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Songwriting Basics 1
Learn to write songs by drawing on your musical influences through the lens of three aspects of songwriting: lyrics, melody, and chords. In this course, you will explore the different parts of a song—the chorus, verse, and bridge—and the role each plays in connecting with listeners.
You’ll learn how to organize and highlight your lyrical ideas based on how listeners process information, write melodies that use contrast effectively, and choose chord progressions that best match the color or mood of your songs.
The course is not only a fun journey into your musical tastes, but also a practical method for generating ideas and turning them into tangible creations that express who you are.
What you will learn:
✔ Organize your lyrical ideas in written form and place them in songs in a way that connects with listeners
✔ Create compelling melodies with an understanding of the roles that song sections like chorus, verse, and bridge play in expressing your ideas
✔ Experiment with chord progressions to fit the intent of your songs
✔ Draw on your own personal taste to create songs
Tuition
$299
Ages
Teens: Grades 6-12
Adult Learners: 18+
 | Receive expert guidance Learn from world-class faculty who provide personalized feedback |
 | Learn at your own pace Explore engaging video content and meaningful instruction |
 | Meet your instructor and classmates Join an optional weekly class to connect with other artists in real-time |
 | Practice and create Strengthen your craft over four weeks as you develop creative projects |
 | Find collaborators Collaborate on your projects—or just for fun—in direct messages and group chats |
- Computer or mobile device with Internet. Internet speed must be at least 1.5Mbps download and 800Kbps upload. For students using a mobile device, download the Canvas mobile app and select “Interlochen Online” as your school.
No, course sections are designed for their respective age groups, either for adults (students 18 and older) or young people (students under 18).
Yes, there are eight sessions of courses per year. View the academic calendar for more session dates.
This is one of three courses needed to complete the Songwriting and Production Fundamentals certificate program.
Our online arts certificate programs are perfect for...
✔ Adults looking to boost their creative résumé and LinkedIn profile
✔ Teens who want to earn high school credit for their passion
Upon completion of the program, you will receive a physical certificate and a shareable digital certificate. Certificates for students under 18 are accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS); high school-age students will also receive an official transcript to share with their current school for consideration for high school credit.
Interlochen Online's Learning Experience
World-class. Inspiring. Flexible.
Questions? Speak with an Advisor.
Email: online@interlochen.org
Phone: 231.276.5990
You can also schedule an appointment.
Access Free Resources from Interlochen Online
Experience Interlochen Online with free guides that teach you practical skills in the arts.
