Minor in Songwriting

The songwriting minor at Seaver College is designed for those creative musical artists who want to sharpen their musical skills, develop their understanding of musical concepts, and take their songwriting capabilities to the next level. The curriculum includes voice, piano, and/or guitar, basic music technology and theory, and encourages students to explore pop and jazz styles while applying the fundamental elements of songwriting to create their own music, inspired by history’s great songwriters. The curriculum includes two semesters of participation in one of the Pepperdine choirs or Jazz Band.  It also includes a semester of private instruction in song-writing as well as the Songwriters Showcase, where songwriting students come together to perform their creative works in front of a live audience.   

Songwriting Minors must specialize in an emphasis of their choice: Voice, Guitar, or Piano.

The Minor in Songwriting with an emphasis in vocal performance is designed for students who are interested in contemporary voice and songwriting within the framework of a liberal arts education. The program emphasizes vocal health, stylistic versatility, and creative artistry in genres such as pop, R&B, rock, indie, worship, and musical theatre crossover. Students receive instruction in voice, songwriting, music theory, and studio performance techniques, and are encouraged to develop their unique artistic voice. This minor is well-suited for students looking to deepen their craft as performers, writers, and creators while maintaining a primary focus in another academic field.