Songwriting Workshop

Boston
Ages 15+
Immerse yourself in the art of songwriting and discover effective melody, rhythm, harmony, and lyrical techniques. In this one-week program, you'll receive expert support and feedback on your original material from current industry professionals while learning tips and tricks for being successful in today's music industry.
Dates
June 24-June 28
Check-in Time
Coming Soon
Move-out
2024-06-28, 12:00 PM
Tuition
$1,295
Housing
$895
Registration fee
$50 (nonrefundable)
 

How to Enroll

  1. Submit your registration by May 1.* Begin by submitting your registration online. If applicable, you may need to submit additional supporting materials.
  2. Make your tuition payment by May 1.* All programs have limited capacity, so be sure to complete your full tuition payment to reserve your space in the program.
  3. Request housing. Students who are 15 years of age or older by the start of their Boston-based program are eligible to stay in on-campus housing. If you meet the eligibility requirements and have indicated that you would like to request on-campus housing, please revisit your registration portal and submit a Residence Hall Agreement.

*Please note: This program has limited capacity. Submission of registration materials alone does not guarantee participation in the program. You will secure your spot by paying in full.

Curriculum

At the workshop, you will participate in the following core classes throughout the week.

  • Songwriting class: In this class taught by our renowned Songwriting Department faculty, you will explore song form, melody, lyrics, and chord progressions.
  • Mentoring group: Mentors are Berklee alumni who have been handpicked for their talent, their dedication to craft, and their ability to give compassionate and specific feedback as they help orient students to their first Berklee experience.
  • Visiting artist presentation: Every year, we ask visiting artists to share their experiences in the industry as songwriters. Topics range from songwriting techniques and improving your artistry to business tips and career advice. Previous visiting artists include Wrabel, Kara DioGuardi, and Will Dailey.

Students will choose three required electives and have the option to take three additional electives as well. Each participant will rank their topic preferences before starting the program. The following list of electives gives you a sense of what to expect:

  • Writer Camp (two electives)
  • Singer-Songwriter Workshop
  • Working with a Band (three electives)
  • Introduction to Production for Songwriters (two electives)
  • ​DIY Singer-Songwriter
  • Write a Song in 90 Minutes
  • Stage Performance Workshop
  • Hip-Hop Songwriting
  • Topline Writing for Pop, R&B, and EDM
  • Vocal Techniques for Songwriters
  • Guitar Style for Songwriters
  • Keyboard Styles for Songwriters
  • Songwriting for Film and TV
  • Improvisation Workshop
  • Mailbox Money: Making a Living with Your Music
  • Marketing and Media for Songwriters
  • Intermediate/Advanced Harmony for Songwriters (two electives)
  • Contemporary Musical Theater Writing
Schedule

Below is a sample of a typical day in the program.

TimeEvent
8 AM–8:50 AMBreakfast
9 AM–10:20 AMMentoring group or songwriting class
10:30 AM–11:50 AMMentoring group or songwriting class
12 PM–1 PMLunch
1 PM–2:20 PMVisiting artist presentation
2:30 PM–3:50 PMElective or master class
4 PM–5:20 PMElective
5:30 PM–7 PMDinner
7 PM–9:30 PMOpen mics

Schedule subject to change.

Performance Opportunities

Students have the opportunity to perform in multiple open mics throughout the program. 

Requirements

General Requirements

All students 15 and older with some background in songwriting are welcome to attend.

Participants must possess a proficient level of English to enroll in this program. We do not require proof of English language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo) as part of the enrollment or application process; however, you are expected to have a sufficient command of the English language to understand class material and assignments.

Required Materials

  • Notebook: Be sure to bring a notebook or have some other way to save your ideas—you will have lots of them.
  • Completed song (optional): If you wish to showcase a song during the workshop, you may bring a recording or prepare a performance. Typed lyrics or a lead sheet are also necessary to supplement a completed song. A lead sheet consists of the melody transcribed on staff paper, with the lyrics below and the chord symbols above the melody.
  • Your instrument (optional): If you choose to bring your instrument, please also bring any accessories (capo, tuner, strap, etc.) you may wish to have, and label them with your name and phone number.

Visiting Artist

  • MAZBOU Q headshot

    Mazbou Q

    Mazbou Q is a UK-born, Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland)–based, Nigerian artist, producer, content creator, and educator. Stemming from his background in classical, heavy metal and West African highlife, Mazbou Q's particular brand of hip-hop pushes the boundaries of the genre. Also known as "the rap scientist" across social media, Mazbou Q’s presentation of a rhythm theory–based framework for the analysis of rap flow inspires music enthusiasts and practitioners alike.
Once You've Enrolled

The Berklee Summer Programs Team is excited that you've taken the first step! Now that you've enrolled, here's what to know, to be sure you're prepared before and after you check in for the experience of a lifetime.

What to do first?

Complete These Tasks by June

Prepare to Arrive and Check In

Access the Summer Programs Help Center

Explore some of these top articles from the Summer Programs Help Center.