Songwriting Lessons in Cedarpines Park. Amazing Teachers.

I have been teaching songwriting for over four years. These lessons are wholly rewarding as I love to conduct it as a "jam session" of sorts, helping my students frame their ideas into versus-chorus form, as well as helping them with basic music theory and sheet music transferring digitally with Sibelius 7 or in paper form.

Learn how your favorite songs work, what patterns are being used and what the song is really doing. Learn to write your own!! What chords work together and why! What parts go where and why! The harmonies to the music, why they work and what they are really implying! Writing multiple parts to a song (Rhythms, leads, melodies and solos). We can even record and work on your own songs at my studio!

I consider 'song writing' one chapter in the larger context of composition. Composition involves utilizing the various musical elements (rhythm, melody, harmony, timbre, form) to create a musical work. Great composers are very accomplished musicians, as are great improvisors. The art of improvisation is the art of spontaneous composition.

All my advanced students study composition in some form, as part of learning their instrument. My 'composition' students usually learn chord function theory (12 assignment course) and are generally proficient enough on a chordal instrument (piano or guitar) to at least play simple chord progressions.

One aspect of composition studies involves analyzing a variety of songs to see what makes them work. We also approach writing from a variety of points of view. As with learning a musical instrument, the art of song writing and composition can result in a lifetime of exciting musical exploration.

I bring to lessons an expansive education in music performance, theory, and composition in different styles, as well as the ability to explain and display the necessary skills in a variety of ways for a diversity of learning styles.

I teach an aggressive curriculum, but one that is tailored to each student's individual strengths and weaknesses, and I always remain gentle and patient while guiding my students through the rewarding process of learning to create music.

I enjoy so much about my work, and here are just a few elements:

-Sharing my love for music with those eager to learn the art for themselves.

-The moments when the student finds expression the music, transcending the notes as they're written on the page.

-Seeing my students perform at their recitals, where they share everything they have learned.

-Meeting so many incredible people who are all connected by a love for music!

For those interested in writing their own songs, it is important to have a good grasp on the basics. Song forms, chord progressions,the diatonic keys and scales. We will look at simple song forms as well as those in pop and rock music.

Learn basic chord progressions that you can write over 100 songs with!