Media, Music & Sound Production
Contemporary Songwriting
Campus Milton Road Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 6
Study mode Evening
Start date Multiple available
Choose your study options
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Course overview
In this songwriting course, you’ll learn how contemporary songs are put together and what makes them successful. If you want to write songs and make a living from your music, then it's essential that you have at least a basic understanding of music theory, composition, lyric-writing and arrangement techniques.
In addition to the craft of songwriting, you will explore some fundamental commercial aspects such as copyright, how to self-release and distribute your music and how to approach labels and publishers. Practical exercises form an integral part of this course, and students are expected to have a basic understanding of an instrument or voice, or some experience in music production software such as Logic Pro or Ableton Live.
What you will learn
Working between musical and studio settings, you will learn:
- Songs and songwriters (analysis and deconstruction)
- Lyric writing (from generating ideas to hooks and rhyme)
- Hooks and riffs
- Chord progressions, Top-line and Melody
- Fundamental arranging, including structure and instrumentation
- Music theory for songwriting and production
- Finishing songs
- Fundamental commercial and professional practices and how to grow your career
Placement information
Contemporary SongwritingEntry requirements
- No formal entrance requirements
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Milton Road Campus | Evening | 21/10/25 |
| Milton Road Campus | Evening | 27/01/26 |
