The Practice of Songwriting

Reviews / Votes

The Practice of Songwriting is a meaningful, approachable resource for students and more seasoned songwriters alike. Flannery helps readers develop their musical ears and pens with numerous listening examples and practical creative exercises that make songwriting attainable and accessible for aspiring musical creatives of all kinds. -- Jonathan Schaller * Assistant Professor of Music Education, Crane School of Music, SUNY Potsdam, USA * In his many years as a musician, a producer, and professor, Michael Flannery has shown exquisite sensitivity to the composition of songs. Fascinated by the craft of music-making, he's dedicated himself to close study of songwriting technique. At the heart of his practice is unshakable faith in the power of music and musical composition to inspire, enlighten, entertain, and bring people together. This book is both a compendium of the things he's learned and a repository for his peerless enthusiasm. -- Tris McCall * critic & arts journalist, NJ Arts and Jersey City Times * The Practice of Songwriting is beautifully and clearly written with emotional intelligence, friendliness, and wisdom. Flannery is able to break music theory into accessible terms, with helpful examples and hands-on exercises that make the concepts come alive. This excellent book is a worthy and useful addition to the literature! -- Deanna Walker * Senior Lecturer in Songwriting, Blair School of Music, Vanderbilt University, USA * Michael Flannery's skills as a teacher and songwriter are evident on every page of this book-his warmth, his patience, his humanity, and his ability to connect. This book is a must-have for anyone (myself included) who's ever been daunted at the prospect of writing a song. -- David Levine * Professor of Practice, Department of Theatre Dance & Media, Harvard University, USA *