Songwriting Coaching - Lessons on Lyrics, Composition and Melody

From 53 £ /h

My songwriting coaching is based on my own experience, as well as the Essential Songwriting Course (ESC) which I have developed to cover the fundamental principles of songwriting. From crafting compelling narratives in Lyrics to refining compositional techniques in Composition, and mastering standout melodies in Melody, you’ll embark on a transformative journey. Thanks to understanding concepts such as prosody or knowing how to support your song’s mood with compositional elements, you’ll learn how to write strong and memorable songs. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned songwriter, this course will equip you with essential techniques to elevate your craft.

When coaching aspiring songwriters like yourself, I aim to bring out your unique style and personality by empowering you with songwriting tools that you choose to reach for based on your own preference and liking. I do not believe in 'shoulds' only in preferences. I'll share my views and experience and for the rest, the choice is yours ;)

P.S. The lessons will be given in English.

Extra information

If you're a guitar player, bring your own guitar.

Location

Use Ctrl + wheel to zoom!

At teacher's location :

Mauritsstraat, Hilversum, Netherlands

Online from Netherlands

About Me

Hi, I am Petra - a singer/songwriter, pianist, producer and a songwriting coach. I also work as a Student Advisor at Abbey Road Institute - a music production and sound engineering school.

Education

I started studying piano classical piano at the age of 8 (6 years) and I've been writing my own songs since the age of 15. later in life, I delved into studying jazz piano with a Belgian composer Hans Lamal (a former student of Chick Corea), and attended jazz courses in Belgium and London. As a part of my university studies (M.A. in British and American Studies), I took classes in creative writing and various philological disciplines (including British and American Literature, morphology, lexicology, stylistics...) which add to my understanding of the use of language.

Experience / Qualifications

I have given my workshops and the Essential Songwriting Course (ESC) at various locations, including Abbey Road Institute, Haarlem Conservatory, SAE, United Pop Amsterdam and Max Guitar (Den Haag). Subjects covered in the ESC and its workshops, as well as my experience as an artist and a songwriter, are the basis used in my individual coaching sessions.

Age

Teenagers (13-17 years old)

Adults (18-64 years old)

Seniors (65+ years old)

Student level

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Duration

60 minutes

90 minutes

The class is taught in

English

Slovak

Dutch

Skills

Song writing

Music composition

Music theory

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -04:00)

New York

At teacher's location and via webcam

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

00-04

04-08

08-12

12-16

16-20

20-24

Waldemar

5.0

(2)

Dear music and piano lover, welcome to my profile page!

My name is Waldemar and I am a classical piano teacher.
I teach young (from 8 years old) and old, individually or in groups.

I received my training from Fania Chapiro in Hilversum and later at the Amsterdam Conservatory with Danielle Dechenne.

Depending on your level, we will in principle cover all aspects of technique and interpretation. You can always make special requests known to me.
In addition, I think it is important to structure the lessons and focus on themes so that you really learn something.

In addition to being a piano teacher, I am also available as a composition, music theory or solfege teacher.

Would you like to take lessons with an experienced pianist? Contact me.

musical regards,
Waldemar

PS And my favorite composer? That's currently Franz Schubert ;-)

Natalia

5.0

(2)

Piano lessons with Natalia offers you the varied and impressive program. Are you ready to take on the challenge of learning to play the piano! Do you like piano? Do you want to improve the technique of your piano playing? Do not hesitate to contact me. The lessons take place at my home in Erpe-Mere (Burst).

As a professionally trained classical pianist you learn how to read / play notes, scales, arpeggio, chords, improvisation exercises and much more.

Are you looking for online piano lessons in this corona crisis?
Does piano seem to be more your thing? Canceling is always easy; you are not committed to anything. That is part of the philosophy of Piano Lessons with Natalia.
Online piano lessons (usually) mean that you take piano lessons through video lessons via Skype, Viber or Messenger. I prepared my lessons in advance and prepared them for you in a clear and structured way, so that you learn the piano step by step. to master.

Online piano lessons

At Online piano I also focus specifically on technique, learning notes, playing exercises and much more. For this I developed a teaching method based on years of experience with teaching fortepiano. So I am a piano teacher of online piano lessons that offers multiple lessons.

It is the combination of the varied program of theory and practice together, why Piano Lessons with Natalia say that “Everyone can learn to play the piano”. At Online Piano Lessons I make playing the piano accessible, easy and fun.

Persist
In this Corona crisis, force yourself to sit behind the piano every day. I do everything I can to make the lessons as fun and easy as possible. This way you can easily repeat the exercises and melody pieces with the help of my online piano lessons. You also learn to play a new practice tune in every lesson that you can play to your heart's content.
You will discover that the motivation and discipline to learn to play the piano well is much more important than your capacity and experience. To get really good you will have to help yourself through difficult exercises. Fortunately, at the Online Piano Lessons you are not just there, but I give you Live advice, tips and intensive effort in your handover assignments.

Alain

5.0

(2)

I am Alain, married and have two daughters and have lived in the Netherlands since 2017. Before this I lived in China for 15 years where I worked as a professional musician. I am originally from Mauritius where I also worked as a musician. I have years of experience teaching acoustic guitar and bass guitar to both children and adults.
Are you already advanced and do you want to improve yourself or have you never played and are you looking for someone who will teach you the basics first and then help you get better? Then you've come to the right place.
I can read music but prefer to play without sheet music to really feel the music and to express my own creativity in the music.

Hernan

5.0

(2)

The way I teach actually depends entirely on the student. The way I explain the concepts, plan and structure the lessons and approach each subject all depends on whether the student is a beginner, intermediate or advanced, and whether he or she has some experience on the subject.

Each student has different needs and different abilities. It's just a matter of getting to know the student, in order to identify both the weaknesses and strengths on which to work.

Stefano

5.0

(2)

Are you ready to discover the magic of one of the most beautiful instruments ever created? Look no further! The piano has transformed my life and I'm confident it will do the same for you.

With my guidance, I'll equip you with all the tools you need to approach this majestic and stunning instrument. I'll take you on a personal journey, step by step, showing you how to master the Piano in a way that suits your individual style. Whether it's Jazz, Classical, or Pop, you'll fall in love with playing the Piano!

But that's not all - I'm also thrilled to offer you the opportunity to explore:
- Music theory
- Songwriting and Composition skills

With my expert guidance, you'll develop a well-rounded musical education that will take your talent to new heights.

So why wait? Get in touch with me today and let's embark on this wonderful journey together!

Eyal

5.0

(2)

Eyal has taught hundreds of students over the past 15 years, both guitar and piano next to music theory and composition. Besides his formal music education (a bachelor's in composition, a teaching degree from the music academy in Jerusalem, and a master's in composition from Codarts, Rotterdam), Eyal has acquired experience in a wide range of various musical styles, including Rock, Blues, Jazz, classical music, electronic music, and contemporary music, on which he bases his rich approach which can be adjusted to every student separately.

Solos, chords, improvisations, heavy distortion or acoustic guitar, playing at a party or jumping on stages, reading notes, or playing by ear. Maybe you know exactly what you want, and maybe you are not sure. In Eyal's view, the job of the teacher is to help you find that out, and guide you through your process.

Johann Sebastian Bach or John Lennon? Sergei Rachmaninoff or Freddie Mercury? Regina Spektor? Nina Simone? Maybe Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart? Complex harmonies or simple melodies? Classical pieces or modern tunes? The only right answer is what you find interesting.

Samuel

5.0

(2)

Hello

I'm a professional bass player living in Amsterdam. I have a passion for teaching and passing on some of the knowledge that I have acquired during my studies at several schools and heard from the musicians I look up to. I've done my bachelor degree at The Royal Academy of Music in Denmark, and I finished my Masters at Conservatorium van Amsterdam in 2024.

I teach double bass, electric bass and composition.

Musically I try to be as open as I can. For me it doesn't matter if it's free jazz, traditional jazz, pop or metal as long as it feels good.

I'm a leader of my own group where we combine jazz and indie rock. we will release our debut album this fall.

I'm also a sideman in several groups.

As for composition I have experience with composing for regular jazz groups, big band, string quartet and irregular constellations such as my band with three guitars and three horns.

Some thoughts about teaching:

I believe that the most important thing when teaching is having a good relation to one another and generally just having a good time. If we don't enjoy the process we don't learn.
You should feel comfortable saying how you feel and what you want to learn/don't want to learn. With that transparency I will be able to customize the teaching and balance the curriculum so that I meet your needs while pushing you into unknown territory.

If you're reading this I'm happy that you took your time to read through it all, and hopefully we'll get to meet and talk about music!

Kinan

5.0

(2)

Arabic music, Turkish music and world music, also Makam, improvisation.
I can teach Saz, Baglama or any instrument in this family.
You will learn everything about orientel music.
If you want to be professional this is the right place to start.

Lucy

5.0

(2)

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.

Craig

5.0

(2)

With me, you'll play real music from your very first lesson, not endless drills. I hold a doctorate in composition and music theory and a master's in piano performance, so I don't just show you what to play, I explain why it works. You'll feel the difference: once you understand what you're doing, you practise faster and play with more conviction.

My lessons usually start with technique, then we get into your repertoire, classical, pop, jazz, or film music, whatever you're drawn to. If you're taking voice lessons, I'll accompany you live at the piano.

I teach everyone: from your very first note to conservatory level, from kids to adults picking it up for the first time. I taught at university level for years and now judge international music competitions so I also know exactly how to prepare you for Music exams and auditions because I know what the jury is listening for. I teach in English, having trained and performed across three continents for over 30 years and I bring all of that into every lesson.

Lets start working !

George

5.0

(2)

If you are interested in composition, music production, songwriting and performance but feel like you need some technical or creative motivation, this is the lesson for you. If you feel discouraged or overwhelmed by the technical aspects of a creative process, this is the lesson for you.

In these lessons, we will work on making the most of what we have through creative-problem solving and inspiration-hunting. You bring your ideas and we develop them together, have challenging conversations and explore alternative approaches to composition, production and songwriting to get you closer to your vision. We will also explore the many possibilities of working with a live band, ensemble or orchestra and how to encourage a healthy but focused work process.

Some more things covered in the process:

- Logic Pro X (mixing, producing, sampling, midi, audio recording)

- Composition (score writing / editing, notation software, orchestration / arrangement, music theory, composing for film / video)

- Songwriting (arranging, alternative score-writing, band communication, demo-making)

- Experimental production (eg. no-input mixing, prepared instruments, effect-pedals)
_________________________________________________________________

Do not let your ambition be hindered by limitations, but allow it to be inspired by them!

Elias

5.0

(2)

Guitar lessons with Elias (In person, Virtual or Hybrid) are tailored to your goals, experiences and musical interests. Whether you are a complete beginner, returning to the guitar, or are looking to develop your skills further, lessons are designed to be practical, enjoyable, and encouraging.

We can develop your technique, sight reading, chords/harmony, scales, repertoire, improvisation, ear training, music theory and performance skills.

I welcome students who want to develop serious ability and freedom on the instrument as well as students interested primarily in learning their favorite songs. Each lesson is adapted to your level and pace, with clear guidance and achievable goals to help you build confidence and make steady progress. My aim is to help you become a more confident, creative, and independent guitarist while, most importantly, enjoying the process of learning.

Rubén

5.0

(2)

Every student's musical journey is different, and your lessons should be too.

With more than 5 years of experience teaching piano to students of all levels (from complete beginners to advancing conservatory-track students and retired adults rediscovering music) lessons are built around your goals, pace and interests. Whether you're picking up the piano for the first time, preparing for conservatory entrance exams, or returning to the instrument after years away, each student finds a plan tailored to where they are and where they want to go.

The first lesson is about getting to know each other: understanding your current level, your goals, and what excites you musically, so a clear and realistic plan can be built from day one. From there, practice is kept structured and achievable; with concrete, doable goals between lessons, as well as different tools and materials provided along the way. Lessons can take place at my home or, if preferred, at your own address.

As a teacher, I try to stay flexible to what my students want to explore: I find pupils are often passionate about all kinds of genres, and while my own training is classical, I'm just as happy helping a student work on jazz standards and improvisation if that's what excites them, alongside more traditional repertoire.

References from former students available on request (already on other platforms)

Laurine

5.0

(2)

Hi there ! If you are looking for a versatile teacher, that can help you learn or improve on the oboe, or on its baroque cousin, you are at the right place.

The lessons will focus on your own need, according to your level. Beginners to very advanced players are welcome! From your basic technique to learning your favorite piece, with the guidance of musical theory along the way, you will find a friendly space to develop your knowledge, and most important, connect and have fun on the oboe :)

I can also help you with the reeds ; by showing you the general technique as well as all my little secrets... ;)

I am also specialised in the historically informed practice field, and I would be more than happy to share this part of my education with you.

Aleksandra

5.0

(2)

I help students and musicians deepen their theoretical knowledge, prepare for entrance exams (eg conservatory), and improve their theoretical skills.

My lessons are structured, clear, and tailored to the level and goals of a student – from basic to advanced concepts.
In the lessons we can work on: ear training, solfege, general music theory, harmony, harmony at the piano, musical analysis.