Our Singer/ Songwriter Workshop, July 29-August 2, 2019, gives aspiring songwriters ages 13-18 the opportunity to begin writing their own songs, receive vocal coaching, work with new friends to form small bands, and perform their songs together in a final show.
Mason School of Music alum Thom Routon is now in his 3rd year teaching the workshop. Mr. Routon is an experienced musician, songwriter and audio engineer, and provides great insights to young musicians considering pursuing contemporary music careers. Emi Eiting will also be returning as the vocal coach, helping students with their singing techniques and performance expression. The program takes place at the Mason Community Arts Academy building, just off of the main Mason campus, in Fairfax, VA (part of the Washington, DC Metro area).
During the week, the students will divide into several small groups and begin building their original songs (including lyrics and melodies), learning new tools and techniques to help the creative process. The groups evolve into makeshift bands, preparing as many songs as possible in a week to present for family and friends in a casual “coffeehouse-style” performance.
“If your student has an interest in music but wants something more than learning songs that are already written, they can expect to start their journey of original music writing right here at this camp!” stated Mr. Routon.
Ms. Eiting will come in for specific hours during the week to work on building good, healthy singing habits and stage performance, which raises the level of presentation and expression of the final performance.
“My favorite part of the program is when we spend time listening to songs by artists of various genres, and we break everything down into the building blocks of a song: from the verse form to the lyric meaning to the chords they choose!” said Mr. Routon. “That kind of analysis can be really eye-opening for the students.”
“One of the greatest moments during the week happens when the groups get to play what they have written so far to each other,” explained Mr. Routon. “We always maintain a positive and supportive environment, and the students really enjoy listening to what their friends have written.”
The workshop is the perfect opportunity for students to develop that melody they’ve had stuck in your head for so long. It’s also a safe space to bounce ideas off like-minded students and get some experience playing in a band. And for those who might not know anything about songwriting, this camp is a great place to get started and get the creative thoughts flowing!
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