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Songwriting

Before and After: The Evolution of a Song

Before and After: The Evolution of a Song

Mark Altrogge, Steve Cook, Vikki Cook |

Audio, PDF

Despite some great songs being written almost “spontaneously,” most great songs don’t start out that way. Humble and wise songwriters know that in the writing process any part of a song can be rewritten. In this seminar, you’ll learn what that process looks like along the way and develop faith for making radical changes to your songs that make them stronger.

Editing Your Song

Editing Your Song

Steve Cook, Vikki Cook |

Audio, PDF

The hardest part of writing your song may be when you think it’s finally done. In this workshop Steve and Vikki Cook (Before the Throne of God Above, I Will Glory in My Redeemer, Mighty Fortress) will discuss different ways you can turn a good song into a great one. Topics will include developing different lyrical, melodic, and harmonic approaches, remaining open-handed with your song, perseverance, and more.

Melodies that Sing

Melodies that Sing

Steve Cook, Vikki Cook |

Audio, PDF

Great melodies often come in a moment of inspiration, but what makes them great? And how can you incorporate those characteristics into your own melodies? Steve and Vikki Cook will be answering those questions, plus looking at the impact that harmony, groove, tempo and hooks have on your melody.

Overcoming Songwriter’s Block

Overcoming Songwriter’s Block

Steve Cook, Vikki Cook |

Audio, PDF

As songwriters we've all had our times of writer's block, when it seems like the heavens have closed and the creativity has all dried up.   What can be done?  Well…plenty!  Join Steve and Vikki Cook as they share a number of insights  and exercises  that are sure to help you break through writer's block.  

Practicing and Planning Creativity

Practicing and Planning Creativity

Mark Altrogge, Steve Cook, Vikki Cook |

Audio

Is waiting for God to give you a moment of inspiration the only way to write a song? Are there practices we can develop as songwriters that will foster and cultivate the creative spark? Based on a combined experience of 50 years of songwriting, Mark Altrogge and the Cooks will share practical ideas and methods for becoming a more faithful and skillful songwriter.

Retuning Hymns

Retuning Hymns

Kevin Twit |

Audio, PDF

Kevin Twit has been involved for over ten years with Indelible Grace, a group of musicians that have sought to revive theological depth in the church's songs by setting old hymns to new music. In this workshop he will cover where to find texts, how to evaluate texts, and how to go about setting them to a new melody. He will also inspire you to consider starting a hymn movement at your own church.

Songwriters and the Church: Navigating the Legal, Ethical, and Practical Issues of Music in the Church

Songwriters and the Church: Navigating the Legal, Ethical, and Practical Issues of Music in the Church

Brock Shinen |

Audio

This seminar will cover the legal, ethical and practical issues associated with songwriting in the church context, including employment and work for hire issues, expectations, compensation, liability risks, and income streams. We will also cover how to establish a publishing company, including the basics non-profit issues, royalty accounting and third party business relationships, such as CCLI and the PROs.  

Songwriting Panel

Songwriting Panel

Daniel Renstrom, Caroline Cobb, Adam Wright, Steve Cook, Vikki Cook, Ryan Foglesong |

Audio

In this breakout you’ll hear various seasoned writers discuss methods, practices, and attitudes they’ve developed over the years that have helped them write both congregational and performance songs.

Songwriting Panel

Songwriting Panel

Jordan Kauflin, Steve Cook, Vikki Cook, Adam Wright, Matt Boswell, Nathan Stiff |

Audio

In this seminar, you'll have the opportunity to listen to a panel of seasoned songwriters talk about the challenges and joys of writing songs for the church. There will be time for Q&A at the end.

The Business of Songwriting: The Legal, Practical, and Business Methods of Writing, Protecting, and Promoting Worship

The Business of Songwriting: The Legal, Practical, and Business Methods of Writing, Protecting, and Promoting Worship

Brock Shinen |

Audio

This seminar will cover all of the legal and business basics of songwriting, including ownership, splits, copyright protection, royalties, CCLI, the PROs, Sound Exchange, The Harry Fox Agency, and church-based publishing companies. It will also cover proper ways to use outside songs and avoid claims of infringement. The seminar will culminate in a Q&A session designed to answer specific issues faced by songwriters.

What the Psalms Teach Us About Songwriting

What the Psalms Teach Us About Songwriting

Mark Altrogge, Steve Cook, Vikki Cook |

Audio, PDF

The Psalms are a wealth of resources when it comes to learning to write honest, faith-filled songs that glorify God and serve his people. Mark, Steve, and Vikki, three veteran song writers, will share how the Psalms have inspired them in their own songwriting and communicate principles that will help you in your own craft.