Songwriting, B.M.

California Baptist University

Program Summary – Bachelor of Music in Songwriting (B.M. in Songwriting)

The Bachelor of Music in Songwriting program is designed for students who are passionate about creating original music and lyrics. This program combines musical theory, composition, performance, and the business of music to equip students with the skills necessary for a successful career as a songwriter. Students learn to craft songs in various genres, understand the creative process behind songwriting, and develop the technical skills to record, arrange, and produce their music.

Key Program Features:

• Songwriting Techniques – Students learn to write lyrics, melodies, and harmonies, focusing on crafting songs that resonate emotionally with audiences.
• Music Theory and Composition – A strong foundation in music theory helps students understand how to structure and develop musical ideas.
• Music Production and Recording – Hands-on experience with industry-standard recording software and equipment to produce and arrange their own songs.
• Genre Diversity – The program encourages exploration across various genres, from pop, rock, and country to jazz, classical, and electronic music.
• Lyric Writing – In-depth focus on writing compelling lyrics, including themes of love, loss, social issues, and personal reflection.
• Collaboration and Networking – Opportunities to collaborate with other musicians, lyricists, and industry professionals, helping students build a network within the music industry.
• Live Performance – Performance opportunities to showcase original works and build stage presence.
• Music Business and Marketing – An exploration of the music industry, including copyright law, contracts, and the promotion and distribution of music in the digital age.

Key Areas of Study:

1. Songwriting Fundamentals – Learning the basic structure of songs, such as verse, chorus, bridge, and breakdowns.
2. Advanced Composition – Techniques for creating complex musical arrangements and orchestrations.
3. Lyric Writing – Writing effective lyrics, including poetic devices, narrative techniques, and thematic development.
4. Music Production – Learning to use digital audio workstations (DAWs), mixing, mastering, and sound engineering to bring songs to life.
5. Performance and Collaboration – Developing performance skills and collaborating with other musicians to create and refine songs.
6. Music Theory – Study of harmony, melody, rhythm, and form to deepen understanding of how songs are constructed.
7. Music History – Understanding the evolution of popular and classical music, and how historical styles influence modern songwriting.
8. Music Business – Learning about music rights, royalties, marketing, and how to navigate the commercial side of the music industry.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the B.M. in Songwriting program can pursue careers in various aspects of the music industry, including:

• Songwriter/Composer – Writing songs for themselves or for other artists across a wide range of genres.
• Music Producer – Overseeing the creation and production of songs, working with artists and sound engineers.
• Music Supervisor – Selecting music for films, TV shows, commercials, and video games.
• Music Publisher – Managing the copyright and licensing of songs, helping artists get their work placed in media.
• Artist Manager – Managing the careers of musicians, guiding their public image, performances, and business dealings.
• Live Performer – Performing original songs in concerts, festivals, and other live settings.
• Sound Engineer – Operating audio equipment for recording, mixing, and mastering songs.
• Music Educator – Teaching songwriting, music theory, and performance in schools or private lessons.
• Music Licensing and Distribution – Working in the business side of music to get songs into film, TV, or advertising.