Songwriting with Justina S.

I have been writing songs on napkins and gum wrappers since I was 8 years old. It is my belief that a songwriter has a responsibility to say something worth saying, even if you want to shake your booty to the groove. Crafting the perfect musical message is my deepest passion. I have been on tour with my trio, performed my original songs at Lincoln Center and Rockwood Music Hall in New York (with members of Sara Bareilles’ band), at the Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, TN, and at various comedy clubs in Los Angeles. Last year, I taught songwriting and formed a rock band with capital offenders at Dade Correctional Institution, which solidified my love of teaching and belief that there is hope and good in every person. I am currently teaching songwriting as an adjunct professor at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music, where I obtained my Master’s Degree in Media Writing and Production. I am also teaching songwriting at various schools in Boulder, Colorado, intending to enact social change through the power of music. As my songwriting student, you can be sure that there will be moments of growth, which cannot occur without some discomfort. However, the reward is knowing you have said exactly what you want to say with words and music. You will be able to express yourself and connect with others for miles and miles.