FM2SOPP15 Songwriting & Production Project

FM2SOPP15 Songwriting & Production Project

  • Course description
    • Course Code
      FM2SOPP15
    • Level of Study
      5.2
    • Program of Study
      Sound and Music Production 2 Composition
    • Credits
      15
    • Study Plan Coordinator
      Audun Ofstad Borrmann
Teaching Term(s)
2025 Autumn
About the Course

Builds advanced songwriting practice and applies it in a collaborative production setting. The songwriting part develops strategies for idea generation, lyric writing, and arrangement for different ensembles. Work includes genre analysis, reference studies, and short writing exercises that lead to original material. Key quality criteria for songwriting and production are discussed, with basic use of current AI tools where relevant for sketching or processing. Students evaluate strengths and areas for development through guided feedback.

The production project is carried out with the Sound Engineering cohort. Teams plan and produce an original song and a small media deliverable to a given brief. Composers take defined artistic roles, explain musical and practical decisions, and revise work based on feedback and production goals. Emphasis is placed on clear collaboration, genre awareness, efficient workflows, and deliveries that meet specification.

Course Learning Outcomes
Knowledge

The candidate...

  • Has fundamental knowledge of principles for arranging for different ensembles
  • Has developed strategies for songwriting
  • Has knowledge of available AI tools in the music production field, both musically generative and tools for processing
  • Has knowledge of key quality criteria for songwriting and music production relevant to a studio context
  • Has insight into their own strengths and areas for development as a composer in collaborative production settings
Skills

The candidate...

  • Masters different genres and can perform song analysis to gain further insight
  • Can explain artistic and practical decisions related to songwriting and arrangement in the production of an original song
  • Can reflect on and revise compositional work based on feedback and production goals
General Competence

The candidate...

  • Can plan and carry out songwriting, adhering to expectations and requirements from different target groups
  • Can collaborate with sound engineers in the planning and production of an original music product, contributing artistically in a defined role
  • Can exchange artistic and technical viewpoints with peers and contribute to collaborative development of music production practices
Learning Activities

In this course, the following teaching and learning methods can be applied, but are not limited to:

  • Lecture: Educator-led presentations or activities providing knowledge, skills, or general competencies in the subject area.
  • Group work: Collaborative activities where students work together to solve problems or complete tasks.
  • Tutoring: One-on-one or small group sessions with an instructor for personalized guidance and support.
  • Student presentations: Opportunities for students to demonstrate their understanding of course material by presenting to peers.
  • Online lessons: Digital content delivered via an online learning platform.
  • Guidance: Individualized advice and direction from instructors to support students in their learning journey.
  • Workshops: Practical sessions focused on hands-on application of theoretical concepts or skills.
  • Self-study: Independent study where students engage with course material on their own without any teacher support.
Assessments
Form of assessmentGrading scaleGroupingDuration of assessment
Course Assignment
Grade A-F
Reading List

Teaching materials, reading lists, and essential resources will be shared in the learning platform and software user manuals where applicable.