Semester I

In the first semester, students build a strong foundation in the following modules:

• Songwriting & Music Production (Fundamentals)

  Class	Title	Description
  1.1	Entering Flow State	• Navigate a DAW • Set up a session for recording audio and MIDI • Apply basic recording and editing techniques • Learn to use essential effects (EQ, reverb, compression) • Learn how to work with samples
  1.2	Basic DAW Skills & Demo Creation	• Navigate a DAW • Set up a session for recording audio and MIDI • Apply basic recording and editing techniques • Learn to use essential effects (EQ, reverb, compression) • Learn how to work with samples
  1.3	Harmony	• Study diatonic and non-diatonic harmony • Explore borrowed chords, modal interchange, and experimental harmonic approaches • Learn how harmony supports storytelling and mood in songwriting • Explore the connection between harmonic choices and Artist Identity
  1.4	Groove I – Velocity, Quantization & Movement	• Learn the foundational elements of groove and rhythm • Explore the role of quantisation in shaping timing and feel • Use velocity shaping to add expression and groove • Create engaging drum and bass patterns that make listeners want to move • Experiment with balancing precision and human feel in your rhythms
  1.5	Melodic Hooks & Phrasing	• Craft memorable melodic hooks using rhythm, contour, and phrasing • Experiment with unexpected rhymes and lyric patterns • Explore how odd phrasing and entry points can create tension and release
  1.6	Recording Vocals & Instruments	• Learn basic recording techniques for self-production • Explore harmony and backing vocal layering to enrich vocal arrangements • Apply basic vocal production tools to support the emotional delivery of a song
  1.7	Theming an Emotional Narrative	• Explore plot-driven lyric writing and song-level storytelling • Use emotional songwriting techniques to connect with listeners • Discover how generate dopamine and oxytocin in listeners • Prepare for fast and effective songwriting workflows
  1.8	Speed	• Learn methods to write songs fast • Practice freewriting and rapid composition • Develop trust in instinctive writing • Complete a song in a timed session (3 hours or less)
  1.9	Harmonic & Lyrical Wordplay	• Develop fresh and original metaphors for songwriting • Avoid clichés and predictable lyrical choices • Explore how harmonic variation can enhance lyrical meaning • Combine musical and lyrical wordplay to create memorable moments • Study examples of songs that successfully balance both
  1.10	Arrangement & Energy	Explore vertical (texture-based) vs. horizontal (form-based) arrangement techniques • Learn standard and alternative song structures • Use contrast and prismatic repetition to create dynamic song arrangements
  1.11	Beat Storytelling & Groove Variation	• Learn beat-driven storytelling techniques • Use groove variation to control song energy and narrative • Explore common velocity curves for dynamic shifts • Develop arrangement techniques to avoid repetitive grooves
  1.12	Writing for Dance & Movement	• Use the Dance Hijack Method to compose music that interacts with movement • Explore how rhythm can guide physical and emotional movement • Learn to compose music with dancers or visual performers in mind
  1.13	Create Original Song Worlds	• Use personification and visual storytelling to enrich songs • Develop a unique sonic and visual identity • Learn techniques to help songs evoke vivid imagery and emotion • Explore techniques for creating authentic and original work • Break out of common genre traps and clichés • Discover and define what makes you unique as an artist
  1.14	Re-Write like a Mix-Engineer	• Understand the principles of arranging song elements by frequency • Listen back to past recordings with a critical but constructive mindset • Learn how to adapt parts to more complimentary frequencies • Practice revision techniques
  1.15	Semester 1 Demo Showcase Preparation	• Prepare for a virtual listening session with peers and instructors • Make final production tweaks to polish your song • Practice presenting your song confidently, including creative decisions and challenges • Reflect on how refined techniques have shaped your work
  1.16	Semester 1 Demo Showcase	• Present final versions of your songs in a peer and instructor showcase • Receive and give constructive feedback • Reflect on creative growth over the course

• Vocal & Performance Artistry I

  Class	Title	Description
  2.1	Building Your Voice	• Exploring Vocal Identity, and how technique supports artistry • Techniques for breath control to support vocal performance • Foundational vocal warm-ups and posture alignment • Developing a personalised daily vocal routine • Assignment of tailored vocal exercises for ongoing practice
  2.2	Ear Training & Vocal Awareness	• Understand the vital role of ear training in melodic writing and performance • Understand the listening skills needed to recognise intervals, melodies, and harmonic movement • Build awareness of vocal pitch, phrasing, and intonation • Explore how melody and vocal delivery are shaped by what you hear internally
  2.3	Mic Technique & Your Environment	• Explore essential mic techniques for both live and studio singing • Understand and control the proximity effect for emotional impact • Use pop filters effectively to reduce plosives • Identify and manage room reflections to improve recording quality • Develop awareness of how mic placement shapes vocal character
  2.4	Conversational Singing & Emotional Connection	• Explore techniques to make singing feel natural, conversational, and connected • Learn to blur the line between speech and singing for emotional authenticity • Practice low-pressure, in-class performances to build confidence • Develop expressive tools to bring out character and individuality in vocal delivery
  2.5	Recording Vocals	• Learn how to arrange and layer harmonies and backing vocals effectively • Explore the creative use of reverb, delay, and EQ to add space and depth to vocal recordings • Understand how to balance lead and backing vocals within a mix
  2.6	Cover Conversations – Creative Reinterpretation	• Explore how cover songs participate in ongoing cultural and musical conversations • Analyse and deconstruct well-known cover versions to understand creative choices • Discuss the balance between honouring the original and expressing personal artistry • Develop skills to reinterpret songs with originality and intention
  2.7	Understanding Hooks – Crafting Memorable Moments	• Explore the concept of a hook as a memorable and attention-grabbing element • Identify types of musical hooks: melodic, lyrical, rhythmic, instrumental, and production-based • Discover visual hooks: gestures, movements, visual motifs, framing, or editing techniques that stick in the viewer’s mind • Analyse how hooks work across both music and video to create memorable moments • Learn techniques to align musical and visual hooks for maximum value • Experiment with combining simple musical ideas with visual concepts to create cohesive hook-driven moments
  2.8	Storytelling Through Visuals	• Translate lyrics and emotions into visual storytelling • Study case examples of innovative, low-budget music videos • Develop a visual concept that complements your musical message
  2.9	Cover Conversations II – Recording & Filming Covers	• Learn how to record and film engaging cover performances • Blend live performance skills with basic video storytelling techniques • Analyse how visual choices support the interpretation of a cover song
  2.10	Performance for Camera	• Review initial performance videos and identify areas for improvement • Learn techniques for making video performances feel more natural and expressive • Apply feedback to refine performance, presence, and technical execution
  2.11	Semester I Video Art Project – Planning	• Finalise ideas for your performance video project • Outline a simple video script, shot list, and visual concept • Prepare for the recording of the final creative project
  2.12	Semester I Video Art Project – Execution	• Finalise ideas for your performance video project • Outline a simple video script, shot list, and visual concept • Prepare for the recording of the final creative project
  2.16	Semester I Showcase & Reflection	• Present final performance videos for class viewing • Engage in group discussion and feedback • Reflect on personal progress and identify next steps

• Music Culture & Artist Identity

  Class	Title	Description
  3.1	Personal Artistic Identity: First Draft	• Write your first artist mission statement • Identify key themes, messages, and values in your artistic work • Begin defining your unique voice and vision
  3.2	Visual & Sonic Aesthetic	• Learn how to align your visual and sonic identity • Create mood boards and sonic palettes • Develop a consistent brand image through visuals and sound • Explore how to communicate character through style and production
  3.3	Artist Narrative & Pitch	• Craft a concise and authentic artist story • Develop a short bio and elevator pitch • Explore the balance between authenticity and artistic character
  3.4	End-Semester Identity & Brand Review	• Review artist mission, bio, mood board, and pitch • Receive peer and instructor feedback • Reflect on brand evolution throughout the semester • Identify strengths and areas for further development

The emphasis is on generating creative material and developing fundamental skills.
Semester I culminates in each student presenting a “Foundations Showcase” project: demos of 11 original songs (from Songwriting class) performed live or played back for the group, accompanied by a short artist introduction (from Artist Identity class) as if pitching to an audience.

Students leave Semester I having written multiple songs, improved their vocal ability, learned to use a DAW, and widened their
understanding of music culture and their place in it.

Semester II

The second semester builds on the groundwork to take students to a professional level in content creation and career preparation with the following modules:

• Songwriting & Music Production II (EP Project)

  Class	Title	Description
  4.1	Selecting EP Tracks	• Review all demos created during Semester 1 • Select 7 tracks for further development • Learn how to make effective refining notes for arrangement, lyrics, and production
  4.2	Song Structure & Finalising Lyrics	• Rewrite and refine lyrics for emotional clarity and impact • Enhance song structure, section balance, and arrangement • Explore techniques for improving lyrical storytelling
  4.3	Vocal Production	• Learn proper microphone placement in the studio • Explore techniques for recording clean, professional vocals • Address common recording issues (plosives, sibilance, room reflections) • Apply vocal recording techniques in your home or studio setup • Learn to stack vocals effectively: background harmonies, doubles, and vocal layering • Expanding vocal processing tools • Experiment with vocal treatments • Craft “ear candy” moments to enhance the emotional and sonic depth of your tracks • Understand how to prepare vocals for mixing, balancing clarity with character
  4.4	Production Enhancement & Sound Design	• Design sonic textures using effects, synths, and unique sound elements • Experiment with production techniques to enrich soundscapes • Balance creativity with the emotional needs of the song
  4.5	Recording & Refining Instrumentals	• Record final instrumental parts using live and MIDI elements • Optimise DAW workflow for efficient production • Refine and finalise the instrumental foundation of each track
  4.6	Final Vocal Recordings	• Master studio vocal recording techniques • Apply self-recording practices for professional-sounding takes • Finalise all vocal performances for the EP
  4.7	Collaboration	• Learn effective collaboration mindsets and techniques • Develop skills for working with featured artists, co-writers, or producers • Practice integrating collaborative elements into your creative process
  4.8	Final Touches	• Conduct listening sessions to critically review all EP tracks • Apply final production, performance, and songwriting adjustments
  4.9	Making Final Song Choices	• Learn how to make confident final song selections • Explore strategies for deciding track order for an EP • Balance emotional connection, variety, and flow
  4.10	Mixing & Collaboration with an Engineer	• Prepare stems and multitracks for a mixing engineer • Understand the basics of the mixing process and terminology • Learn how to communicate effectively with a mix engineer
  4.11	Mix Reviews	• Learn how to give constructive notes to a mixer • Understand common mix revisions and how to communicate them effectively • Practice listening critically for mix decision
  4.12	EP Celebration	• Celebrate the completion of the creative process • Set an EP release date and prepare for distribution • Reflect on the project’s journey and impact

• Vocal Development & Performance II (Studio & Stage)

  Class	Title	Description
  5.1	Expanding Vocal Range & Agility	• Learn advanced breath control and vocal warm-up techniques • Apply exercises designed to improve vocal range, flexibility, and agility • Self-assess vocal development over time • Vocal health • Managing fatigue, strain, and injury prevention
  5.2	Layering & Harmonies – Recorded Vocals	• Learn advanced vocal layering techniques, including harmonies and doubles • Explore panning, vocal placement, and effects for studio recordings • Apply creative approaches to deepen vocal texture
  5.3	Live Performance Artistry I	• Learn foundational stage presence techniques • Explore body movement as a communication tool • Practice intentional movement to enhance storytelling • Connect emotionally with your audience
  5.4	Live Performance Artistry II	• Refine body movement and stage presence • Learn to connect emotionally with audiences • Use intentional movement to support storytelling • Practice performing with awareness of physical space • Tackling performance anxiety • Mental preparation for shows and recordings
  5.5	Song Performance Reviews	• Perform a song and receive live coaching • Identify strengths and improvement areas in performance • Practice applying vocal and stagecraft adjustments • Engage in peer observation and feedback
  5.6	Self-Recording for EP Production	• Prepare for independent vocal recording • Learn how to record multiple takes effectively • Practice comping vocals to create the best performance • Explore troubleshooting common self-recording challenges
  5.7	Advanced Performance for Camera	• Refine camera performance skills • Convey emotion naturally on screen • Learn to adapt stage performance techniques for video • Explore advanced framing, expression, and movement for camera
  5.8	Performance Critique & Improvement	• Receive individualised feedback on live or recorded performances • Refine vocal phrasing, delivery, and stage presence • Improve storytelling and audience engagement through performance
  5.13	Final Performance Preparation	• Finalise all details for the EP performance or video showcase • Refine transitions, visuals, and set structure • Prepare for a confident and cohesive presentation
  5.14	EP Live Arrangement & Final Tweaks	• Adapt one EP song into a live arrangement (acoustic, backing-track, or hybrid) • Make musical decisions suited for live performance (structure, dynamics, instrumentation) • Rehearse the song with attention to stage presence and delivery • Prepare for the final performance by applying feedback and refining the arrangement
  5.15	Final Showcase	• Present your completed EP or live performance set • Engage in class viewing and celebration • Receive final feedback from peers and instructors • Reflect on the creative journey and final outcome
  5.16	Reflection	• Reflect on personal growth throughout the course • Set future performance and creative goals • Recognise areas of strength and areas for improvement • Prepare for ongoing independent development

• Artist as a Brand & the Music Business

  Class	Title	Description
  6.1	Social Media, Promotion & Live Strategy	• Develop authentic social media strategies • Learn effective engagement techniques for building an audience through giving value • Explore approaches to booking gigs and live shows • Create a personal growth plan for online or live performance
  6.2	Psychology of Audience Connection + Ear Training Check-In	• Understand why audiences emotionally connect to certain songs and artists • Study personal storytelling and emotional themes in songwriting • Analyse how to create songs that resonate deeply with listeners • Ear Training test
  6.3	Royalties – Masters & Publishing	• Understand royalties rights for Masters and Publishing rights • Learn how and where to register songs for royalties • Learn how to present yourself professionally to the music industry
  6.4	Music Industry Essentials	• Gain an overview of today’s music industry • Learn about roles, revenue streams, and career paths • Analyse case studies of different artist journeys • Explore the essential components of an Electronic Press Kit (EPK)
  6.5	Release Strategies	• Explore the realities of record deals and indie careers • Learn release strategies: singles, EPs, and albums • Understand timelines, budgets, and distribution options • Compare DIY vs. label-supported release paths
  6.6	Career Roadmap & Final Brand Polish	• Define personal and professional goals for the next 12 months • Refine branding, artist statement, and visual identity • Prepare for presenting your brand to audiences or industry professionals
  6.7	Final Showcase & Reflection	• Present your creative brand, EPK, and personal goals • Receive final peer and instructor feedback • Reflect on artistic development and next steps

By the end of this semester, students will produce and release a final EP and be ready to take the next steps in their careers.
At the end of Semester 2, students complete their final showcase: releasing their EP and presenting at the online EP Launch Showcase. This final event, attended by peers, instructors, and guest industry people, functions like a virtual listening party. Students
play one or two of their best tracks, talk briefly about their artistic journey and branding (putting their personal branding practice into
action), and celebrate the completion of their projects. It’s both a showcase of their work and a networking opportunity. By this point, they have a small portfolio of songs, studio experience, and an actionable plan to continue momentum.

The program’s conclusion is really a beginning – graduates step away with a release in hand and a roadmap for navigating the
music industry as confident empowered independent artists.