FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Watch one of our Artist-Teachers in action with fifth graders. Then scroll down for all the deets!
EDUCATOR FAQ
What is Writers Room U?
Writers Room U is an organization that virtually connects professional songwriters, artists, and producers with K-12 schools and programs across the country to teach students about the music industry, music production, and the craft of songwriting.
What grades do you teach?
We teach grades K-12; however, our programs are a best fit for 3rd grade and up.
What is the ideal group size?
The ideal group size is 10-20 students. We can do groups larger than 20 with the understanding that it will be slightly less interactive for the students.
How long do these programs run?
We have programs that range in length from one-week to eight-weeks. Our most requested model is for each participating class to have one session per week for six weeks. We are flexible to meet the needs of the school.
What does a typical session look like?
During each session, students learn new concepts and skills (rhyme scheme, song structure, melody, etc). Students then apply what they've learned. In lower grade levels, students work together as a class with the songwriter to co-write a song. In higher grade levels, students work in small groups with the facilitation and coaching of the professional. There will also be more emphasis on the music industry, production, and songwriting as a career.
Can we customize the program?
Absolutely. If there are particular interdisciplinary topics that the school would like to incorporate, we can infuse those into the curriculum. Program length, musical style, and type of music professional are other areas that can be customized. We can offer keynotes and panel discussions as well.
What are the next steps?
Contact us at writersroomu@gmail.com. We’ll schedule a meeting with you to learn more about your school and then create a unique program that fits your goals. We hand pick the songwriters and handle all scheduling logistics to ensure the program runs smoothly.
SONGWRITER FAQ
Are songwriters paid for their time?
Yes! While we know inspiring kids will make all of you smile from ear to ear, we want this program to give back to the songwriting community as well, and that means paying you! We pay our songwriters per session. The more sessions you do, the more $$ you bring home.
What is the time commitment?
We have programs that are one-session only, and we have programs that are multiple sessions over several weeks. It is up to you to tell us what kind of a time commitment you’d like to sign up for. Most of our sessions are 45-minutes in length, one time per week.
What exactly do I teach in a session?
The curriculum varies depending on student age and number of sessions. During each session, students learn new concepts and skills (rhyme scheme, song structure, melody, etc). Students then apply what they've learned. In lower grade levels, students work together as a class with the songwriter to co-write a song. In higher grade levels, students can work together or in small groups with the facilitation and coaching of the professional songwriter. In higher grades, there will also be more emphasis on careers in music, such as songwriter, artist, producer, session musician, etc. We offer training sessions before you begin with your class and we build a curriculum guide for you to use as a resource. Also, the students' regular classroom teacher is in each of the sessions to support you with Zoom hosting and classroom management. You'll have Writers Room U to lean on every step of the way....but once you get rolling, you probably won't need us! You're the expert.
Anything else?
Writers Room U will handle scheduling, payment, curriculum building, and logistics coordination. All you will need to do is show up ready to share and inspire the next generation of hit music creators.
How do I get in touch with WRU?
For more information or to get involved, you can reach us here:
Email: writersroomu@gmail.com