Add to Wish List
Add to Wish List
Trusted teacher
from47.66GBP/ h
The Secret of Writing Great Songs - Lyrics & Music
This is a hands-on surgical exploration into what great songs are and how to create them - from lyrics to music. Great songs are not merely popular songs, or catchy songs, or best-selling songs - great songs are enduring creations that stand the test of time, and which cross all boundaries of genre and style.
In order to create them, we need a unique combination of skills and sensitivities - the ability to execute our ideas effectively on an accompaniment instrument of our choice, whether piano, guitar, organ, harp or other almost always polyphonic (multiple sounding) instruments - but equally the ability to craft poetic and compelling lyrics that are neither cliche nor predictable, and not least, the ability to create effective rhyme patterns without compromising either the original intent or flow of the song.
In truth, creating a great song is as or more difficult than creating a great story, because it requires the meeting and melding of word and music in a mutually resonant way.
In this quest, the class will enlighten beginning as well as seasoned songwriters on harmonic vocabularies available to them, basic musical resources such as rhythmic figures and variation techniques, basic and advanced song structures, from Bach to the Beatles to Bernstein, and perfecting the art of lyric-writing.
Students will learn both fundamental notations so they may present their songs in a true musical format, as well as short cuts enabling them to sketch ideas in a simple form when in the heat of creation. Vocal ranges, transposing, vocal and instrumental ranges will be addressed so that students create songs capable of being sung by either professionals or amateurs.
In order to create them, we need a unique combination of skills and sensitivities - the ability to execute our ideas effectively on an accompaniment instrument of our choice, whether piano, guitar, organ, harp or other almost always polyphonic (multiple sounding) instruments - but equally the ability to craft poetic and compelling lyrics that are neither cliche nor predictable, and not least, the ability to create effective rhyme patterns without compromising either the original intent or flow of the song.
In truth, creating a great song is as or more difficult than creating a great story, because it requires the meeting and melding of word and music in a mutually resonant way.
In this quest, the class will enlighten beginning as well as seasoned songwriters on harmonic vocabularies available to them, basic musical resources such as rhythmic figures and variation techniques, basic and advanced song structures, from Bach to the Beatles to Bernstein, and perfecting the art of lyric-writing.
Students will learn both fundamental notations so they may present their songs in a true musical format, as well as short cuts enabling them to sketch ideas in a simple form when in the heat of creation. Vocal ranges, transposing, vocal and instrumental ranges will be addressed so that students create songs capable of being sung by either professionals or amateurs.
Extra information
Students should have at least a basic working knowledge of an accompaniment instrument - keyboard, guitar, harp, organ, etc., or else, if interested in creating unaccompanied songs, and ability to sing accurately and clearly.Location
Online via webcam
At teacher's location: Winchester Road, Northfield, MA, USA
|
Use ⊞+wheel to zoom!
General info
Skills:
Age: | Teenagers (13-17 years old) Adults (18-64 years old) Seniors (65+ years old) |
---|---|
Student level: | Beginner Intermediate Advanced |
Duration: | 60 minutes 90 minutes |
The class is taught in: | English |
About Me
A lifelong composer of concert & stage music, hundreds of songs, concertos, and a healer & author of 22 books on well-being & spirituality.A fantastic mentor and teacher who knows how to get inside the mindset of various students in a way which enables them to make quantum progress in a relatively brief time period - whether it be instrumental or orchestral technique, theory, composition or songwriting.
And, amazingly, a nice guy and patient teacheras well.
Education
B.M. Aaron Copland School of Music/Queens College NYMaster's Degree, Composition, University of Massachusetts
Private Study, Classical Guitar, Conservatory of Bologna Italy
Experience / Qualifications
A highly effective professional, teaching over 50 years, Bachelor's & Master's Degrees & awards in composition, teacher of many other professional performers & composers; composer of documentary film scores, a dozen stage musicals, operas, a recently commissioned Violin Concerto by the Vermont Philharmonic, a skilled classical guitarist with 'Big Ears' that can transcribe virtually any music, classical or popular, direct from recording. . .AndAsk a question
Send a message explaining your needs and Joseph will reply soon:
The more detail, the better.
Ex. "Hi, when are you available to meet for a lesson?"
Ex. "Hi, when are you available to meet for a lesson?"
Availability of a typical week
(GMT -05:00) New York
Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
0 | |||||||
1 | |||||||
2 | |||||||
3 | |||||||
4 | |||||||
5 | |||||||
6 | |||||||
7 | |||||||
8 | |||||||
9 | |||||||
10 | |||||||
11 | |||||||
12 | |||||||
13 | |||||||
14 | |||||||
15 | |||||||
16 | |||||||
17 | |||||||
18 | |||||||
19 | |||||||
20 | |||||||
21 | |||||||
22 | |||||||
23 |
from £47.66At teacher's location
from £47.66Online via webcam
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Good-fit Instructor Guarantee
If you are not satisfied after your first lesson, Apprentus will find you another instructor or will refund your first lesson.
Online reputation
- Instructor since February 2020
- Facebook connected
Availability of a typical week
(GMT -05:00) New York
Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
0 | |||||||
1 | |||||||
2 | |||||||
3 | |||||||
4 | |||||||
5 | |||||||
6 | |||||||
7 | |||||||
8 | |||||||
9 | |||||||
10 | |||||||
11 | |||||||
12 | |||||||
13 | |||||||
14 | |||||||
15 | |||||||
16 | |||||||
17 | |||||||
18 | |||||||
19 | |||||||
20 | |||||||
21 | |||||||
22 | |||||||
23 |
from £47.66At teacher's location
from £47.66Online via webcam
Good-fit Instructor Guarantee
If you are not satisfied after your first lesson, Apprentus will find you another instructor or will refund your first lesson.
Share
You are here
Private lessons
in Northfield
Similar classes
Natalia
Composing/Song writer/Music writing/PerformingI am Natalia, a piano musician and music writer.
I compose my own music pieces on the piano, music tracks in different genres including, for example, film scores, pop songs and classical music.
I make and play music for anything that requires music. Movies, TV shows, plays, commercials, songs.
Here you will be informed about the offers for performances and composing and also about the piano lessons...
Stefano
Songwriting, Music Theory, Arrangement Lessons (Individual) - Pop, Jazz, Soul, ClassicalDiscover your inner musician and take your talent to the next level with my classes in songwriting, music theory, and arrangement! Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned musician, I'll provide you with the tools and guidance you need to unlock your full potential and unleash your creativity.
As a musician, singer, piano player, composer, and songwriter myself I am experienced in a variety of genres, including pop, jazz, soul, and classical music, so you can choose the style that speaks to you. With my personalized approach, I'll help you develop the skills and techniques you need to create your own unique sound.
In my songwriting classes, you'll learn how to craft compelling lyrics and melodies that truly resonate with your audience. In my music theory classes, you'll delve into the fundamentals of music and gain a deeper understanding of the building blocks of your favorite songs. And in my arrangement classes, you'll discover how to take your songs to the next level with intricate, thoughtful instrumentation.
Join me today and take the first step towards realizing your musical dreams! My classes are designed to be fun, engaging, and inspiring, so you'll never want to put down your instrument. Let's make some beautiful music together!
Josh
Music Production / Songwriting / Electronic Music Individual TutoringAlmost all music today is made using computers—whether it's composed, recorded, or edited with music software. It has never been easier to create music yourself, requiring very little equipment or prior experience.
I offer classes for all skill levels, from beginners who want to learn the basics and get to grips with music-making software, to experienced artists and producers looking to refine their skill set and make their music sound unique and professional.
I have worked with artists across a wide range of genres, backgrounds, and ages. Through this experience, I’ve found that the common goal and joy in music is honest self-expression, something I pride myself on encouraging and facilitating, no matter your level of experience or confidence.
The structure and timeline of the classes are flexible and can be tailored to your needs. For beginners, I typically recommend starting with an hour-long session once a week for ten weeks. The goal would be to finish at least two songs or pieces of music by the end of the course. Classes can be conducted in person or online.
I am a classically trained musician. I was a chorister at Cambridge's King's College Choir as a child and received a music scholarship to one of the UK’s top secondary schools, where I studied trumpet, piano, viola, singing, and composition. It was there that I discovered my passion for music production on computers. I also achieved top grades in Music Technology and offer tutoring for Music Technology exams at both GCSE and A-Level. I then went on to study at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, specializing in Electronic and Produced Music, where I graduated with a first-class degree. My studies included modules in popular music production, songwriting, film music composition, acousmatic music, and orchestration, among others.
Since then, I have been working with the charity Key Changes, where I visit psychiatric hospitals and forensic wards to collaborate with patients on music production and songwriting. A large part of this work involves creating instrumentals for rappers, which allowed me to learn how to produce drill and trap music. I’ve also run music production workshops for children aged 8-16 and provided individual tutoring to many young learners.
I have an enhanced DBS check and extensive experience working with children aged 4 and up, including students with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. I look forward to hearing from you!
Lucy
Music Lessons (Including: SINGING, PIANO, SONGWRITING, PRODUCTION AND THEORY CLASSES)Do you have a passion for music and dream of learning to sing, play the piano, write your own songs, or even discover the magic of music production in Logic Pro X? Search no further!
Together we can search for the perfect lesson content that is specifically tailored to you, so that I can always offer what you want. Multiple interests? – then we can even combine different disciplines for an even richer learning path. The lesson material is infused with my personal experiences as a professional musician in the pop industry, knowledge from previous classical piano and theory lessons, singing lessons and the insights I gained during my completed studies at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam (Pop).
Expect a professional approach during class, combined with a fun and unique teaching experience designed especially for you.
-
Are you passionate about music and do you dream of learning to sing, play the piano, write your own songs, or dive into the enchanting world of music production using Logic Pro X? Look no further!
Together, let's embark on a journey to tailor the perfect lesson content to your desires, ensuring that I can always provide exactly what you're looking for. Multiple interests? – then we can even combine various disciplines for a more enriching learning experience. The teaching material is infused with my personal experiences as a professional musician in the pop industry, insights from earlier classical piano and theory classes, singing lessons and the knowledge acquired from my studies at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam (Pop).
Expect a professional approach during the lesson, paired with a warm and distinctive learning experience crafted just for you.
Pedro
Guitar, music production and songwriter lessons for students of all levels in the Lake Zurich areaThe program will be tailored according to the student goals. (leisure, professional development) focusing on; basic knowledge of the guitar, basic chords and more advanced chords, scales and modes, theory and practice of improvisation, study of a repertoire, right hand technique (fingers or pick), music theory and rhythm, Logic Pro X, basic sound engineering and music production techniques and songwriting skills.
An understanding of what are the goals and interests of student, as well as their skills is the most effective way to pass on knowledge.
Vinnie
The Mindful Teaching Method - learn how to play guitar, Ukulele, write songs or produce music while calming your mindMy class is for anyone interested in music as a tool for life. The focus is to learn how to play an instrument and also cultivate mindfulness habits. I have taught with my own method for 20 years to hundreds of students from all walks of life.
We start our session with a short mindfulness exercise and then you'll learn how to play your chosen instrument through your favourite songs. If you're interested we can also then start to learn how to write songs and even record them!
Eyal
Piano, Music Production, Song Writing, and Music TheoryEyal has taught hundreds of students over the past 15 years, both guitar and piano next to music theory and composition. Besides his formal music education (a bachelor's in composition, a teaching degree from the music academy in Jerusalem, and a master's in composition from Codarts, Rotterdam), Eyal has acquired experience in a wide range of various musical styles, including Rock, Blues, Jazz, classical music, electronic music, and contemporary music, on which he bases his rich approach which can be adjusted to every student separately.
Solos, chords, improvisations, heavy distortion or acoustic guitar, playing at a party or jumping on stages, reading notes, or playing by ear. Maybe you know exactly what you want, and maybe you are not sure. In Eyal's view, the job of the teacher is to help you find that out, and guide you through your process.
Johann Sebastian Bach or John Lennon? Sergei Rachmaninoff or Freddie Mercury? Regina Spektor? Nina Simone? Maybe Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart? Complex harmonies or simple melodies? Classical pieces or modern tunes? The only right answer is what you find interesting.
Arianna
A classified vocal coach looking at helping you find your own unique voiceI'm looking for student's who not only want to learn a great technique for singing but whom also want to find and develop their own unique sound so they can express themselves through the art of song and tell a story.
I am a trained singer- songwriter & professional musician with a BA (hons) in Composition. Originally from london I moved to Brussels to do my masters degree. I am a trained singing with a level of grade 8, I have also spent the last 6 years touring as a front women and also a backing singing with various artists around europe, including 1 top 10 artist. I understand that although it's great to have a strong technique it's also about letting go and having confidence in your ability so you can relax in the moment.
I welcome students of all levels and all ages and teach a range of genres from Jazz to Rock. Alternatively I am happy to focus on technique if that is something you prefer to work on.
So, if you're a aspiring singer looking to find your own unique coach I am here to help!
Liam
Songwriting workshop, any level songwriter who would like to workshop/collaborate on their material or learn the art of songwritingHello, I’m Liam, and I’m excited to be your guide in this songwriting class! With over 10 years of experience as a songwriter, performer, and producer, I’ve had the privilege of writing in a wide variety of genres, pop, rock, folk. My songs have been featured on radio, and my approach to songwriting focuses on the intersection of creativity, emotion, and craft.
I love helping aspiring songwriters find their unique voice, overcome creative challenges, and develop their skills. Whether you're new to songwriting or looking to take your craft to the next level, I aim to provide a supportive and collaborative environment where you can grow and experiment with new ideas.
My teaching style emphasizes both the technical aspects of songwriting (like melody, structure, and lyrics) and the more intuitive, emotional side of creating music. I believe that every songwriter has something unique to say, and my goal is to help you express that voice in the most authentic way possible.
Outside of teaching, I continue to write, perform, and record music, and I’m passionate about staying engaged with the ever-evolving world of songwriting. I look forward to working with you, sharing tools and techniques, and creating a space for everyone to develop their craft.
Karlijn
Vocal coaching, tailor-made singing lessons so that you can express yourself with your personal instrumentAnyone can learn to sing, that's a fact.
Whatever stage you are at, I'll give you a handful of practical tips that we practice together to get a handle on what comes out of your instrument.
From breathing, over vocal technique to the interpretation of songs and creating your own melodies.
Domina
Songwriting (Commercial Songwriting, Songwriting for Film & TV, Songwriting : Harmony and Melody)We will explore the art of Songwriting, tailor-made to the student's needs and requirements. From commercial Songwriting to Songwriting for film and TV, we can develop the tools needed to create memorable melodies, harmonies and lyrics that stand the test of time. Based on my former Berklee College of Music training (alumni) and professional experience.
James
Song Writing Lessons by experienced songwriter and composerI am a 32-year old guitarist, songwriter and composer based in Den Haag, songwriting, composition, electric and acoustic guitar, in combination with music theory. I teach in English or in Greek. I am half Greek and half Scottish and I have been living in the Netherlands for the last 4 years.
I offer lessons in all styles, to all age groups, and for any experience level (ranging from students who have never written a song before, up to experienced songwriters who are looking for fresh ideas and improving their skills to really make their songs shine).
Face to face lessons are preferable, but I also teach online.
I am a patient and open minded teacher, and my desire is to help you learn what you want to learn, and make sure you enjoy and take pride in your songs, learn to express your musical ideas as best as possible and nurture your curiosity and excitement about the world of music creation !
My Credentials:
I hold a Bachelors of Music degree from Birmingham Conservatoire (UK), and a Masters of Music from The Hague Royal Conservatory. My experience as a songwriter and composer ranges from writing songs and singing in indie / off-beat rock bands, solo guitar and vocal performances, home-production of my own songs, creation of instrumental post-rock music, collaborative songwriting in bands, composition of works for classical players, creation of ambient, experimental and electronic music, creation of music for film, and I even some experience in beat-making.
I have written songs, I have written orchestra pieces, I have worked as a DIY home producer, I have released albums, and I've performed in concert halls, rock venues, squats and festivals. I
My music has been performed in and has taken me to several countries, including Portugal, The Czech Republic, The U.S.A., Canada, Korea, Greece, The U.K., The Netherlands.
My Teaching style:
My emphasis is to teach you based on your interests and your needs. The lessons are based around each individual student. You bring me the music you are creating and the skills you want to develop as a songwriter, and I build my lessons around that. My primary goal is help you develop your voice as a songwriter, so the starting point for our lessons will always be your music, and then I build our lessons around that.
My aim is always to help you find what the heart of the song is about, and help you to bring this out and really make it shine. To help illustrate ideas about topics we discuss I will bring examples that can help inform the music you are creating, we will explore ideas of arrangement, orchestration, band leading and / or production to help flesh out your songs, and we will explore music theory too when that is helpful for us and / or if that is interesting to you.
For more experienced songwriters we can explore how to write parts for other players, how to notate and orchestrate songs for acoustic instruments, how to record songs, or how to get the best playing out of your bandmates to help your song shine
Naomi
Kiswahili language, one of major languages in AfricaKiswahili is a major language used by most people especially in East Africa. Having knowledge in this language help you in interacting and communicating to people in this region and others distributed across the world. Join me in beginning or perfecting in this language
Ivan
Songwriting, Music Theory, Composition, Guitar, PianoThe class is for:
- beginners who want to start their journey in music
- intermediary musicians who wish to improve their skills
- for highly educated musicians who want to perfect their knowledge.
The class includes songwriting skills in POP, ROCK, JAZZ and many other styles of popular music as well as compositional skills in writing CLASSICAL, FILM, THEATER music.
I specialize in both popular music and classical music. The class includes both theoretic knowledge and its practical application with students instrument of choice. The class also includes skills in guitar, piano and percussion playing.
Erik
Teaching in songwriting, storytelling, singing, drums and guitar.With over 15 years of experience in music, I offer personalized lessons in singing, acoustic and electric guitar, and drums as well as songwriting and storytelling. Whether you’re a beginner looking to start your musical journey or an advanced musician seeking to refine your skills, my teaching approach is tailored to fit your individual goals and style. As a professional singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, I focus not only on technique but also on creativity and self-expression, helping you build confidence as a performer.
My lessons are available both online and in-person, offering flexibility to suit your schedule. Let’s unlock your musical potential together!