An immersive and engaging holiday program where 14 to 17 year olds who love music can learn song structure, lyric writing, chord progressions, melody creation and basic production.

Working together in small teams, and guided by professional singer-songwriter and music producer Sophie Hanlon, participants will create and record an original song in just 2 days!

What's included:

Two 6-hour Days: a hands-on, guided songwriting and music production journey led by professional songwriter, musician and producer Sophie Hanlon.

Equipment and Software: access to industry-standard music creation tools, within the inspiring and creative environment of the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.

Expert Guidance: personalised instruction and feedback from an experienced music professional to ensure students feel confident and supported.

Collaborative Exercises: unique activities designed to foster collaboration, creativity, and communication among team members.

Showcase: the program culminates in a Showcase where students will premiere their brand new original song in front of family and friends.

A Recorded Original Song: all students will leave the workshop with their original song recording.

Who can enrol?

SongLab is designed for students aged 14 to 17 who love music and want to learn to write their own songs. No prior songwriting experience is required, but it is ideal if students have at least 1 year experience on their chosen instrument or voice. More experienced students who have already experimented with songwriting can take their skills to the next level.

Our unique building block approach makes songwriting simple and approachable for all skill levels, by breaking it into easy-to-follow steps. From crafting melodies and lyrics to hands-on production and performance, the process is interactive and fun, ensuring creativity is within reach for every student! 

About the Director

Sophie Hanlon is a songwriter, performer, artist, and educator with over 15 years of experience in the music industry. Performing under the stage name Trophie, she has played at major festivals including Glastonbury and Dark Mofo. She was signed with Universal Music in Berlin as a professional songwriter and has also worked as a songwriter for APRA Australia. 

With extensive teaching experience, Sophie specialises in piano, vocals, music theory, composition, and production. She has developed successful songwriting programs that demystify the creative process and is passionate about empowering students to recognise their unique talents while equipping them with the skills to craft and produce music for the future.

FAQs

Will participants be required to sing?  

Not if they don't want to! However, if we do have group members who love singing, they'll have the chance to perform live with their recorded track in the Showcase. 

What kind of songs can participants create in this workshop? 

There are no limitations! Take inspiration from one of your favourite genres, or come up with something completely unique.  

Do participants need prior music experience? 

This workshop is ideal for students who have at least 1 year experience on their instrument or voice, but no songwriting experience is required. More experienced students who have already experimented with songwriting can take their skills to the next level!

Is food provided? 

No, you will need to bring your food with you 

WORKSHOP OUTLINE

Day 1: Foundations & Creativity 

• Introduction and group activities to spark creativity
• Songwriting basics: melody, lyrics and structure
• Lyrics & storytelling: brainstorm themes and explore writing tools such as metaphor, imagery and rhyme
• Creating catchy melodies
• Exploring chord structures
• Group formation and start co-writing your song

Day 2: Song Development & Showcase 

• Recap of Day 1 and review progress
• Refining lyrics, melody and structure
• Feedback session with peers and mentor
• Experimenting with instrumentation and dynamics
• Performance tips and stage presence
• Finalise songs and record demos
• Showcase for family and friends, where you’ll premiere your brand new original song
• Group feedback, celebration and wrap-up