Songwriter's Toolbox

Songwriter's Toolbox Program

— Offered by Fulbright College of Arts & Sciences: Department of Music—

This program is a deep dive into the world of professional songwriting from the perspective of the songwriter. Through working with multi-platinum songwriter Kenny Lamb and University of Arkansas music professor Jake Hertzog, you will receive training in the art, craft and business of songwriting. The program covers melodic composition, lyric writing, songwriting history, and the unique processes of marketing, and pitching songs in an evolving music industry.

After taking this series, you will be able to:

Compose songs in contemporary style that demonstrates key elements of songwriting
Identify the importance of the social, industry, musical influence and chronological context of historical songs
Distinguish between the scholarly frame, artistic frame, and the commercial frame of a song
Assess the Technical elements of a song, including lyrics, melody, form, production, and style
Understand various methods of demo creation as applicable to songwriting
Describe the processes by which songs are marketed to various music industry agents

Online On-Demand Self-paced

Access / Completion Time:
3 Months Per Course

Apply For Free Training

U of A 10% discount available - view details

Technology Requirements

Course Access Information

Accessing Your Course

The process to finalize your enrollment into a class is not automated. Within 24 business hours you will receive an email with further information about how to access and begin your class. Please note that access to begin your class will be delayed if you register for a class on a weekend, a holiday, at the start of a U of A academic semester, when the U of A is closed for inclement weather, or when the U of A is closed for approx. 2 weeks over winter break.

COURSE 1

Lyric Writing

^$79

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This course highlights aspects of the lyric writing process such as rhyme, cliché and the art of finding “just the right way” to say something. Additionally, well known and creative examples of lyric writing are discussed and presented for analysis.

COURSE 2

Theory and Melody Composition for Songwriters

^$79

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Melodic construction is a key aspect of songwriting. In this course, concepts of melody and harmony are broken down and presented in relation to the songwriting process. Topics include melodic intervals, common chord progressions, and the use of chord tones in creating melodies.

COURSE 3

Marketing and Networking for Songwriters

^$79

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This course will take an intimate look at the important marketing and network building skills that can make or break a songwriter’s career. In an industry that is fundamentally built on connections, this course presents strategies for navigating and cultivating the type of nuanced professional relationships crucial for success. Topics include pitching songs, the use of song pluggers, proper etiquette, demo creation and the roles of music industry professionals in the songwriting world.

COURSE 4

Demo Tape

^$79

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This is a chance to receive feedback from established songwriters on student’s original songs. Up to three songs may be submitted for a critique of melody, lyrics, concept and commercial appeal. Submissions will not be critiqued on production quality. Feedback will reference concepts covered throughout the program.