This upper-level course will delve into the creation of new musical works for the stage, with an emphasis on music as an essential dramatic language. Students will explore the fundamentals of musical theater songwriting, as well as authentic musical theater writing processes including collaboration, adaptation, developing original story concepts, capturing musical ideas, engaging in dramaturgical discussions, sharing and receiving constructive criticism, rewriting, and presenting in-progress work. Following an introductory unit, students will utilize skills they are developing in class to create, workshop, and share a 3-person mini-musical.
Distribution Area: LA
Prerequisites and Restrictions
Music reading and notation skills are not required, but students must be able to sing and play basic chords on either piano or guitar well enough to create and share compositions. Additionally, a background in at least one of the following skill areas is recommended: songwriting, playwriting, poetry writing, music composition, electronic music production, music performance, theater performance.
Application required. Please apply for this course using the form below.
Other Information
Anna K. Jacobs is a Jonathan Larson Award-winning, Drama Desk-nominated Composer, Lyricist, and Book writer, whose musicals include Teeth and Disney’s The Tale of Moana. She has taught musical theater writing at NYU, Temple University, The New York Youth Symphony, and The New School.
Course Application
Applications for this course are now closed.
