Summer Intensive: Learn How to Write a Song

Throughout human history, songs have been written to celebrate and commemorate important life events and experiences. Writing a song can be a powerful way to express our humanity and depth of feeling.

This weeklong course is open to songwriters and composers of all abilities and styles. It will explore key elements of songwriting, including:

• The importance of melody
• Harmony, chords and accompaniment
• Finding your artistic voice as a composer
• Performing your music and/or getting it performed
• Being available for the creative process

There will be opportunities throughout the course for participants to share and discuss their compositions, and the course will conclude with a showcase where participants will have the opportunity to perform or present their work to the group.

Video from tutor Salwan: https://youtube.com/shorts/1Zu3rHh-Z1k?feature=share 

About the Tutor

Salwan Cartwright-Shamoon is a classically trained singer, pianist and composer from Belfast. He received his undergraduate degree in music from Queen’s University and his master’s in vocal performance from the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. Salwan has extensive experience as a singer and has performed recitals throughout the UK.  As a composer, he has written and recorded over 20 works, including songs, choral music, piano and instrumental pieces.

As a teacher, Salwan has led over 15 courses that have explored the relationship between artistic expression and personal wellness. He enjoys working with musicians and artists of all abilities and supporting them in finding their deepest levels of expression.