Guildhall Young Artists Online Singer Songwriting

About Singer Songwriting 

Learn to write and sing your own songs and discover which type of songwriter you are. If you have never written anything before you will be given the tools to get started and learn strategies to beat writer's block.

Who is it for?

Anyone aged 11–18, who would like to learn how to write and sing their own songs. Playing a chordal instrument would be beneficial but not essential eg. guitarists, piano players and ukulele players

What can I expect? 

Each week you will be given practical exercises and tools to create or develop your own songs.

Term one
You will begin to understand what kind of singer songwriter you are and how to link your lyrics to melodies in your song-writing journey.  You will learn tools to get your original ideas flowing and craft lyrics that have depth and meaning.

Term two
You will analyse the lyrics and structure of classic songs.  You will learn how to hold motifs and create hooks for a good chorus.

Term three
By the end of the course you will:

• Know how to write your own songs 
• Identify chord progressions utilised in hit songs and how they might inform your own song-writing 
• Know how to combine lyrics and melodies to create a compelling narrative in your music 
• Identify key features used in hit songs and how to use them in your own 

Students will participate in this class on Tuesdays. Another day/time may be arranged for the 2024/25 academic year. If the current time is unsuitable for you, please mention this in your enquiry.

Please note that class content could be subject to change.

About the Course Tutor

Nell Greco
Nell Greco is a jazz singer and songwriter based in London. Her debut album, ‘Inanima’, released in November 2023 received critical acclaim, and plans are afoot to tour the record in late 2024. You can also find her performing Ruth Goller’s Skylla and as one half of the duo, Akimbo.

“Poetic lyrics full of delicate reflectiveness, restrained anger and intimate confidings.” John Fordham, The Guardian

Do I need anything?

• An email address
• A reliable internet connection
• A computer/laptop/tablet with a microphone and a camera.
• Your browser fully updated to be able to use the most recent version of Zoom (if using an Apple device we recommend installing an alternative browser such as Google Chrome or Mozilla).

The following items are recommended, but optional:

• Headphones
• Manuscript paper and a pencil

Please ensure you are able to work in a well-lit and quiet environment so that your tutor is able to fully assess your work and performance.