MUSC 1060 - Songwriting

Credits: 3
Hours/Week: Lecture 3Lab None
Course Description: This course is an introduction to the theory, craft, and practice of songwriting. Topics include: song structure, style and type, musical elements (rhythm, melody, harmony and instrumentation), lyric writing and collaboration, the basics of arranging, producing, and marketing songs, and performance elements. Songs from various traditions, past and present, will be studied as examples. Activities include song analysis, writing exercises, completion of original songs, and presentation and/or performance of songs.
MnTC Goals
6 Humanities/Fine Arts

Prerequisite(s): None
Corequisite(s): None
Recommendation: Basic note-reading ability and/or experience playing an instrument.

Major Content

Song structure, style, type, and cultural contexts
Musical elements of a song
Writing lyrics and music
Basic arranging for voices and instruments
Strategies for producing and marketing songs

Learning Outcomes
At the end of this course students will be able to:

describe elements of song structure, style, and type.
analyze songs based on their structure, musical elements, lyrics, and cultural context.
describe basic methods of arranging, producing, and marketing songs.
explain elements of songwriting craft in diverse traditions, such as lyrics, melody writing, rhythm, and chord progressions.
write original songs.
present and/or perform original songs.

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MUSC 1060 - Songwriting