SONGWRITING PROGRAM
The Songwriting programs at Musicians Institute are designed to create versatile songwriters who will have the skills to steadily work in today’s modern music industry.
Graduates of the BM program will be able to write and produce their own music, while exploring other areas of the industry, such as writing music for other artists or for TV, film and commercial placement.
LEARN MORE ABOUT MI
SONGWRITING SCHOOL – NURTURE YOUR TALENT AT MI – A PREMIER COLLEGE FOR SONGWRITING
Are you a budding songwriter with dreams of making it big in the music industry? Look no further than Musicians Institute (MI), your gateway to a successful songwriting career. As a songwriting major, MI students stand out among others at colleges for songwriting. The songwriting major offers specialized songwriting classes and programs tailored to help you master the art of crafting compelling songs.
Our songwriting classes are at the heart of what makes MI one of the top schools for songwriters. We provide students with a holistic understanding of the songwriting process, taking you from that initial burst of creativity to the polished final product. Whether you’re interested in writing songs for yourself or for other artists, MI’s songwriting program covers it all.
Our curriculum focuses on key areas like lyric writing, melody creation, recording techniques, and production skills – all vital components of becoming a successful songwriter. Our experienced faculty, comprised of industry professionals, will guide you through the intricacies of songwriting, providing you with valuable insights and mentorship.
When you choose MI over other colleges for songwriting, you’ll graduate from our Bachelor of Music (BM) program equipped with a professional-quality demo. This demo includes fully recorded tracks, expertly mixed and mastered, along with liner notes that showcase your creative process. This invaluable tool will serve as your passport to the music industry, helping you land songwriting gigs and collaborations.
But MI isn’t just about teaching you how to become a songwriter; it’s about nurturing your unique talent and passion. Our songwriting program is a creative incubator where you can explore your artistic voice, experiment with various genres, and collaborate with fellow students who share your love for music.
So, whether you’re here to learn how to become a songwriter for other artists or embark on a journey as a solo artist, Musicians Institute is your destination. Join us today, and let your creativity soar in the world of songwriting. Transform your passion into a rewarding career and make your mark in the music industry with MI by your side.
SONGWRITING DEGREES OFFERED
BACHELOR OF MUSIC IN SONGWRITING AND PRODUCTION
Gain Comprehensive Songwriting Skills: Write and Produce Your Own Music or Create for TV, Film, and Commercials
At Musicians Institute (MI), we offer extensive training in songwriting, equipping you with the ability to write and produce your own music, as well as compose for other artists. Our comprehensive curriculum also prepares you for opportunities in TV, film, and commercial placements, expanding your career prospects in the music industry. Master the art of songwriting and production at MI, and unlock your full potential as a versatile music professional.
CERTIFICATE IN SONGWRITING
Build a Solid Foundation for a Successful Songwriting Career with MI’s Education and Practical Training
Musicians Institute (MI) equips students with the essential education and hands-on training needed to establish a thriving career as a professional songwriter in today’s competitive music and entertainment industry. Learn from industry experts and gain the skills required to excel in the contemporary music landscape, all while pursuing your passion for songwriting.
MI SELECT & NON-CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS
MI Select are non-certificate programs designed to provide students with “a taste of MI” if they want another option to full-time. Students can create their own customized schedule from available classes and workshops, while enjoying access to the special guest clinics, extra activities and other industry networking opportunities.
CAREERS IN SONGWRITING
Explore Diverse Career Opportunities with MI’s Songwriting Program
At Musicians Institute (MI), our songwriting program goes beyond general music-related classes and electives. We focus on providing graduates with the specialized knowledge and skills required to excel in a variety of career paths within the music industry. Some potential career options for MI songwriting program graduates include:
PERFORMER
ACCOMPANIST (STUDIO OR LIVE)
ARRANGER
BAND MEMBER
PRODUCT REP
SONGWRITER
MUSIC DIRECTOR
TRANSCRIBER
COPYIST
MUSIC SUPERVISOR
SONGWRITING PROGRAM DETAILS
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
- Write, perform and record original music.
- Write and arrange a Senior Project Portfolio, editing Lead Vocals, Backing Vocals, Live band with horns and virtual instrumentation.
- Mix, master and create liner notes for professional demo to be used after graduation.
- How to use industry standard recording and notation software including Logic, Pro Tools, Abelton Live, Sibelius and others.
COURSE CATALOG
For a detailed look at all of MI’s program offerings, you can find the course catalog here.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS: BACHELOR
Students looking to apply to Musicians Institute Bachelor of Music in Songwriting and Production program should have working knowledge and experience in each of the follows areas:
Music Theory
- Notating all major and minor scales (bass and treble clefs)
- Key signatures, time signatures (simple and compound)
- Intervals, triads, and seventh chord construction
- Basic harmonic analysis using both treble clef and grand staff
Ear Training
- Hearing and identifying diatonic scale members and intervals Hearing basic chord qualities
- Hearing and notating basic rhythms
- Hearing and notating basic chord progressions
Instrument (All Instruments)
- All major and minor scales (two octaves)
- Ability to read melodies and rhythms in simple time signatures
- Ability to play different styles of music (i.e. rock, latin, funk, jazz) Ability to read chord charts and master rhythm parts
- Ability to play with consistent time-feel (with and without a metronome)
- Experience playing in small or large ensembles
GUITAR
- Ability to play various seventh chord voicings
- Ability to comp. in various styles with appropriate sound
KEYBOARD
- Ability to play scales (both hands – similar and contrary motion)
- Ability to play seventh chord voicings
- Ability to comp. in various styles
BASS
- Ability to play blues and other standard song forms
- Ability to create a part from an existing chord chart
DRUM
- Ability to play basic rudiments
- Ability to read snare drum music
- Ability to read drum kit specific charts
- Ability to play solid time and groove in various styles
VOCAL
- Ability to sing scales and intervals in tune (without instrumental support) Good intonation throughout vocal range
- Ability to read vocal parts
- Ability to demonstrate good time and phrasing
- Basic ability to sing in various vocal styles
SONGWRITING & PRODUCTION
- Meet the above requirements on your instrument/voice
- Have written and can perform at least 2 original songs
- Familiar with working on a DAW
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS: CERTIFICATE
A. Submit two performed pieces that best represent your style and abilities on your instrument or voice. At least one piece should be original.
Please submit a chart for all original music (handwritten charts are accepted, but charts using a notation software are preferred.) You may sing or play to backing tracks.
B. Speaking Voice: Record your own speaking voice with a short narrative explaining why you wish to attend Musicians Institute.
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Musicians Institute offers many opportunities for scholarships in all of our programs. Please visit our Scholarship page for more information.
FINANCIAL AID
Please visit MI’s Financial Aid page for all the details on how you can qualify.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
International students make up nearly one-fourth of MI’s total student population, representing more than 50 countries throughout the world while creating a unique and diverse learning environment, full of endless opportunities in Hollywood and beyond. For more info, please visit the International Students page.
FACILITIES
- Full production sound stages and recording studios
- Fully equipped practice facilities and computer labs with the latest industry standard equipment
- Concert Hall access, with full audio/video recording capabilities
- Multiple performance and recording studios available for student practice
FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
Our faculty is comprised of dedicated, working professionals in the competitive Los Angeles music scene. These passionate professionals offer clear guidance and nurturing class environments, designed for students get the most out of their time at MI.
LAUREN PARDINI
CREDITS: MARVEL COMIC, GREYS ANATOMY, A$ASP FERG
SUZAN KOÇ
CREDITS: KELLY CLARKSON, PINK, BRANDY
IAN ROBBINS
CREDITS: THIS IS US, AMERICA’S GOT TALENT, BARRY MANILOW, BONNIE RAITT
DISCOVER YOUR PASSION FOR SONGWRITING AT MUSICIANS INSTITUTE
Enroll in Our Premier Songwriting Program Today
Are you an aspiring songwriter searching for a program that can help you turn your passion into a thriving career? Look no further than the Musicians Institute (MI), a renowned institution that offers a comprehensive songwriting program tailored to the needs of the modern music industry. By enrolling in our songwriting program, you can develop your unique voice, sharpen your skills, and learn from industry professionals who have successfully navigated the world of music.
Become a Part of a Legacy
At MI, you’ll join a community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for songwriting. Our esteemed alumni have gone on to make their mark in the music industry, securing opportunities in various fields such as recording, production, and even writing for TV, film, and commercials. As a student at one of the top songwriting colleges, you can confidently follow in their footsteps and make your own impact on the music scene.
Learn from Industry Experts
Our faculty at MI consists of accomplished songwriters, producers, and industry professionals with a wealth of experience and knowledge to share. They provide personalized guidance and mentorship, helping you hone your craft and develop your signature style. Our songwriting program covers essential topics such as lyric writing, melody creation, recording techniques, and production, ensuring that you graduate with a well-rounded skill set.
Diverse Career Opportunities
A degree in songwriting from MI opens up an array of career paths for you to explore. Whether you want to write and produce your own music, compose for other artists, or venture into the realms of TV, film, and commercial placements, our songwriting program equips you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed. With a strong foundation built at MI, the opportunities in the music and entertainment industry are limitless.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Resources
At MI, we understand the importance of hands-on experience in the learning process. Our state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including cutting-edge recording studios and production labs, allow students to gain practical knowledge and experience in the art of songwriting. By working with the latest tools and technology, you’ll be better prepared for a successful career in the ever-evolving music industry.
Collaboration and Networking Opportunities
One of the key factors in building a successful career in the music industry is establishing a strong professional network. At MI, we foster a collaborative environment where students can work together on projects, share ideas, and learn from each other’s experiences. Additionally, our songwriting program often hosts industry events, masterclasses, and workshops, providing invaluable networking opportunities for our students to connect with established professionals in the field.
Showcase Your Talent with a Professional Demo
Upon graduating from our Bachelor of Music (BM) program, you’ll have the opportunity to create a professional-quality demo, complete with a recorded mix, mastered tracks, and liner notes. This demo serves as a powerful tool to showcase your talent and kickstart your career as a professional songwriter.
Invest in Your Future
By choosing to enroll in MI’s songwriting program, you are making a strategic investment in your future. Our comprehensive curriculum, expert faculty, and real-world learning experiences provide the perfect foundation for a successful career in the music industry. Don’t miss the opportunity to develop your skills and unleash your creativity with one of the best songwriting degrees available.
Are you ready to embark on a fulfilling and rewarding journey as a professional songwriter? Enroll in the Musicians Institute’s songwriting program today and take the first step towards realizing your dreams in the world of music.
STUDENT CONSUMER DISCLOSURES
BACHELOR PROGRAMS
Bachelor of Music in Songwriting and Production
CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS
Certificate in Songwriting