Songwriting Workshop

Age 15+5 daysBoston

In this one-week program, you’ll receive expert support and feedback on your original material from current industry professionals.

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About the Program

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 28–July 2Register by May 1
Check-in / Move-in
Coming soon
Move-out
Coming soon
Tuition
$1,295 $1,095Save until Jan 31!
Housing
$895
Registration fee
$50 (nonrefundable)

How to Enroll

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

  1. Step 1Submit your registration

    Begin by submitting your registration online. If applicable, you may need to submit additional supporting materials.

  2. Step 2Make your tuition payment

    All programs have limited capacity, so be sure to complete your full tuition payment to reserve your space in the program.

  3. Step 3Request housing

    If you will be age 15 or older by the start of your Boston-based program and require on-campus accommodations, complete the Residence Hall Agreement in the Next Steps tab of your registration portal.

  4. Step 4Complete your next steps

    Visit the Next Steps section of your program to view and complete any additional requirements. Review the checklist to make sure you are on track.

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

Check out a typical day in the program. Schedules are subject to change.

Each Day

  • 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

Performance Opportunities

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

Performance Opportunities

Requirements

Program Director

  • Valerie Orth

    Valerie Orth

    "I teach the skills necessary to reach your goals as a songwriter. I want all my students, regardless of what society or the music industry is telling you, to have confidence in working with technology and producing your own recordings. You will be able to create the sound that you want and that is right for your song."

    Read Full Bio

Once You’ve Enrolled

The Berklee Summer Programs Team is excited that you’ve taken the first step! Now that you’re enrolled, here’s what you need to know to be prepared before check-in, and what to expect afterward.

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