complete the course receive a certificate and gain lifetime access to the course materials, allowing them to revisit and refine their skills over time.
3. MasterClass: Songwriting with Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys’ MasterClass on songwriting and producing offers a unique opportunity to learn from one of the best-selling and most acclaimed artists of her generation. This course provides insight into the world of a pop star through Alicia’s personal anecdotes and experiences. Students will learn about Keys’ musical foundations and influences, her approach to putting a song together, and how she uses vocal arrangements to enhance her songs. The course also covers Keys’ retro-futurist sound and her techniques in the control room and recording booth. While it may not provide the direct, step-by-step teaching some might expect, it offers valuable glimpses into how some of Keys’ greatest hits were created. The high-quality production and vast range of topics covered make this course a compelling option for aspiring songwriters and producers.
4. How to Write Your First Song (The University of Sheffield)
The University of Sheffield’s “How to Write Your First Song” is a free online course that provides a practical introduction to the mechanics of songwriting. This beginner-friendly course guides students through the fundamental aspects of songwriting, including setting words to music, creating melodies, and understanding song structure. Over six weeks, participants learn about the five musical elements, explore chord types and progressions, and discover different song forms such as verse, chorus, and refrain. The course also features insights from established songwriters and experts in music and psychology, offering a well-rounded perspective on what makes a song successful. By the end of the course, students will have gone through the process of writing their own song, working with pitch, melody, chord progressions, and more. This course is an excellent starting point for anyone looking to dip their toes into the world of songwriting.
5. Lyric Writing: Tools and Strategies – Berklee Online
Berklee Online’s “Lyric Writing: Tools and Strategies” is a 12-week course designed to enhance lyric writing skills for both beginners and experienced songwriters. Authored by renowned lyricist Pat Pattison, this course focuses on generating better ideas, finding the right words, and organizing rhythms and rhymes into compelling verses, choruses, and bridges. Students learn essential techniques such as rhyme structure, notating rhyme schemes, and creating forward motion with rhyme. The curriculum includes daily object writing activities to stimulate creativity and teaches how to create effective contrasts between song sections for maximum emotional impact. By the end of the course, participants will have developed a robust set of skills to craft vivid and emotionally resonant lyrics, making it an excellent choice for those looking to elevate their songwriting craft.
6. The Art of Songwriting (Belmont University)
Belmont University’s “The Art of Songwriting” course offers a unique opportunity to learn from accomplished songwriters and industry professionals. This program is designed to help songwriters at various levels develop their skills and build a sustainable career in the music industry. The course covers essential aspects of songwriting, including finding inspiration, overcoming writer’s block, and applying technical elements such as rhyme and song structure. Students also learn how to tell effective stories through song, collaborate in co-writing scenarios, and maintain integrity in a secular industry. The program features insights from esteemed guests, including Hall of Fame songwriters and Grammy-winning artists, providing a well-rounded perspective on the craft and business of songwriting. With its focus on both creative and career aspects, this course is ideal for those looking to turn their passion for songwriting into a professional pursuit.
7. How to Write Lyrics – The Song Foundry
The Song Foundry’s “How to Write Lyrics” course is a comprehensive program designed to help songwriters craft impactful and memorable lyrics. Created by Ed Bell, this course offers over five hours of HD video lessons and a 32-page course booklet, covering essential topics such as using rhyme, structuring lyrics, writing singable lyrics, and understanding prosody. The curriculum is divided into seven modules, each packed with invaluable ideas, techniques, and real-life applications. Students learn how to develop and refine lyric ideas, create catchy and well-structured lyrics, and express themselves confidently in their songwriting. The course is suitable for beginner to intermediate songwriters and provides lifetime access to all materials, making it a valuable resource for continuous learning and improvement. With its practical approach and focus on craft, this course is an excellent choice for those looking to deepen their understanding of lyric writing and enhance their overall songwriting skills.
8. Commercial Songwriting Techniques – Berklee Online
Berklee Online’s “Commercial Songwriting Techniques” course, authored by Andrea Stolpe, is a 12-week program that focuses on writing songs for commercial success. This course combines theory with practical skill-building, teaching students how to create memorable melodies and lyrics that forge an emotional connection with listeners. The curriculum includes a ten-step process for reproducing the traits of successful songs while maintaining a unique voice. Students will learn techniques such as destination writing, which uses all senses as springboards for creativity, and toggling, which involves moving between detail and broader perspectives. By the end of the course, participants will have written three complete songs and developed firm ideas for future projects, making it an excellent choice for those aiming to succeed in the commercial music industry.
9. Songwriting: Create Lyric Writing Approaches (Academy of Music and Sound Online)
The Academy of Music and Sound Online offers a free course titled “Songwriting: Creative Lyric Writing Approaches” that is suitable for beginners through to experienced songwriters. This course aims to equip participants with various writing techniques and creative tools to inspire and invigorate their lyrical output. The syllabus is structured over four weeks, covering topics such as journaling and sensory writing, collecting inspiration, storytelling through narrative and metaphor creation, and maintaining authenticity in songwriting. Each week provides practical, creative conversations and activities designed to help songwriters grow as communicators and overcome writer’s block. This course is particularly valuable for those looking to explore new approaches to lyric writing without committing to a full-time program.
10. Toplining 101: Melody & Lyrics in Songwriting (Skillshare)
Skillshare’s “Toplining 101: Melody & Lyrics in Songwriting” course offers a comprehensive exploration of melody and lyric creation in songwriting. The course introduces the concept of ‘toplining’ and provides practical, usable steps for creating memorable and meaningful lyrics and melodies. It caters to a wide range of participants, from producers and artists to complete beginners in music-making. The curriculum covers various aspects of songwriting, including how to approach songs consistently, find inspiration, and develop a unique writing style. Students are encouraged to use simple tools like a notebook and a recording device to capture their ideas. This course is ideal for those looking to develop their skills in crafting melodies and lyrics that connect with listeners.
11. Songwriting: Writing, Arranging, and Producing Music (Berklee College of Music)
Berklee College of Music’s “Songwriting: Writing, Arranging, and Producing Music” is part of a broader Songwriting Specialization offered through Coursera. This course provides a holistic approach to songwriting, covering not just the writing process but also arranging and production aspects. Students learn how to develop song ideas, craft compelling verses and choruses, and create stable and unstable sections in their songs. The curriculum includes techniques for using rhyme schemes effectively and incorporating rhythm into lyrics to complement musical rhythms. Taught by experienced instructors from Berklee, this course is particularly beneficial for those looking to gain a well-rounded understanding of the songwriting process, from initial concept to final production.