Workshops/Master Classes/Lesson Blocks With
  Sam Leopold

Songwriting is a process of self-discovery, a way to focus knowledge and experience, build communication skill and confidence, and explore personal values. With these things in mind, I help students get at the meaning of songs and guide them in the practice of writing. A range of subjects and interests, such as language, drama, history, psychology, social studies, even math and science can all join in when the songwriter goes to work.

I also teach teenagers who have special needs, helping them focus on perceptions and personal identity. We express what they see by writing songs together that contain their ideas and feelings. They then have a sense of ownership in the artistic outcome. I produce CDs of the songs we write together, which my special needs students can keep for future enjoyment.