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Adult Songwriting Workshops: Beginner Class

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This event occurred 7 years ago.
Class (drop-in)
Saturday, October 22nd, 2016
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Harmony Music House
2525 Broadway Street
Boulder, CO

Adult Songwriting Workshops: 

Beginner: Oct. 22

Intermediate: Nov. 5

Advanced: Nov. 19

more info at: http://www.harmonymusichouse.com/music-programs/adult-songwriting-workshop

This series is developed for people interested in learning how to write songs as well as seasoned songwriters looking for new approaches. Feel free to sign up for the one that feels right for you or the whole series! Regardless what you sign up for (just one, two, or all three), you’re invited to our songwriting party on Tuesday, November 22nd! You’ll have an opportunity to play what you’ve written and hear what other people have created!

If you’re not sure which class is right for you, feel free to contact Riley to discuss where you’d be the most comfortable!

Beginning Songwriting (Saturday, Oct. 22, 9am-12) Session 1

This class is designed for people who want to learn the basics of how to write a song. We will look at the foundation of theory as it applies to songwriting, which includes an introduction to chords, chord progressions, and melodies. We will look at how knowing the key of a song helps us better understand what chords are are commonly used and what some common patterns are for putting chords together. We’ll also look at some common forms of songs. Through use of analyzing popular songs, discussions, and hands-on exercises, you will walk out with tools and experience writing songs! Coffee and a light snack will be provided during the class.

This class is great for people just learning their instrument as well as people who have been playing for years! If you want to learn how to write your first song (or just develop a better understanding of basic theory), this class is for you! There is no previous experience required!

 What to bring: a notebook, writing utensil, and (if you like!) an instrument.

Sign up for Session 1

Sign up for Session 1 & 2

Sign up for the whole series (Session 1, 2 , & 3)

 About the Instructor:

Riley Ann White Pines smiling banjo picRiley Ann began playing with instruments before she knew what they were. She began piano lessons before her feet could touch the floor and Suzuki violin lessons before she was in Kindergarten. As the number of instruments she played began to expand, so did her love of music. Riley began saxophone in 5th grade band, bought her first guitar in college, picked up mandolin, banjo, and drum set in her 20s, and she continues to develop her musical vocabulary through constant exploration. She spent her time mostly in the classical world, playing in wind ensembles, orchestras, jazz combos, string quartets, sinfonietta, and singing in various choirs. However, in her 20s, she saw The Blackberry Bushes perform and immediately fell in love with Old-time and bluegrass fiddle. Riley immediately immersed herself in traditional fiddle tunes by learning from a local string band, joining an Americana band with friends, and creating her own all-female string band, The Matriarchs. Through her own journey, Riley is adept at learning and teaching both by ear and musical notation. 

The core of Riley's teaching philosophy is that teachers should teach the student, not the content. She sees her role as a mentor to help students achieve their own goals and to foster students' sense of ownership in their lessons and their music. Students who are engaged and curious about what they are exploring will develop the deepest sense of gratification from their efforts (as well as make the most progress), which cultivates a lifetime love of music.

With 6 years of experience teaching high school English and a lifelong passion for music, Riley appreciates understanding where each student is and where they'd like to be. Having played in various folk groups, classical and jazz ensembles, ska bands, and an electronic band, she loves the creative process in any context and looks forward to assisting students of all ages to pursue their own personal journeys.

Currently, Riley Ann plays out as a one-woman band and as a founding member of The Darling Ravens.

Cost
$45 - $55 each
More Information
Harmony Music House


www.harmonymusichouse.com
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