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It's All in the Song I - Songwriter and Performer

August 5-8, 2013

ANNOUNCEMENT: Students who complete It's All in the Song I - Songwriter and Performer (August 5-8), and It's All in the Song II - Songwriter and Producer (August 12-15), will receive a $100 discount.

What's the program like?

The Berklee in Los Angeles It's All in the Song I - Songwriter and Performer program gives you an unparalleled opportunity to explore songwriting, vocal technique, style, and performance.

What makes you stand out from the crowd when you audition for that competition, scholarship, part, or gig? We'll help you find your unique strengths.

And landing the gig is only half of it. Once you're in, living up to expectations means putting on a great performance each and every time.

Are you comfortable when you get up on stage? Do you know what it takes?

The Berklee in Los Angeles It's All in the Song I - Songwriter and Performer program will give you insight into song selection, musicianship, your look, and how to present yourself, all of which will help set you apart.

Classes will include singer-songwriter workshop, melody writing, lyric writing, harmony, arranging your music, creating your own demo and recordings, stage performance workshop, and vocal techniques. The program will be held in Santa Monica, California near the heart of the leading entertainment capital of the world.

Location: Santa Monica High School, 601 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405

Who are the instructors?

The program will be taught by Berklee faculty members.

What's the schedule?

Clinics generally will run from 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., and there will be evening activities which may include concerts and open mic sessions.

  • Singer-Songwriter Workshop:
    Participants will perform their original songs in class and will receive feedback and critiques about the songs and their performances with advice on how to improve their overall presentation. Songwriters can accompany themselves on guitar or piano, or have someone accompany them; use of prerecorded music is encouraged.
  • Songwriting Composition Techniques:
    Topics include melody writing, chord progressions, chord sounds, and modulations. Arranging techniques will include inversions, reharmonization, use of pedal points and ostinato, and groove writing.
  • Lyric Writing:
    Topics include setting words to music and music to words, alliteration, rhymes and near rhymes, and writing from title. Participants will have opportunities to collaborate with fellow students.
  • Creating your Own Demo and Recordings:
    How to produce quality demos and ways to market them.
  • Stage Performance Workshop:
    Participants will work on song selection, stage presence and presentation, musicianship, and personal style. Students will also learn various techniques that will enhance auditioning and performance skills, and have an opportunity to perform in front of fellow students and the faculty, and receive feedback.
  • Showcases:
    Each evening, faculty, guest artists, and students will perform their songs in various settings (concerts/open mic nights). Friends, parents, and family are welcome to attend the evening showcases.

Where will I eat and sleep?

Students are responsible for researching and booking their own lodging. There are a number of lodging options within walking distance to the event location. Students are encouraged to research these options online. Lunch will be included as part of the program. Students are responsible for their own breakfast and dinner.