Stuck in a rut?
Not sure where to start?
Struggling with lyrics?
Finding it hard to finish?
Do you think your songs suck?
Not sure where to start?
Struggling with lyrics?
Finding it hard to finish?
Do you think your songs suck?
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Hi, I'm Charlotte Yates. I'm a singer-songwriter, a songwriting coach and the founder of Songwriting School where each week I teach songwriting, online in real time.
Are you stuck in a songwriting rut?
As a songwriting coach, I work with songwriters from all over the world who experience these problems daily! They can find it hard to finish songs to the standard they're comfortable with. They feel frustrated and drained by their lack of progress and overwhelmed by the masses of conflicting information available on the internet. Or they know something's not quite right and aren't sure what the next step should be. What if there was an easier way to write songs without having to drum up gallons of willpower? Songs you actually like, that don't sound boring or unoriginal. Songs that say what you want to say, in a way you want to say it! The good news is there is a solution. To have output, you need input. A way forward when you're not clear. Regular, songwriting lessons with constructive feedback, in a supportive interactive environment that you can access every week, from the privacy of your own home or tour bus! That's Songwriting School. But can songwriting even be taught?
Yes! Like every art form, songwriting has its own conventions and techniques that can be learned, practiced and incorporated into your own artistic vision. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned pro, there's always more to learn, current practices to be updated on and fresh insights to absorb. Songwriting is multi-faceted with many moving parts. It's hard to be brilliant at all of them! There are different levels to master and skills to develop. Just like learning a new language, a new instrument or a new sport.... only cooler, because it's songwriting! 
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Not sure where to start?
There's a ton of reasons to write your first song - from preparing to enter Rock Quest to wanting something special to play at your brother's wedding, being inspired by the songs you thrash on your playlist or dreaming of hearing your music played live at your favourite venue. Or just feeling the urge! Learning the basics can kickstart you. You'll write better, faster and with a great deal less hassle than reinventing the wheel. Don't know where to start? Start something good, right here! Welcome to Songwriting School! Do you have to play an instrument well?
Technically, no. Some skill on an instrument will help, but songwriting requires a slightly different approach and skill set. You may have more ability as a songwriter than you think. I've worked with highly experienced singers, guitarists, drummers and other great musicians to help them develop their own material. Being a terrific musician doesn't necessarily mean you are automatically a terrific songwriter. But great musicians understand the value of regular, supportive tuition when diving deep into a new field of music. |
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Do you struggle with lyrics?
Many songwriters find it challenging to write fresh and compelling lyrics. They're put off by bad press about pop song lyrics and complain about how easy it is to write cheese. But without lyrics, you don't actually have a song. Lyrics are mission critical to a song's accessibility and longevity. Because the copyright of a song is 50% lyric and 50 % melody, I think it's worth spending equal time on both lyrics and music. Whether you collaborate or go solo creating lyrics, there's so much useful information you can readily learn and put into practice. This will improve the impact of your songs, and if you're collaborating, it will let you confidently take your seat at the songwriting table. |
Do your songs suck?
Well, they might! But the good thing is you're aware enough to ask the question! Chances are not all of your songs will suck, or at least, not completely. The solution is knowing what will or won't help your songs to connect with an audience. Remember, no one is a genius 24/7. But rather than stay in 'suction', learn how to upgrade all aspects your songwriting overtime. Songwriting School will teach you to write songs you're truly proud of. |
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But don't you have to be talented?
Yes and no! You may not actually know the full extent of your creativity. You may have put your dreams to one side and want to reconnect with your music. What we do know is that creativity can be encouraged and fostered. Songwriting School concentrates on building a firm foundation of songwriting technique, knowledge and encouragement to give you the best shot for your ideas and your abilities to flourish. |
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Will Songwriting School make me a star?
That's not something anyone can really guarantee.
What I do know is that great music will always find a willing audience.
Writing the best songs you can is a solid start!
That's not something anyone can really guarantee.
What I do know is that great music will always find a willing audience.
Writing the best songs you can is a solid start!