Tips on songwriting workshops with kids?

Posted: Thu Aug 28, 2008 5:24 am

Hi folks

Sorry if this is a bit OT, but I wanted to pick some brains. One of the things I do as a freelancer is songwriting workshops in schools and youth clubs. The idea is generally to go in with laptop, mics, guitar, keyboard etc, and help the kids to write and track a song, which is then mixed and given to them on CD. I am still a bit new to this, and have generally been hitherto working with other more experienced individuals in running the session. However I have learnt a lot since I started doing it, and my confidence has improved in leaps and bounds.

Recently an opportunity has come up for me to do such a workshop, but this time pretty much on my own. There will be about 15 kids, aged 10-11, with I guess pretty non-exceptional instrumental skills. The workshop will run over 3 days.

I wanted to build on my knowledge of how to run such workshops by seeking others’ experience. Anyone here have any experience of running such workshops? I’m interested in tips on anything from how to brainstorm lyrics and harmonies etc, through to how to maintain the group’s focus/confidence, prevent boredom and so on.

If you have any good advice, or can point me in the direction of any good resources, please pipe up!

Many thanks

Posted: Fri Aug 29, 2008 10:13 pm

If they're my kids - run!

(sorry, late / tired)

Cool

Posted: Sun Aug 31, 2008 8:51 am

I would say , Keep it interesting and have some fun
with it I think the results will be better than you think Get them to do it as a group . A team effort always pays off

GL

Bent you can have my kids too...lol

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