Songwriting and Music Improv

Or: "How To Be In a Band 101"

If you want to start a band, want to stretch yourself as a songwriter and musician, or just want to jam with other musicians, this is a great opportunity! This class seeks to facilitate the creativity and goals its of participants, whether they're experienced musicians or just getting started.

This class will cover the basics of songwriting, writing music as a group, improvising in a group (a.k.a. jamming), and the basics of performing in a group.  Come learn about tone, structure, rhyme scheme, dynamics, harmony, melody, rhythm, arrangement, the roles of instruments... and then how to break all those rules. 

We'll be close-listening and analyzing songs in each class as well as discussing the topic of the day. Bring your instrument, your voice, your songs, and your ideas! 

Instructor: Matthew Hamer

DETAILS:

Suggested age range: 13+

Outside work: None required, though students are always encouraged to move forward with projects outside of class.

Class requirements: No musical background is required, but if you own an instrument feel free to bring it to class.

When & where: Mondays at Spontaneous Celebrations in Jamaica Plain from 1:00-3:00, Jan. 29, Feb. 12, Mar. 5, Mar. 19, Apr. 2, and Apr. 23, 2018. Spontaneous Celebrations has off-street parking and is wheelchair-accessible. It is located at 45 Danforth Street near the Stony Brook T stop (directions).

Fee: $200 for the semester + $30 materials fee. Payment plans available. Class fees waived for families with financial need. (Waivers and payment plan information.)

Photo credit: Rebecca Wnuk