Songwriting Lessons - crafting a song (Collaboration also possible)

From 41.05 £ /h

I can help you craft a song.
If you’re a curious beginner, a seasoned artist or simply looking to write a unique song - get in touch!

'making music that makes the world a better place' indiebandblog

My name is Nigel and I’ve been writing, performing, and recording songs for 30 years, in many different genres.
If you’re a beginner to songwriting, a seasoned artist or simply looking to write a unique song for that special person, I can help and enable you to discover, write and play the songs that are inside you. It’s a fun and extremely rewarding journey!
I can offer online (during Covid) songwriting tutorials :
● A package of six online* sessions - from the germ of an idea to a finished song
● Individual requirements/one-off session - assistance with writer’s block, collaboration, chords, etc

* I also offer a service as a song collaborator, unpaid - based on songwriting credits *
- ask for details!

Lessons are via Skype/Zoom* (I am based in Mechelen)
In English (my native tongue) or Dutch
*until post-Corona

Extra information

Lessons via Zoom (during Covid regulations) and bring a favorite instrument, guitar, keyboard, ukulele?

Location

Online from Belgium

About Me

My name is Nigel and I'm an English guy living in Belgium.

I've been writing and performing songs for 30 years, in a variety of bands/line-ups and in varying genres, the the UK and Belgium.
Music and writing is my life’s passion and I am fascinated by the craft of songwriting. As well as my experience as a musician, singer and songwriter, I have taught guitar (one-on-one), organised a monthly Songwriters Circle and ran two successful Open Mics. From these I learned a lot about encouraging new talent, how other people approach songwriting and also the art of performance - essential tools for any aspiring songwriter.
In Belgium I’ve fronted several bands and worked as a lyricist for Warner Bros Music, a valuable insight into collaborating with other people and arranging songs. I am still writing and performing in Belgium and began organising a monthly Open Mic at De Floeren Aap in Mechelen (currently postponed due to Covid);
I have a thorough knowledge of chords, song structures and playing guitar, so if you require any assistance with learning guitar, I can help you with that also.
My songs have been played on BBC Radio 6, BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio Lancashire, Amazing Radio, Unpeeled.net, Folk Radio UK, Dandelion Radio, Beyond Radio, Studio Brussels, Radio Centraal and Sky TV.

'indie-folk at its best...' Folk Radio UK
'Blissfully wonderful music' Beehive Candy

Education

BSc (Hons) Environmental Studies, University of Hertfordshire
Lancaster Royal Grammar School
Currently following a one year course with The Songwriting Academy, London

Experience / Qualifications

Thirty years writing, performing and recording my own songs, teaching guitar, organising Open Mics and Songwriters Circles.
Signed to Nub Music and songs published by Sentric Music.
Collaborating with other artists, including for Warners Belgium.

Age

Teenagers (13-17 years old)

Adults (18-64 years old)

Seniors (65+ years old)

Student level

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Duration

60 minutes

The class is taught in

English

Dutch

Skills

Guitar

Acoustic

Folk

Pop

Song writing

Music composition

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -05:00)

New York

Online via webcam

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

00-04

04-08

08-12

12-16

16-20

20-24

Sergio

5.0

(6)

Online classes of classical, electric or acoustic guitar, bass, Venezuelan cuatro, music theory, rhythmic or harmony. Beginner-intermediate-advanced. (Skype-Zoom-Meet). 12 years of musical experience.

Book your schedule now!

Do you have a musical instrument at home and do you always wanted to learn to play it?
Are you not sure where to start?

I can help you, I am Sergio and I have 12 years of experience in the musical area. I am a student of music education at the (UPEL) Universidad Pedagógica Experimental Libertador Miranda José Manuel Siso Martínez and the Conservatory Lino Gallardo as a classical guitar interpreter. Furthermore, I also have experience teaching online classes via Zoom, Skype or Google Meet. If you think your level is beginner, intermediate or advanced, I can help you in your musical development. More than learning to play songs, musical art is a discipline and its own language that helps interdisciplinary in other areas of learning.

° Classes:
-Classic/Acoustic guitar.
-Electric guitar.
-Bass.
-Piano/Keyboard.
-Music theory.
-Solfeggio.
-Rhythmic and movement.
-Harmony.
-Venezuelan cuatro.

Camille

5.0

(6)

Folk or classical acoustic guitar.

The teaching philosophy is adapted to the level of each individual, according to the pace of work and motivation.

For example, for beginners: Technique of the plectrum or fingers, coordination and correction of the right and left hand. Learning basic chords, simple themes, simple rhythms, reading tablatures (...).

For intermediaries: development of rhythm, construction of chords, writing of tablatures, basic notions of harmony (...).

Depending on your goals, you can learn, if you wish, to play 60 to 80% of current music from the first lessons, which often use the same chords and the same techniques. The objectives take into consideration the following points:

-Study of various playing techniques, chords, harmony, music of your choice, rhythm, with reading of tablature, teaching structured around the repertoire you like, technique of developing the musical ear
- Discovery of the neck, notes and basic positions of open chords
- Left / right hand coordination and rhythm exercises for the right hand
- Learning of different pieces of your choice
- Left hand control exercises, speed and precision
- Learning arpeggios
- Work around muscle memory
- Learning improvisation, musical play with others
- Ear training: use your ears to find chords, melodies, sounds and techniques used
-Spend a pleasant moment of exchange, without unnecessary institutional pressure, while obtaining concrete results
-Understand and discover the many facets of an exciting and user-friendly instrument
- Benefit from personalized advice on your posture and certain pitfalls to avoid when starting alone
-Adjust and clarify your self-taught knowledge
- Learn tablatures / tabs & in English.

Note :
- Possibility to use the guitar available on site, during the test phase.
- As our teacher is also a singing teacher, it is possible to combine the two disciplines: guitar + vocal instrument, and to work on synchronization, style and accuracy.
- Possibility of offering this course (birthday, party, Christmas, event ...) to the person of your choice.

THE TEACHER :
Trained in Grande Ecole post-preparatory classes & Ivy League university in the United States, our teacher has specialized and has worked for more than 15 years, in Europe and North America, in the field, in renowned international public and private establishments, with careful pedagogy and methodology as the watchwords.

PLACES :
- Locations: Geneva-Lausanne-Friborg-Neuchâtel-Montreux-Bâle-Sion-Sierre-Morges-Bienne. But currently, only by videoconference in accordance with national recommendations on Covid. These sessions also seem to be perfectly unanimous since they have the advantages of direct (example: quality of the interaction), without its disadvantages (ex: loss of travel time), with additional advantages (ex: of notes on the chat, which can be reread afterwards). In this context, these videoconference sessions for which you have requested me, seem to arouse a certain enthusiasm (and a certain enthusiasm). At your request, I therefore continue to offer them.

Frederic

5.0

(6)

A graduate of the Jazz and Classical Conservatory, teaches guitar and bass.

Working method (10 years of experience)

All styles combined (classical, folk, rock, blues, backing guitar, etc.)

Accessible to all levels

Program adapted to the student and to his desires (with or without music theory, composition, technique, reading of scores, rhythm, solos, sound work ...)

Every 10 lessons there is an ensemble lesson to practice what you have learned.

New formula possibility of learning directly in a group, band's coaching

For the little ones (3 to 5 years old), an adapted training and price

Elisa

5.0

(6)

I offer private music theory tutoring lessons to students of beginner level of different ages Depending on the student's final goal we adjust the knowledge and skills that we focus on with the student. I mostly focus on classical music theory, but can also provide an introduction to jazz and pop music theory.

My goal as a teacher is to keep and increase the students' love for music as well as to offer necessary and appropriate knowledge/skills to keep the student challenged and of course enjoy the fun of music!

Quentin

5.0

(6)

This course is above all there to make you want to play the guitar, so that it is a pleasure!

It will be based on the practice of the instrument, on the understanding and role of the guitar.

Theory will be based on the progress of practice. Step by step, practice and theory will thus be complementary, and will necessarily be useful!

Have you always dreamed of being able to play the guitar? it's time to get started!
Let the magic of music take hold of you and become the accomplished guitarist you always wanted to be!

Join my guitar class and let music bring joy and serenity into your life. Sign up now and begin your musical adventure!

“Music gives soul to our hearts and wings to thought.” - Plato

I am also here to advise you on the equipment you might need.
Advice on choosing an amplifier that suits your needs and fits your budget.
Choosing your first guitar, bass or ukulele, according to the criteria you want.
Also for small equipment, jack cables, plectrum/pick, tuner or instrument stand.

Possibility of offering this course to one of your loved ones, a very appreciated gift for people who would like to embark on a musical adventure!

Leandro

5.0

(6)

I would like to invite you to be part of my courses and private lessons to enjoy this wonderful way of learning to play the guitar.

I have more than fifteen years of experience as a teacher with children, adolescents and adults, and I have developed an effective METHOD that has been tested by more than a hundred students WITH TOTALLY SATISFACTORY RESULTS, you decide how far you want to go.

With my method you will learn to:

✅ Play the songs that you like.

✅ Develop the rhythm of the right hand.

✅ Perfect your technique in a conscious, healthy and effective way.

✅ Understand what you play and arrange your music with knowledge of Harmony.

✅ Play different styles to find your sound.

🔴 Start playing the guitar and enjoy with projection of being a good guitarist.

FLAMENCO GUITAR
- Flamenco technique
- Palos (styles)
- Accompaniment
- Clapping and rhythm

CLASSIC GUITAR
- Technique
- Reading, Solfeggio and interpretation
- Musical works
- Work with progressive learning books
- Preparation for admission to conservatories

MODERN GUITAR
- Improvisation
- Harmony
- Theory and music theory
- Several styles

Mary

5.0

(6)

Welcome to the music class!

Here, we are gonna discover the wonders of learning an instrument. From reading note letters, implementing a proper form to sight reading a piece, we are gonna learn in our own pace. If you're just learning music now and it feels like there's a lot to understand, don't worry we're gonna start from the basics. I will help you understand music and its elements.

With your dedication and my guidance, I'm positive that we will get a good result!

Martin

5.0

(6)

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

5.0

(6)

Would you classify improvisation as composition or performance? Well actually it is both! When you improvise you are composing music on the spot, performing what you have made up at the same time as you have composed it.

For many people improvisation is a scary word and having to improvise in a group or band is an alarming prospect. However, this really does not need to be the case. As long as you have a basic knowledge of how to play your instrument you will be able to improvise. Once you know the principle of how chords are formed you will soon be improvising with ease.

The key to success is understanding chords. Once you know how chords are formed and know what notes make up a few chords you will be well on your way towards being able to improvise. We will, therefore, start by ensuring a firm knowledge of certain chords. After this we will progress to improvising a simple melody over the top of these chords. The next stage is to start using notes that are not in the chord. The process is then open ended with emphasis on developing the melody.

If you play a keyboard instrument you will be able to improvise your own pieces and be able to entertain your friends at a moments notice. On the other hand if you play in a band or a group you will be well equipped to do a real 'jam' session.

Whether you play a single line instrument (flute, saxophone, trumpet, violin etc.) or keyboard instruments, this class is for you.

Jermaine

5.0

(6)

Welcome to my song writing session, within these sessions you will learn

1. How to structure a song
2. How to think of topics to write a song
3. Finding and creating music to match song ideas
4. How to put words and rhymes together

My tutoring sessions are very relaxed and easy going my first approach when starting out in the sessions is finding out about my students personality and what topics they like and means the most to them, after that we will write down all the ideas they come up with and build from there until we have a finished song.I can teach a various genres of song writing techniques for example Hip Hop, Grime R&B Gospel, Soul and many more

Looking forward to teaching you
Jermaine

Andrea

5.0

(6)

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.

Eto

5.0

(6)

Piano Classes: From the first notes to advanced repertoire, I tailor lessons to your level and goals — classical, pop, or even improvisation.

Jazz Voice Classes: Discover the freedom of jazz singing! Learn vocal technique, phrasing, interpretation, and improvisation in a relaxed, expressive way.

🧒 All ages and levels welcome – children, teens, and adults!
💬 Lessons can be in English – and I'm happy to adapt to your pace and style.

Let’s explore music together and make learning both fun and inspiring!

Gabriele

5.0

(6)

If you already know how to read music and play guitar, these lessons will help you 🎯 improve your technique, posture, and interpretation with pieces chosen specifically for you.

📚 What you’ll learn:
• 🎯 Improve precision and speed
• 🎹 Develop dynamics and different tones
• 👀 Enhance sight-reading skills
• 🎼 Learn intermediate-level repertoire tailored to your taste

🎯 Method:
I adapt the program to your current abilities, focusing on areas you want to improve most. You’ll work on technical exercises, stylistic awareness, and expressive playing, supported by modern teaching tools and clear practice plans.

Joaquin

5.0

(6)

Music brings joy to everyone, and guitar is one of the most special instruments. Whether it is on a family meeting, with friends, or just while being alone, the guitar is one of the most versatile instruments; you can play practically everything. Here you will learn not only the basics, but also how you can demonstrate your skills and put your emotions, feelings, and ideas on the guitar. From basic chords to playing any song you like, from soft and slow songs to improvising any solo on anything. Let's hop on a musical adventure together and let's begin to learn.

Lucio

5.0

(6)

This class is designed for conservatory students, private candidates and advanced musicians who need solid guidance in harmony, counterpoint and fugue, especially in preparation for exams and auditions.

We work on written exercises, stylistic correction and analytical understanding, with a clear method and step-by-step feedback. Particular attention is given to Renaissance and Baroque practices (modal counterpoint, species, tonal counterpoint, fugue), helping students understand why rules exist, not just how to apply them.

I have many years of experience teaching harmony and counterpoint, and several of my students have successfully passed conservatory composition exams thanks to this guided approach.

Lessons are adapted to the student’s level and goals, with a strong focus on clarity, consistency and practical results.