Berklee

Songwriting: Writing the Lyrics

This course is part of multiple programs.

Pat Pattison

Instructor: Pat Pattison

131,437 already enrolled

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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.8

(873 reviews)

Beginner level

Recommended experience

Flexible schedule
Approx. 15 hours
Learn at your own pace
97%
Most learners liked this course
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.8

(873 reviews)

Beginner level

Recommended experience

Flexible schedule
Approx. 15 hours
Learn at your own pace
97%
Most learners liked this course

What you'll learn

  • Define and identify the point of view, form, and the "who, what, where, when, and how" in a song

  • Identify whether a lyric is stable or unstable through the use of line lengths, number of lines, stressed and unstressed syllables, and melody

  • Utilize the various rhyming techniques to evoke specific emotions in a song and define the difference between Assonance and Consonance rhyme

  • Use phrasing to clarify your ideas

Details to know

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Assessments

6 assignments

Taught in English

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There are 5 modules in this course

Welcome to the course! Here we will cover all the details about the course and what you'll need to know to get the most out of your experience.

What's included

4 readings1 assignment

By the end of this lesson, you will see how to develop your song idea so it creates an interesting journey from start to finish. You’ll understand your options developing the point of view of your song and will be introduced to the songwriter’s six best friends.

What's included

4 videos4 readings2 assignments1 discussion prompt

By the end of this lesson, you will understand the concept of prosody as it relates to the number of lines/musical phrases in a section and to line lengths/musical phrases. You’ll create both stable and unstable line/musical groupings, using an odd or even number of lines and musical phrases. Using these tools, you’ll write a verse and chorus.

What's included

6 videos2 readings1 assignment1 peer review1 discussion prompt

By the end of this lesson, you will understand the relationship of rhyme schemes to prosody. You’ll create both stable and unstable sections, using various rhyme schemes to show your ear the way to go home. Using these tools, you’ll write a new verse and chorus.

What's included

13 videos2 readings1 assignment1 peer review

By the end of this lesson, you will understand language rhythms—the difference between stressed and unstressed syllables and how to put rhythm in your lines, preparing them to join into the dance with musical rhythm. Using these tools, you’ll put last week’s verse and chorus to music.

What's included

12 videos1 reading1 assignment1 peer review1 discussion prompt

Instructor

Instructor ratings
4.8 (175 ratings)
Pat Pattison
Berklee
7 Courses198,179 learners

Offered by

Berklee

Recommended if you're interested in Music and Art

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