Songwriting Class for Teens in Austin, Texas
Real Songs, Real Community, Real Growth
You have a teenager who sings in the car, makes up words while setting the table, knows every word to the newest hits, and… wants more.
And you’re looking for a place to help them explore that creativity.
Our Songwriting Class provides a weekly gathering of community, accountability, and a balance of structure and freedom. Students will learn how to write a wholly developed song and walk away with complete songs of their own. They’ll get guidance from an experienced songwriter and teacher, regular input from peers, and the opportunity to perform their new songs.
“Jessy is great and clearly passionate about music. She’s patient, knowledgeable, and very professional.”
-Emily
Take The Next Step As A Songwriter
The Songwriting Class is for 8-12th graders who want to find their musical voice through songwriting. Maybe they’ve tried writing songs, but haven’t had the structure or guidance they needed. Maybe they’ve completed some songs but don’t have an outlet or a community to share them with. This is the place for them!
What Students Get
Creative Community
Students will learn from, grow with, and encourage each other in a safe, positive environment. The class of six is small enough so that everyone can be heard, but big enough that students can benefit from different perspectives. Plus, friends that you can harmonize with? Yes, please!
Songwriting Routine
To improve as a songwriter, you gotta write more songs! Regular creative assignments, instruction, and check-ins all help make writing a habit. Students won’t just be instructed to write more, they'll learn how to write more.
Good In, Good Out
We’ll listen to, study, and break down great songs to discuss what makes a song effective. Through mindful listening, students will get the tools to enjoy music on a deeper level and articulate their own tastes, which is the first step to clarifying an artistic voice.
The Details
Dates: August 27th to December 17th
Class time: Weekly on Thursdays 6:15 - 7:15 PM, except we’ll skip November 26th.
Location: Jessy Eubanks Music’s home studio in South Austin (78745) There is a waiting area for parents and well-behaved (and watched over) siblings, though timely drop off/pick ups are also allowed.
Showcase: We’ll have an end of semester public showcase on Friday, December 11th, 7 PM at The Rosette so that students can perform their new songs for friends and family.
Pricing: A deposit of $80 will be due upon registering, and subsequent tuition installments of $160 will be due on the 1st of each of the four months the Songwriting Class is in session. (Total cost $720)
Tips For Success
Sharing Music
Students will be expected to play and sing original songs live in class. Students will need to be able (and willing!) to sing and play an instrument at the same time in somecapacity. We recognize that students may still be coordinating the skill of playing and singing, and that is okay! The class is also an opportunity to improve that coordination.
Instrument & Equipment Needs
The classroom is equipped with a piano, digital keyboard, and acoustic guitar; however, students writing for guitar are invited to bring their own. If writing for another instrument, please bring it to class.
Please bring a notebook and pencil for taking notes in class, participating in writing exercises, and for keeping track of ideas.
At home, students will need regular access to the instrument they are writing for and access to a simple voice memo app or recorder (no fancy recording gear required!)
Team player
This is a community-driven class, so students should expect to be attentive and give their thoughts to others! Being a team player includes respecting the intellectual property of everyone and providing kind or helpful feedback.
Take Ownership
Much like practicing an instrument or learning a language, the only way to improve at songwriting is to do it! Although classes are thoughtfully planned, there are no magical shortcuts. Students who want meaningful results can expect to spend regular time between classes working on their songwriting skills. Depending on the week, this may include listening attentively to music, quick theory assignments, workshopping lyrics, and, of course, working on original songs!
How To Get Started
Step 1
Step 2
Attend a casual get-to-know you to see if the course is a good fit. A scheduling email will be sent in response to your interest form submission. Here’s what to prepare and expect:
I’ll ask the student some basic questions to get an understanding of their musical background, goals, and interests.
Then I’ll invite the student to perform a piece of non-original music. This can be a cover of a song or an instrumental piece. Singing and playing is ideal, but not required.
We’ll discuss how your music can benefit from the course and go over any questions you might have.
Optionally, students may also perform or play a recording of an original song. Partial/unfinished songs are absolutely okay, but I’d love to hear a full song if one exists!
Step 3
If everyone agrees to move forward, we’ll get you enrolled! This includes signing the class contract, paying the deposit, and creating your account in the student portal, My Music Staff. And I’ll look forward to seeing you on the first day of class!
Let’s talk about writing songs!
FAQs
What instrument proficiencies are needed?
Since we’ll be playing and singing in class, students will be most comfortable with at least 1 year of experience on an instrument that can play chords (like piano, guitar, or ukulele).
Is it genre specific?
Nope! As long as there is music and lyrics, all styles and genres are welcome.
What do students need to bring?
At least a notebook and pencil. Students writing for guitar are welcome to bring their own, although an acoustic guitar will also be available. If you’re writing for something else (like ukulele) please bring that to class.
At home, students will need regular access to the instrument they are writing for. They’ll also need an easy way to record simple versions of their songs - this can be as simple as the voice memos app on a phone.
My child would be a great fit for this class, but they’re outside of the age range and/or the time doesn't work for our schedule.
Please still reach out! This is the first ever semester of the class, and we’re hoping to grow! Private lessons could be a great solution in the meantime.
Will there be a class in the spring?
Yes! Details will be announced as we get closer.
When does registration close?
August 26th, or sooner if all 6 spots are filled.
What if we have to miss a week?
Assignments and a brief summary will be emailed after each class so that students can stay on track. For planned absences, please provide as much notice as possible. Because tuition is based on enrollment, not attendance, refunds and/or prorated payments are not available in case of absences.
What payment methods are accepted?
Zelle, cash, check, and online via My Music Staff (The student portal).