May 6 - 27: Music Theory for Songwriters Made Fun with Tai Shan (Online)

Online via Zoom

Maximum Enrollment: 12

Registration & Refund Deadline: Friday, May 2, 2025

Music theory doesn’t have to feel like a dusty, intimidating subject that only applies to classical composers. In this lively and engaging workshop, we’ll show you how music theory can actually unlock the magic behind the songs that make you groove. This is not your traditional theory class—forget the dusty textbooks and complicated jargon. Instead, we’ll dive into music theory through hands-on, interactive games designed to help you discover new chord progressions, explore unique musical concepts, and most importantly, have fun while doing it.

What to Expect:

• Chord Progression Adventures – Explore how to create fresh, exciting chord progressions that will elevate your songwriting.

• Music Theory Games – From rhythmic challenges to harmonic puzzles, these interactive games make theory accessible and fun.

• Unlock the Groove – Discover the theory behind what makes songs groove and how to apply it to your own music.

• Play & Learn – Play your instrument, experiment with theory on the spot, and see how it directly enhances your songwriting.

Whether you’re just starting out or have been writing songs for years, this class will give you the tools to understand and use music theory in a way that’s exciting, inspiring, and totally relevant to your songwriting process. Join us and see how music theory can be the key to unlocking your next great song—without the boring stuff!

Skills Needed: This workshop is tailored for songwriters who want to strengthen their musical foundation without the boring lecture-style approach. Through a series of playful and creative exercises, you’ll learn the theory behind what makes your favorite songs so catchy and learn to apply those concepts directly to your own writing.

What to Bring: Reliable internet service and a smartphone, desktop, or laptop computer with a camera. Classes will be conducted over Zoom, however students do not need their own Zoom account.

Teacher: Tai Shan is an award winning Americana songwriter whose music has been featured in Billboard Magazine, American Songwriter, Americana UK, and on National Public Radio (NPR). Based out of Nashville, her songwriting focuses on positive messages. Her song, “Burn it Down” celebrates 100 years since the “right to vote” and was featured in Billboard Magazine. A magna cum laude graduate of Cornish College of the Arts, Tai Shan has toured the United States, Mexico, and Canada, performed for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Moore Theater, Music City Conference Center and at the famous Bluebird Café in Nashville. Tai also teaches online private lessons at Dusty Strings Music School! Click here to view her bio page with information about signing up for lessons

*Most classes and workshops are geared towards late-teens and adults. Younger learners will benefit most starting with private lessons.