Songwriting Berklee College of Music

Overview

Through listening and analysis, you will be able to recognize and discuss quality elements in musical and lyrical structures. You will learn arranging techniques that support the style and structure of a song with appropriate instrumentation. You will develop your own voice as a songwriter and learn to write more effectively and efficiently, whether by yourself or in collaboration with other songwriters.

Upon completion of the Songwriting major at Berklee College of Music, you will be able to:

• Create song structures, harmonies, melodies, and lyrics that support and enhance the ideas that they want to express
• Identify and discuss quality elements in musical and lyrical structures
• Apply arranging techniques that support the style and structure of a song with appropriate instrumentation
• Craft song sections that connect, contrast, and flow together into a unified whole
• Use technology tools for remote, online collaboration
• Create high-quality song demos with a digital audio workstation
• Develop your own voice as a songwriter
• Write more effectively, efficiently, and on deadline, whether it’s by yourself or in collaboration with other songwriters
• Function in a professional manner in cowriting sessions
• Collaborate effectively in projects that involve writing for a specific artist or song type
• Understand legal and business considerations for songwriters, including copyright, deal structures, and revenue streams that support sustainability in the music industry