Artist

Jamie Gansell

Program Type

Residency

Description

This residency will take students on a journey through the craft of songwriting for change. They’ll begin by exploring what it means to stand up for justice. Students will listen to examples of protest songs being played by the teaching artist and have an opportunity to talk about what changes they want to see in the world. Next, students will learn the craft of songwriting. They’ll begin by exploring basic song structure such as verse, chorus, bridge, refrain, as well as theme. Throughout this residency, the students will be given the opportunity to collaborate creatively through group activities. By the end, they’ll pick a cause that resonates with them such as the Environment, Black Lives Matter, Homelessness, or Equity in Education. Depending on grade and ability, students will write lyrics together in groups or will be guided by the teaching artist. Finally, they’ll have a chance to create posters for justice, “go to” a protest in the classroom, and perform the song as a class.

Residencies range in price, from $2,000 and up, but we can use your available budget and ‘work backward’ to create a cost-effective residency for your school. We may be able to assist you in securing grant and funding opportunities.

Residencies are tailored to your needs but usually include:
• A kick-off assembly (performing arts only)
• A required orientation meeting and planning session
• A set of workshops for classes of up to 25 students each
• A student culminating or sharing event
• An evaluation meeting