What To Expect When You Work With A Songwriting Coach
by Debra Alexander When you set out to find and work with a songwriting coach, the obvious objective is to improve your music and lyrics. But there are many additional benefits, some of which would include the ability to: boost your creative output, determine your best songwriting workflow, learn about networking opportunities, notch new songwriting successes, and develop your understanding of which channels will get the kinds of songs you write to the audiences you desire. First and foremost, look for a coach you like and resonate with. A coach will likely offer an initial consultation to determine whether a working relationship with you will be a good fit. You may want to interview more than one coach. At the conclusion of the consultation, a coach should be able to offer a program of study that addresses your needs and your goals, give you an idea of what you should expect to achieve, and tell you how your achievements will be assessed over a specific period of time.
Community: Groups and Associations for Songwriters
For many of us, Songwriting is a solitary pursuit. Locked away in the basement with your guitar and your lyric sheets trying to weave together the perfect song. Never seeing the light of day, never getting outside of your own head! It doesn't have to be that way. There is a lot of ways for us songwriters to come into the light. Hang with like minded people. Get feedback on the songs we are working on, learn from one another, and perhaps most importantly feel you are not alone in this. Gosh, sounds like I'm describing a support group for a horrible disease! But the analogy is similar... being part of a community of songwriters is a great way to help you take your songs to the next level. Sometimes just the idea that you are going to play your precious song you've been slaving over is enough impetus to finally rework that second verse and eliminate the sketchy rhyme you've been neglecting.
Groups and Associations
Joining a songwriters group or association is a great way to connect with other songwriters. They foster a sense of community, and advocate for songwriters to governement and other organizations. They also often have many invaluable resources and learning programs