PLEASE NOTE: This program has not been updated with 2012 program information. Information about the 2012 program will appear online shortly. Until then, feel free to browse the information about our 2011 program, to get a sense of what the program is like.
It's All In The Song: Writing, Production, and the Business of Music
The Berklee in Los Angeles program will guide the aspiring musician in a variety of aspects in songwriting, stage performance, production, and the business of music.
Through both individual and team efforts, students will work through the processes and techniques involved in writing, producing, and marketing a song from conception to completion. Lectures and ensemble sessions will range from song form and lyric analysis to using various tools to facilitate the creative process, including introductions to music software and the fundamental procedures of a recording studio. Berklee’s Music Business/Management Department will tie it all up by introducing you to the business tools necessary to compete in today’s ever-changing music industry.
The program will take place on the campus of Alexander Hamilton High School Academy of Music in Culver City, California. This program has a limited enrollment; we encourage you to apply early in order to secure a space.
Classes
- Songwriting Production
Learn from our master teachers the craft and the art of creating and producing a song. Study song forms. Explore the various musical elements of melody, harmony, and rhythm. Learn how to make your lyrics work with the melody of your song. - Recording Techniques
Students will discuss a variety of topics that will familiarize them with the basic techniques of recording and production as they apply to the needs of the songwriter. - Performance Techniques
Vocalists and instrumentalists will develop their live performance skills, rehearsal techniques, and stage presence. Students will have the opportunity to perform for the class and receive feedback from faculty and peers. - Music Business
Berklee’s Music Business/Management Department will present classes that focus on music business for bands and artists, including strategies for getting a record deal, the business and legal issues pertaining to record companies, music licensing and copyright, contracts, music promotion, and artist management. - Electives
Electives topics in the past have included music sequencing and notation software, lead sheet writing, audition techniques, recording lectures, and improvisation. Students will receive information in their acceptance materials about signing up.
Additional Activities
Closing Ceremony and Scholarships
The final ceremony will end with each student receiving a certificate for completing the program. Berklee College of Music will also announce some scholarship awards for those students demonstrating exceptional talent in the program.
Transportation
If you are flying, we recommend that you choose to arrive at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Additional travel information will be supplied once you have been accepted into the program.
Housing
Students are required to make their own housing arrangements. For a list of hotels in the area please go here.
Meals
Lunch will be provided.
Clothing
The weather in Los Angeles is usually warm (mid-80s) and dry. The evenings tend to be cool and comfortable (60s to low 70s). Dress is comfortable and casual.
Instruments and equipment
During the course of the program, students will have the opportunity to perform their own songs. There will be rhythm section players available to assist you in the performance of your song in class and in concert. We advise that all instrumentalists except keyboardists and drummers bring their own instruments. Drummers should bring sticks and brushes. Guitar and bass amps, drums, and keyboards will be provided for performances and the performance class. Vocalists should bring a low-impedance microphone and a cord.
Optional equipment may also include a laptop computer with music notation, sequencing and recording/production software (e.g. Finale, Sibelius, Garageband, Logic, Pro Tools, etc).
Remember to bring your songs. We advise that you put them into lead sheet format: melody, chord changes, and lyrics.
Berklee College of Music thanks Fender, Kawai, Shure, Yamaha, and Zildjian for providing instruments for student use in generous support of this program.
Registration
Upon acceptance to the program, you will receive details regarding registration day.
