Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/songwriting-writing-the-music
Do you have a notebook overflowing with lyrics, yearning for a melody to bring them to life? Or perhaps you’re a seasoned songwriter looking to inject fresh inspiration into your compositions? If either of these sounds like you, then Coursera’s “Songwriting: Writing the Music” course, led by the esteemed Scarlet Keys, is an absolute must-take.
This course is a treasure trove for anyone looking to craft memorable and expressive melodies. Scarlet Keys, an award-winning songwriter and professor at the Berklee College of Music, expertly guides you through the process of building strong musical foundations for your songs. Even if you’re a complete beginner who’s never read a note of music, this course demystifies the world of harmony and melody, opening up a universe of creative possibilities.
The syllabus is thoughtfully structured, starting with the fundamentals of “Choosing Emotive Chords.” Here, you’ll dive into diatonic chords, learn the magic of borrowing non-diatonic chords for evocative harmonies, and explore popular progressions to perfectly complement your lyrical narratives. The course then progresses to “Creating Contrast with Harmonic Rhythm,” where you’ll discover the power of 7th chords and added tensions to add depth and interest. You’ll learn how to manipulate harmonic rhythm to support your melodies and lyrics, and crucially, how to use it to create distinct contrast between different sections of your song.
“Developing Interesting Melodies” is where the true magic happens. You’ll explore various melodic shapes, learn to craft compelling hooks, and understand the interplay of stable and unstable tones to create captivating melodic lines. The emphasis on melodic contrast between song sections is a game-changer for keeping your listeners engaged.
Finally, “Telling a Story with the Music” brings it all together. This module focuses on how to use chord tones and non-chord tones to highlight your melodies, ensuring your music powerfully conveys the emotion and meaning of your lyrics. You’ll also get practical advice on setting lyrics to melody and harmony effectively, and even explore creating melodies in minor keys.
Overall, “Songwriting: Writing the Music” is an incredibly practical and inspiring course. Scarlet Keys’ teaching style is clear, engaging, and encouraging, making complex musical concepts accessible. Whether you’re looking to write your first song or refine your existing skills, this course provides the tools and knowledge to elevate your songwriting to new heights. Highly recommended!
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/songwriting-writing-the-music