1.  Call and Response:  Why do we write songs?  - Staying connected to the call to create.  Listening for songs.  Connecting with the Songwriter Within.

2.  Choicemaking:  Deciding What Matters - What choices do we make as we’re writing?  How can our songs reflect our true selves, both in content (ideas) and in form (melody, rhythmic approach, lyrics)? What choices exist after a song is written? 

3.  Muse, Creative Spirit, Unseen Hand  - Tapping into the unconscious, right-brain, dreamlike and intuitive aspects of songwriting.  What aids this process?  What impedes it?  Is there a source of deeper wisdom that is accessible to us as we write?

4.  Mistakes, Failure and Loss - Improvisation and experimentation. Peak experiences and valleys.  New ways of seeing loss and disappointment.   

5.  Framing, Context & Impermanence   When is a song finished or a body of work complete?  Why do we record, if we do?  The interplay of holding and releasing. 

6.  Performance: Creating Connection   Are there ways in which creating a performance is like writing a song?  Where do we find connection and disconnectedness through performance?  What assists and impedes us?  Is it possible to create similar connections in practice and rehearsal? 

7.  Finding Support  

As we go deeper, can we also extend our reach?  As we look inward for deeper meaning, how do we see our external circumstances and how can we skillfully navigate the challenges we face as artists? 

Format:  Inspirational ideas, facilitated group discussion, sharing of songs and at home work.  Non-critiquing approach.  Refreshments provided. 

To register: Email lynn@lynnharrison.ca

Or call 416-462-0463

Frequently Asked Questions:

How is this different from other songwriting courses? - This focuses as much on the “why” as the “how” and enhances the songwriter’s ability to go deeper toward truth and meaning--which translates into a richly satisfying creative life and the ability to make a meaningful contribution in the world. 

Who is this course for?  Any songwriter who wants to reconnect with his or her creative centre and write authentic, beautiful and powerful songs. Any songwriter who struggles with issues of meaning, recognition and fulfillment. 

Do I have to play an instrument?  No.  However many songwriters bring guitars, and there is a piano in the room.  It helps to have some previous songwriting experience but it’s not essential.