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Sunday SongJam!: Songwriting Workshop

  • The Bee's Mouth 10 Western Road Hove, England, BN3 1AE United Kingdom (map)

Book here: sundaysongjambtn.eventbrite.co.uk

What is a SongJam?

A SongJam is a songwriting workshop that gets you to write a whole song – either on your own, or in a group with Brighton SongLab teacher Katherine – in under 4 hours!

The twist is that you’ll have to write your song about a theme of our choosing... and you’re not allowed to prepare in advance. It’s a speedy songwriting challenge!

Who’s it for?

SongJams are for three types of songwriter:

1) The Absolute Beginner

You can work with Katherine to write your first song! She’ll guide you through the tips and tricks that make songwriting seem simple and write a song with you, step by step.

2) The Blocked Writer

Ever heard of the Green Eggs and Ham hypothesis? Sometimes what you need in order to break through writers’ block are strict parameters. In this case, your topic will be determined for you and you’ll have just 4 hours to finish your song in. It might just do the trick!

3) The Collaborator

Written plenty of songs on your own but want to learn to write with others? Now’s your chance!

You don’t have to bring an instrument – in fact, you don’t even have to be able to play one. Some instruments will be provided but your voice and enthusiasm are all you really need!

Seasoned songwriters will have the opportunity to start songwriting ahead of the beginners; you won’t have to sit through the tips and how-tos if you don’t want to.

Break it down - what’s the format?

12-1pm: We’ll talk about the topic we’ve got. (In January it was 2020; in February it’s Love.) We’ll think of all the possible interpretations of that theme, then how we can represent those ideas both lyrically and musically.

1-2pm: Pick an idea and run with it! If you want to start songwriting now, you can start. If you’re a beginner, stick with Katherine and she’ll guide you through her list of tips and tricks and explain how to start a song, even when you’re really stuck.

2-3pm: We’ll have a quick 20 minute break – tea, coffee and biscuits are on the house and there’s a Co-op over the road if you want to go and get lunch.

Then we’ll get back to songwriting! Throughout, Katherine will be on hand to help you out of any ruts you might get stuck in.

3-4pm: After a final bit of songwriting, it’s feedback time. If you’re feeling brave, you can perform for everyone – but even if you’re not, Katherine will give you a bit of feedback and the opportunity to record a rough demo of your song.

How much does it cost?

£23 in advance.

£25 CASH on the door.

Have a listen to a song written at our January SongJam! https://soundcloud.com/brightonsonglab/january-songjam-2020-song

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About The Bee’s Mouth:

The Bee’s Mouth is a quirky bar in Hove, which regularly hosts life drawing classes and cinema nights in its cosy downstairs room. In their own words:

“The original hive of disrepute! A truly unique, fully independent late bar and live music venue. We specialise in Belgian bottled beer, solid spirit/mixers, craft beer on draught, and a unique selection of cocktails.”

The bar won’t be open until 3.30pm – but tea and coffee are on us.

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“I thoroughly recommend Katherine’s course if you are an aspiring songwriter. Katherine is incredibly engaging.”

“A fun and professional approach to teaching that brings out the best in us all - the lesson whizzes by!”

“If you have a desire to sing, create, and bring music to life you will want to do it with Katherine Stewart! She gives direction, guidance and creative motivation in such a fun positive way it makes the entire process a complete pleasure. It is time well spent.

Added bonus is her gorgeous voice and cheery personality.

Don’t hesitate to work with this talented, inspirational musician when you get the chance.”

Book here: sundaysongjambtn.eventbrite.co.uk

Earlier Event: January 26
Sunday SongJam!
Later Event: January 7
The Free Brighton Choir