In this course students will learn and practice the essential elements of songwriting. These elements include lyrics (text), melody, harmony, and arrangement (instrumentation). Over the course of the class, students will analyze popular songs from a variety of genres as case studies. Students will be asked to practice writing songs on their own and in collaborative groups. Final evaluations will involve performances of songs written during the two-week period. Note: Students must be prepared to either perform their own songs or find another person to perform their songs. Students will be graded only on their songwriting technique, and not on vocal or instrumental performing abilities.