Are you a lyricist looking to improve your craft? In this class, we work on numerous poetic and literary techniques, including rhyme, alliteration and assonance, and study the lyrics of songwriters ranging from Cole Porter to Eminem.
If you are new to songwriting, you will learn how to turn your thoughts and feelings into powerful song lyrics.
Those with more experience will learn new techniques and processes to enhance their songwriting and add new dimensions to your music.
This class meets monthly on Zoom. Join at any time. No music background or instruments are required for this class.
Have lyrics already written that you’d like feedback on? We invite you to bring one song to share with the class for group feedback.
Dates:
Class is offered once a month. Each month is a standalone class – check out the topics below and jump in at any time!
Register:
Prefer to pay via e-transfer? Email us at office@torontosongwritingschool.com to arrange payment.
Monthly Topics:
JANUARY – The Power of Poetry: How to Use Poetic Effects to Connect with Your Listener
Poetic language is what elevates the lyrics of Leonard Cohen and Joni Mitchell. Learn how poetry works and how to use it to bring power to your lyric writing.
FEBRUARY – Love Songs: Crafting Timeless Song Lyrics
Discover the art of crafting timeless love songs. Explore the lyrical techniques that will elevate your writing beyond cliche and make them truly resonate.
MARCH – Blank Space: Learning from Taylor Swift
Underestimate Taylor Swift at your peril! Her success isn’t a fluke – Swift is one of the best lyricists of the last quarter century. Learn her lyrical techniques to improve your own songs.
APRIL – Man of a Thousand Songs: Learning from Ron Hynes
Take a deep dive into the profound storytelling techniques of the legendary Ron Hynes, songwriting poetic laureate of Newfoundland. Let his poetic wisdom guide you in crafting lyrics that resonate and endure.
MAY – Crafting Emotion: A Phoebe Bridgers Lyric Writing Class
Embark on a lyrical journey inspired by the introspective genius of Phoebe Bridgers. Uncover the delicate balance of vulnerability and wit that defines Bridgers’ songwriting, and learn to weave your own narratives with depth and authenticity under her inspiring influence.
JUNE – Slip Slidin’ Away: Learning Paul Simon’s Technique to Great Lyrics
Paul Simon is a songwriting legend. Discover the art of storytelling through Simon’s lyrical brilliance and narrative finesse to elevate your own lyric writing.
SEPTEMBER – Hallelujah: Learning from Leonard Cohen
Dive into the enigmatic beauty of Leonard Cohen’s lyrics, and let his timeless wisdom guide you in crafting soul-stirring lyrics that resonate with depth and grace.
OCTOBER – Echoes of Eternity: Writing Songs about Death
Journey through the nuances of crafting emotionally resonant lyrics, delving into the power of words to navigate themes of grief and transcendence in a supportive and creative environment.
NOVEMBER – Lyrical Song Structure: How to Put It All Together
Understand the lyrical differences between verses, choruses and bridges to make your songwriting more effective.
DECEMBER – Deck the Halls: A Holiday Song Workshop
It’s the season of jingle bells and falling snow. Learn how to write your own original holiday song that stands the test of time.