Artist Development.

This course is designed for songwriters, lyricists, rappers, singers, musicians, producers, and anyone with a passion for creating original music. Whether you are just starting out or already developing your artistic identity, this course will help you build your creative skills, explore collaboration, and gain insight into the songwriting process, performance, recording, and the wider music industry.

Overview

Our five day Artist Development summer school is centred around songwriting, collaboration, recording, and live performance. Designed for aspiring artists, producers, rappers, singers, lyricists, and musicians, the course gives you the opportunity to develop original music in a supportive and creative environment. Across the week, you will work in a computer suite, recording studio, and live venue, gaining experience in turning an idea into a finished piece of music. At the start of the course, you will be placed into small groups and will work together across the week to develop a shared idea into an original song. From initial concept and songwriting sessions through to demo recording, rehearsal, and final performance, you will experience the full creative journey of bringing a song to life.

Key info

  • Qualification: Short Course Certificate
  • Duration: 5 days ( non residential)
  • Hours of study: 5 hours a day
  • Start date: 17 August 2026
  • Fees: £275
  • Entry Requirements: No formal qualifications required. Find out more

Get in touch

Get in touch

Get in touch

If you have any questions about this course, your application or if you'd like to arrange a tour of Spirit Studios, please get in touch on:

0161 276 2100 OR Contact us
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Thursday 02 July 6:30pm (6:20 arrival)

Open Evenings are a great opportunity to find out more about our courses, meet our expert tutors and see our facilities in action.

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Course details

Here is the latest example of the curriculum for The Music Business summer school

Your course

The course begins with an introduction to the music industry, exploring key roles, career pathways, and how different parts of the industry connect. In the afternoon, you will take part in a songwriting circle and begin generating ideas, from a provided industry brief, in small groups for the project they will develop across the week.

On day two, your group will develop your chosen idea into a stronger song concept, focusing on lyrics, structure, melody, rhythm, and creative direction. You will then begin creating a basic demo recording to capture and shape your ideas.

 

This session takes place in the recording studio, where you will explore basic recording techniques and continue developing your track. Working with your group, you will record and refine your song before creating a simple mix of your demo.

On day four, you will take your song from the studio to the stage. Your group will rehearse your piece in our live venue, developing confidence, stagecraft, and performance skills as you prepare for the final showcase.

On the final day, you will complete your final rehearsals and prepare for the showcase performance. Your group will then perform your original song live in our venue, with an audio recording captured as a record of your work.

Teaching and learning

Teaching takes place in a variety of formats including lessons, and practical workshope. Our aim throughout is to develop your knowledge and understanding of the music industry and to apply what you’ve learnt.

Entry requirements

Applicants must be at least 15 years of age, have good spoken/written English and basic IT skills. If you’re aged between 15 and 18, we may need to contact you before we can confirm your place on the course.

Fees and funding

  • £249 Early bird fee*
  • £275 Normal fee

Early bird fees are available for applications received by 30 April.

How to apply

Click below to start your application

Apply now

Any questions? Speak to one of our course advisors

Business man

If you have any questions about this course, your application or if you'd like to arrange a tour of Spirit Studios, please get in touch on: