Advanced lyric writing for popular music

Receive instant constructive feedback on your existing lyrics and try out new techniques and ideas. Learn how to write to a specific brief in different genres, and edit and refine your work. Ideal for more experienced lyricists and singer songwriters.

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Key course information

Dates
22/04/12 - 20/05/12

Day(s)
Sun

Duration
5 weeks

Time
13:00 - 14:30

Fees
Full fee: £66^NC

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
MG844

Availability
This course has finished

^NC: No concessionary fees available as there is no government funding for this course.

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
music@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2630

Course outline

What is the course about?

Intermediate and advanced techniques for more experienced lyricists and singer-songwriters who wish to create lyrics specific to Pop Music. We will listen to and analyse some of your favourite songs in the Pop Music genre (such as indie, rock, ‘emo’ dance, commercial pop, rap, new soul, and R n B) so we can pinpoint what makes these lyrics so powerful and original. Receive instant constructive feedback on your existing lyrics and try out new techniques and ideas. Edit and refine your work, and collaborate with other songwriters/lyricists.

What topics will we cover?

- Editing and structuring your work
- Scanning, metre and rhythm
- Creating original imagery and word play and a memorable chorus hook
- Writing lyrics to an existing melody
- Writing lyrics in a particular style or format (i.e Girl Band or Solo Artist)
- Collaborating with others.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

- Create a chorus hook
- Structure and edit your ideas effectively
- Find your own lyric writing style
- Listen to and analyse songs in a variety of styles
- Create lyrics in a variety of styles
- Collaborate with others.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

Suitable for experienced songwriters, singer-songwriters and lyricists, and those who have attended the City Lit Course ‘How to Write Pop Lyrics’. You will need to understand the basics of song form, word-play and imagery and be aware of current trends in Pop Music and have existing work to bring to class. You will need to follow written and verbal instructions in English, engage in class discussions and take notes in English.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The emphasis is on practical work in class. You will be asked to complete homework to show in class.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Examples of your existing work on Mp3, CD or You Tube or photocopies or USB memory stick. Please bring a notebook, pen, USB memory stick. Instrumentalists please bring your instrument with you (apart from pianists).

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made. There will be continuous assessment of written and practical homework.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

At the end of the course you can explore Song lyric genre: musical theatre or Write song lyrics at City Lit.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2630

music@citylit.ac.uk

Auditions and Advice Information

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

Contact us

Music

Tel: 020 7492 2630

music@citylit.ac.uk

Auditions and Advice Information

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

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