Program Overview

Songwriting

Course Overview

Songwriting is the backbone of the music industry, and it’s not as simple as it may seem to write a smash hit. You'll learn how contemporary songs are written, how they’re structured and what it takes to craft a chart-topper! This Songwriting course is delivered by professional songwriters who have worked with artists such as Jamelia, Bob Marley, Warren G, Sugababes, All Saints and more.

The Songwriting course teaches students how contemporary songs are put together and what makes them successful. If you want to sell your songs and make a living from your music, then it's essential that you have an understanding of music theory, composition and arrangement techniques. We also look at the music industry now and explore copyright, publishing and promotion. Practical exercises form an integral part of this course so students are expected to be able to either play an instrument, sing or have some experience in music production software such as Logic Pro or Ableton Live.

pointblank classes are small to ensure you receive ample 1-2-1 time with your lecturers. Our studios are located in Shoreditch—a global hub of London music venues, bars and networking opportunities.

Modules

Songwriting Principles

This module aims to underscore the key compositional elements contained within songwriting. It will provide an overview of principle songwriting concepts, such as storytelling, melodic hooks, chord progressions, rhythm, structure and production approaches underpinned in a range of popular music genres. The module will therefore introduce learners with the fundamental tools required to write great songs. There will be an additional component of continued reflective practice, enabling songwriters to analyse and critique their creative products with the aim to develop artistically and professionally.

• Principles of Songwriting
• The Songwriting Cycle
• Techniques to getting started
• The Story – Lyrics
• The Hook – Melody
• The Music – Chords
• The Groove – Rhythm
• That Sound – Production
• Popular Music Structures
• Reflective Practice

Expert Lecturers

• Linton Bennett: Music Composition
• Alex Wood: Vocal Performance
• Carroll Thompson: Singing

Discounts

Enjoy a range of exclusive discounts including but not limited to:

• 50% off NI Komplete, Ableton Live Suite & Roland Cloud
• 30% off NI Kontrol & Maschine
• 25% off Adam Audio & Focusrite

Career Opportunities

Songwriters have the potential to earn a significant income through royalties, performance rights, and licensing fees. The entertainment industry has never been bigger with multiple platforms on the lookout for content and music every day. Talented songwriters who consistently produce high-quality work can build lucrative careers over time through artists, movies, theatre, TV shows, commercials, video games, and other media.

• SONGWRITER
• MUSIC PRODUCER
• VOCALIST
• MUSIC ARRANGER
• MUSICAL DIRECTOR
• LYRICIST
• RAPPER
• MUSIC PUBLISHER
• ARTIST/PERFORMER
• A&R LABEL MANAGER

FAQ

• I am an International Student. How do I apply?
  • For courses longer than 6 months: you will be required to apply for a Student Visa. pointblank is able to sponsor you on a Student Visa for degree programmes. Please refer to our International Student Guidance section for more information on the application process.
  • For courses of 6 months or less: you may need to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa. All courses completed in less than 6 months can be possible without applying for a Student Visa. Please refer to our International Student Guidance section for more information on the application process.
• Do I need to buy software & equipment to take the course?
  • Depending on your programme, certain hardware and software will be essential throughout your studies. To help with your independent learning and assessment work, you will need to have access to this equipment outside of the campus. However, if you are able to attend classes on campus, this equipment will be available to use either in class or by booking practice time. Note that you have access to our facilities 7 days a week during term time for the length of your course (excluding scheduled breaks). Please visit our software and hardware requirements for short courses page which lists the hardware and software you are required to own for each subject. Where you may choose to study online (distance learning), this equipment will be essential to your studies and assignment work. If you wish to buy equipment or software, pointblank students qualify for discounts from Apple Education, Ableton, Native Instruments, Serato, Pioneer DJ and other leading industry partners.
• What is my weekly study schedule?
  • Each module requires your attendance at one class which will be 3 or 4 hours long depending on the module. You will also have two 30-minute tutorials with your lecturer per module per term for additional support. Your timetable will be confirmed a week before the start of each term. In addition to your classes, you are expected to schedule sufficient independent study and practice time each week. The school facilities are open 7 days a week during term time, allowing you to work on assignments and reinforce the knowledge and skills learned throughout the term.
• Help! My question is not answered here
  • If you have further questions, don't be shy, please contact a course advisor who will be happy to help.