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The Practice of Songwriting

Inspiration, Lyricism, and Musicality

  • Textbook
The Practice of Songwriting cover

The Practice of Songwriting

Inspiration, Lyricism, and Musicality

  • Textbook
Quantity
Available on 15 Oct 2026
$53.99

Available for purchase via Bloomsbury etextbooks on publication date

This title is available for inspection copy requests

Description

Foster a lifelong, creative practice through lessons and exercises that integrate 3 main pillars of songwriting: inspiration, lyricism, and musicality.

The Practice of Songwriting guides people of all levels toward a rewarding craft of popular songwriting, progressively developing a range of skills. Each concept is clearly explained and then reinforced through exercises and analyses of examples from popular songs that demonstrate the same techniques. Learn about an array of topics, including:

- Music theory 101 for songwriters
- Melody writing
- Song structure
- Literary devices, character, and meaning in context for lyrics
- Creative inspirations and fears
- Storytelling
- Combining lyrical meaning with music composition

With its focus on incremental growth and thoughtful revisions of songs, this holistic approach helps songwriters build confidence. It not only teaches the foundations but also shows how to continue exploring and refining your authentic voice as a lifelong pursuit.

Table of Contents

Introduction
How to Use this Book

1. Cultivating an Inspired Mind
2. Setting Ourselves Up for Success
3. A Time Based Form of Expression
4. Originality and Rulesets
5. Combining Lyrical Meaning with Musical Composition
6. Finding Meaning in Context
7. Codified Elements of Songwriting
8. A Closer Look at Lyrics
9. Melodic and Lyrical Tension and Release
10. Storytelling
11. Lyrical and Musical Perspective
12. Crowd Participation
13. Making It All Up

Conclusion

Product details

Bloomsbury Academic Test
Published 15 Oct 2026
Format Ebook (PDF)
Edition 1st
Pages 288
ISBN 9798881863890
Imprint Bloomsbury Academic
Illustrations 99 b/w figures
Series Music Pro Guides
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing

About the contributors

Author

Michael Flannery

Michael Flannery is a Lecturer and the Technical D…

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