Contemporary Writing Technique

The course covers a variety of skills related to the writing of music. Through the listening and analysis of existing works, various concepts related to composition, are taught. Students are required to analyze existing works as well as write their own, exercising the various skills learned.  Teaching approach utilizes a hands on environment including the studio recording of some of the written material.  The course requires basic musical skills in the areas of music reading, and instrumental control. Keyboard and/or guitar skills are helpful and recommended.

Song Writing

Various aspects of song writing approaches are discussed. Fundamental concepts related to song writing are discussed. Through the listening and analysis of existing works, various concepts related to song writing, are taught. Students are required to analyze existing songs as well as write their own, exercising the various skills learned. Teaching approach utilizes a hands on environment including the studio recording of some of the written material.  The course requires basic musical skills in the areas of music reading, and instrumental control.

Music Theory

Areas such as ear training and solfege, scales and modes, rhythm, harmony and counterpoint are taught based on student needs and interest.

Please Note:

For all composition courses, keyboard and/or guitar skills are helpful and recommended. Additionally, regular access to a computer, preferably a notebook which can be brought to class, as well as the relevant software used (or its equivalent.) is highly recommended.