BIMM Artist Development Diploma in Modern Music – Songwriting

Course Overview
This course is equivalent to 2 ‘A’ levels.This course is all about ‘getting out there’, being seen and heard and gaining the confidence of a professional song writer.

Course Contents

• Composition

Writing your own material with basic music theory to help in your
understanding of the process. Breaking down the ‘raw materials' that come together to make a great song, in order to develop the tools for their own creativity.

• Singing

Vocal technique and styles development will be studied in this unit. Focus is on the importance of vocal arranging and singing.

• Performance Preparation

Planning for key performances at local and national level. Rehearsal technique, promotion, marketing, leadership, venues and promoters, tour management, stage management and budgeting are all studied.

• Music Theory and Keyboard Skills

A comprehensive look at music theory and the practical application of theoretical concepts, essential for writing, arranging and understanding the science behind the song. Keyboard skills are a central part of this unit.

• Live Performance Workshop

Making the songs studied in Pre - Production work in a live setting. Learning to communicate ideas with other musicians, with the focus on a tight, well arranged and professional performance.

• Pre - Production

This lecture encourages the preparation of songs to the standard of a professional band/artist. Parts, arrangement, tone and performance will all be analysed, with the emphasis on simplicity being taken to a very high standard. Attention to detail is paramount.

• Perception and Ear Training

Sharpening your ear. How to learn from listening to professional
recordings. Understanding and appreciating what makes music great. How to break down a record into its fundamental parts.

• Musical Arranging

An in-depth study of song structure, forms, instrumentation layers,
dynamics and production, to show the importance of having clear,
impacting arrangements that engage the listener.

• Music Industry

Students will be taken through all aspects of the music industry, including record and publishing deals, management, music synchronisation, legal issues, copyright, music teaching, live music and business planning.

• Music in Context

A history of classic artists placed in their social, historical and political context. Artists studied include Elvis Presley, Nina Simone, Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Aretha Franklin, Bob Marley, Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield, David Bowie, Sex Pistols, Led Zeppelin, Public Enemy, Nirvana and Radiohead.