Creative Songwriting for Beginners including Basic Music Theory concepts

From 54 C$ /h

I offer tailored lesson plans based on your specific goals, whether you're starting from scratch with music theory, aiming to write songs, or looking to enhance your songwriting skills. Each 45-minute lesson is customized to cover essential music theory concepts (whether you are preparing for a grade), sheet reading (if required), and the key elements of great songs (incl. chord progressions, arrangement, lyrics). As an experienced Music Production specialist proficient in Logic Pro X, I can support beginners and provide valuable production tips as well.

Extra information

Bring your laptop and any instruments you play, a pen and a notepad.

Location

Online from United Kingdom

Age

Children (7-12 years old)

Teenagers (13-17 years old)

Adults (18-64 years old)

Seniors (65+ years old)

Student level

Beginner

Duration

30 minutes

45 minutes

The class is taught in

English

Skills

Music theory

Song writing

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -04:00)

New York

Online via webcam

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

00-04

04-08

08-12

12-16

16-20

20-24

Lou-Indigo

4.87

(87)

The course that I propose is BILINGUAL FRENCH / ENGLISH, as well as 2 BOOKS.

Age and musical taste are not restrictive when in the program, you can with qualitative daily work (not quantitative) quickly observe your progress.

Here the pleasure of playing music is put forward.

The kind of music you love most will be the focus of the course, their codes and secrets will be the focus of our study, that's what I want to share with you.

We can do technical lessons and simply learn together how to play one or more songs of your choice or mine, enrich your game with this approach and your repertoire!

(For example, We can re-arrange the pieces and make them more original by approaching the system (CAGED), and enriching their chords, resulting in new positions, new techniques and new sounds, using arpeggio techniques rather than strumming for 4-chord pieces, voicing and fingerstyle techniques, in short, expanding the instrument's playing fields and playing skills to keep progressing in your game and improve your rehearsals ...)

If you make a request, this program is obviously accompanied by the pleasure of learning more in theory and being able to directly apply new knowledge on its instrument and identify its common or rare use in the pieces discussed in class.

In this case, the theory is translated to be accessible to anyone, both for those who are connoisseurs and for those who discover everything from absolute zero.
The exercises, songs, and theoretical explanations offered throughout the program are organized in an order of progressive difficulty.

I wrote and produced 2 books of my method to learn the guitar and the music, that I sell to accompany my course and your apprenticeship in the best conditions and so that you can continue the course even at home and to review etc ... .
There is ONE BOOK OF COURSES containing all the theoretical and practical program of the year, as well as a BOOK OF EXERCISE on the ranges and the modes that you can obtain directly.

You can find here an indicative list of objectives that I propose in my theoretical program, which can of course adapt to your request.

The general theoretical objectives of the course:

--- Tuning / tuning and knowing his guitar:
* Standard Tuning
* Drop Tuning
* Open Tuning
* Adjust the optimal tension of the strings
* Adjust the shaft axis
* Adjust the action of the strings
* Choose the strings adapted to the style of play / tuning
* Change his strings

-Know his chords:
* Triads: Fundamental State & Inversions
* Tetrads: Fundamental State & Inversions
* The chord progressions of the Range
* Arpeggio techniques (tapping, sweep, 1/2/4 fing.shape, etc ...)

--- Know his scales and his modes

* The Mode of the Major scale
* 3 Modes of the Minor scale: Natural / Melodic / Harmonic
* Modes of the Pentatonic range: 5 positions
* Modes of the Blues range: 5 positions
Etc ...

--- Technique to the Pick / Plectrum / Tab / Pick (Electric Guitar):
* Alternate Picking
* Fast Picking / Tremolo Picking
* Hybrid Picking
* Palm Mute
* Natural Harmonics
* Pinch Harmonics
* Artificial Harmonics
* Shredding
* Tapping
* Sweep Picking
* Legato Picking

--- Strumming / Hand Picking (Acoustic Guitar)
* "SnareDrum" percussion on the guitar
* Arpeggios pinched with 4 fingers + thumb
* Rasgueado (Flamenco Technique)
* Generic Strumming
* Fingerstyle Picking
* Two-finger picking + Legato for fast melodies (eg a solo)

-Play the metronome
* exercises on click
* practice on song riffs

-Learn his favorite songs
* without thinking about the difficulty, nothing is impossible with the right methodology

-Improvise
* choose ranges and positions
* to place oneself rhythmically, to finish on the judicious notes

-Theory of Harmony
* Understand harmonization and its practice

-Theory on the Melody

-Theory of Rhythm

Natia

4.87

(87)

Hello!

I’m Natia, a lifelong music enthusiast with a deep passion for sharing the transformative power of music. My journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance from Tbilisi State Conservatoire, followed by a Master’s degree from Zurich University of the Arts. Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of nurturing budding musicians, having started teaching when I was just 16 years old.

My teaching style is dynamic and tailored to your unique goals. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of Classical music, the charm of Jazz, or the rhythm of Pop, I’ll guide you every step of the way. Together, we’ll unlock your potential and transform your love for music into a lifelong skill.

No matter your level of experience, all you need is motivation, determination, and a little time to practice—I’ll take care of the rest!

Let’s make music together and bring your passion to life. 🎵

Giorgia

4.87

(87)

I teach for all levels, from children starting from zero to students who want to prepare certifications at the Conservatories, passing through amateurs or simply curious of any age.

I firmly believe in the importance of knowing how to read music and this is exactly what I teach first, obviously adapting the method to the age of my students: knowing how to read music is knowing one more language, which, if learned well, won’t ever be forgotten (like riding a bicycle!) and it is an invaluable wealth. Starting from that point I teach the position of the hand, the arm and the whole body at the piano, the fundamentals of the piano technique (giving great importance to the percussive movement of the finger and the distribution of weight), the understanding of musical language, the expression of the personality through the keyboard, the search for touch and knowledge of piano repertoire.

Jeremy

4.87

(87)

Hi, my name is Jeremy and I've played music for 19 years, having performed over 200 concerts and composed with a wide variety of groups and ensembles across England and Belgium in many genres (Funk, R&B, Soul, Jazz, Rock, Alternative, Punk and more). I have completed 3 years of intensive bass study at the Royal Conservatory of Brussels and am currently playing bass plus backing-vocals and song arrangement for Kids of the Elephant and Arrubio.

In these lessons, I will help you reach your goals while having fun in the process, keeping the lessons structured and tailored to your personal needs. I have 5 years of experience helping students improve as well as specialist knowledge in a multitude of styles. Some examples of what you might learn include:

- Correct hand positioning & posture for best performance and faster learning.
- Learning your favorite songs quickly and easily.
- Breaking down rhythms & dynamics
- Understanding the role of bass playing in a band.
- Understanding what makes a good bassline and composing your own.
- Essential music theory for bass & more advanced techniques (eg: melodic techniques, rhythmic, slap bass, etc)
- How to improvise, jam and play with other musicians.

Appropriate homework/exercises and recordings are provided during lessons. I also like to give advice and direction for people with musical aspirations. I'm also an empathetic person that loves teaching, so don't hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions.

Ana

4.87

(87)

One very supportive piano teacher whose main goal is to make you love music and piano playing, and enjoy your time at the instrument!! :)
I am an graduated pianist from Croatia getting my second diploma at Liszt Ferenc Academy in Budapest. I am here to help you learn piano or improve your piano skills. I am teaching also any genre apart from classical music, on any level. I have grand piano at my apartment, but I am also open to come at your home or teach you online. I am looking forward to help you! :)

Martin

4.87

(87)

In my class you learn how to play the guitar either finger style or with a pick (plectrum).
First, you learn the basics, if this is what you need. Then you learn about styles and ways of playing the guitar.
Consequently, you learn how to develop your own style in music and find ways of making yourself and others happy with the means of your guitar!

You also learn how purchase the right guitar and how to set it up for you to be comfortable with.

You save your money on a luthier's shop every month.

You learn the smartest fingerings for any chord changes and scales!

You get to learn the theory in detail so that you fully understand what you play.

You get best deals on guitars from local music stores.

You get to learn how to sightread music and more!

See you soon!
Martin

Steve

4.87

(87)

The theory of everything tends to be really scary and music theory can be too. I am very keen to make music theory easy for everyone. For some people there is only one way to tackle the unmentionable but I believe there are many different approaches and one of them will click with you. It is simply finding out what is best for each person. Once we find the key we can unlock the problems that have puzzled you for ages.

Music theory needs to be more than a requirement, it needs to be the way to really appreciate the music you are playing. Certain aspects can also lead to additional practical skills such as improvisation which can be very useful as well as very enjoyable.

Whether you want to understand a particular aspect of music theory or If you struggle with music theory in general, then this is the class for you - why not give it a try?

David

4.87

(87)

I am a Spanish pianist and composer (MMus graduate from Codarts Rotterdam in both directions) with many years of teaching experience, and also very active in performing in various contexts.

I give private piano lessons for all levels and styles (classical, jazz, Latin, new age, pop...), as well as music theory, composition and improvisation lessons. My lessons are distinguished by their dynamics, practical approach and adaptation to the needs and interests of the student.

The lessons (live or online) take place in my studio next to the Maastunnel, where I have a premium stage piano and a top-quality webcam setup.

I speak Dutch at an intermediate level, which is improving every day.

Andrea

4.87

(87)

Hello! I've been teaching nonstop for over 10 years, and I'd love to tell you what a class with me offers:

100% personalized approach: The first step is to define your goals. Learning for pleasure? Preparing for entrance exams? Or taking the professional leap? I'll adapt the methodology, curriculum, and even the repertoire to your goals.

Dynamic environment (without losing rigor): Relaxed but demanding classes, where practical methods (and my irremediable sense of humor) prevail.

Hearing + Musicality + Analysis: We'll work on listening, understanding, and analyzing your musical references. The goal: for you to make artistic decisions with confidence and feel music as your own.

No stylistic biases: For me, all music is valid. We'll explore everything from classical to electronic, using each style to work on key aspects: melody, harmony, production... We'll even explore genres you're unfamiliar with together!

Important! I balance classes with concerts and projects. Although you're my priority, I appreciate the occasional flexibility to reschedule (only when strictly necessary).

If you like this approach, write to me! Learning music is an exciting journey, and I'd love to be your guide.

Brent

4.87

(87)

Do you have trouble reading music? Do you love listening to music, but don't understand time signatures, keys or chords? Music theory often sounds abstract, but with the right explanation and concrete examples it suddenly becomes a lot more logical, and even fun :)

For whom?
- Beginner or advanced musicians who want to better understand what they are doing.
- Students preparing for music theory exams (e.g. music school, entrance exams).
- Independent artists/producers who want to deepen their musical knowledge.
- Anyone who is curious about the language behind music.

What can you expect?
- Clear explanation, at your own pace.
- Theory made immediately applicable with examples on the piano.
- Extra attention to insight instead of learning dry rules by heart.
- Tutoring fully tailored to your level and goal (classical, pop, songwriting, production, ...).

About me
I obtained a Grade 8 diploma in Music Theory and also a Grade 8 Piano from the Royal Schools of Music. In addition, I hold a diploma in Audio Engineering from Hofa College. I am active as a music artist and producer myself. Thanks to this combination of classical training and practical experience, I know how important it is to make theory understandable, concrete, and musical. I use my own piano during lessons to clarify everything visually and audibly.

Possible topics:
- Learn to read music.
- Scales, chords & harmony.
- Form and analysis (classical, jazz or pop).
- Rhythm, time signatures & tempo.
- Music theory for producers/songwriters.
- Songwriting.
- Preparation for exams or entrance tests.

Practical
- 1-on-1 lessons, online or live (if you don't live too far away).
- I provide materials, or we work with what you need.
- No prior knowledge required. Lessons adapted to your level.

🎶 Feel free to send me a message with your questions or goals. We'll see how I can best help you.

Lucy

4.87

(87)

For artists, songwriters, and creatives ready to shape their vision.

Are you working on your own songs and feeling stuck?
Do you have a head full of ideas but struggle to bring them together into one clear artistic story?
Or maybe you’ve already created something you're proud of, but you want to take it further — deeper, bolder, more you.

I'm here to help you connect the dots.

As a singer, songwriter, producer and creative director working on my own debut album, I know how overwhelming the creative process can feel. There’s so much more to being an artist than just making music. Your sound, your visuals, your story, your live performance — it’s all connected. That’s where I come in.

In our sessions, we can explore whatever part of your creative world needs support:

🎵 Songwriting – melody, lyrics, structure, harmony
🎧 Production Direction – from early sketches to refined ideas
🌙 Artistic Identity – visual storytelling, aesthetics, branding
🎤 Performance & Presence – connecting with your audience
💡 Creative Strategy – organizing ideas and unlocking new ones
🌀 Intuitive Guidance – sometimes you just need a sounding board

You don’t have to do this alone.

Whether you're a beginner or a more advanced artist, we’ll work with what’s already inside you — your instincts, your taste, your questions. Sessions are fully personalized and can be a one-time deep dive or part of a longer creative journey together.

Giuseppe

4.87

(87)

Classical music has evolved over more than a thousand years into a rich and complex art — one that requires not only passion, but also trained listening and understanding.

In these personalised one‐on‐one lessons, you will develop your ear through:

- Ear training based on integrated solfège and musical harmony

- Essential music theory

- Writing exercises and dictations, with clear guidance on techniques to master them

- Harmonic analysis of your repertoire and other universal or personally relevant pieces

These foundations will help you:

- Grasp the function of musical elements

- Gain a clearer and fuller understanding of music

- Improve your playing and musical memory

- Improve musical reading

- Express music with clarity and confidence

Whether you are:

- An amateur with an intermediate or high level

Or

- A musician aiming to go professional

...these lessons will help you connect more deeply with music, perform with greater accuracy, and enjoy it more than ever.

According to your musical level, I will guide you through short and basic daily exercises using a clear step‐by‐step method:

- Each exercise lasts from 5 to 15 minutes

- Essential to practise regularly for maximum efficiency

- Not overly difficult, but requires a bit of perseverance (just 10 minutes a day) to obtain the best results

📍 Available online and in‐person in Paris (preferable). But a mix of both is also possible.
🎯 Contact me today to book your first lesson and start your personalised programme.

Those who reach a high level of harmony will be able to unlock the next level: Musical form. Analysis tools for advanced students.

Enrico

4.87

(87)

My lessons are friendly, relaxed and interactive. We start from the music you enjoy and build your skills step by step.
In class we work on songs, chords, rhythm, technique and improvisation, always in a practical and musical way. Lessons are adapted to your level and goals, whether you are a beginner or already have some experience.
My goal is simple: help you understand the piano, enjoy music and feel confident playing.
Feel free to send me a message and tell me what music you love!

Sarasvati

4.87

(87)

Hello and nice to meet you! My name is Sara ~

My experience with guitar started with classical guitar when I was 6 years old and moving on to playing electric guitar at age 14.
Being immersed in playing primarily blues and jazz music.

I have taught students who not only do music as a hobby, but also students with serious career plans in music. I am open to various styles of playing guitar (jazz, blues, fingerstyle, funk, free improvisation and other popular genres) to all levels.

My approach is heavily focused on individual student's goals and needs: If you are just starting to play the instrument, for instance, we will focus on learning the basic technique through simple and easy songs.
If you are intermediate or advanced player already, we will focus on refining your already existing knowledge and find improvements to work on. Or, we can focus on specific themes, for instance improvisation, transcribing, technique and so on.

I also enjoy music theory very much and as I too struggled with grasping the concept when I was younger I am now more than happy to be able to present the world of music theory to anyone who is interested.
We can begin with the basics that can help you improve on your instrument or we can dive deeper into more advanced fields of jazz theory.
Whether you would like to learn music theory for practicality or you have an exam soon and would like to revise/learn more, I am more than happy to help you out on your music theory journey.

Marta

4.87

(87)

In this course, you will learn to play the violin or viola in an enjoyable, practical way tailored 100% to your personal goals and learning style. Whether you are picking up an instrument for the very first time or looking to refine your technique and expand your repertoire, every lesson is designed so you can enjoy making music from day one.