Program Original Songwriting

Questions? Call 801.532.7500 or email programs@spyhop.org.

Music

Original Songwriting

Turn your ideas into an original song and record a demo—no experience necessary.

15–19 AGE RANGE
Free COST
September 8 – October 14, '26 DATE
Tuesday & Thursday, 4:00 PM–6:00 PM SCHEDULE
Foundational SKILL LEVEL
Room 202 LOCATION

Whether you're strumming your first chord or writing lyrics in your notes app, this class helps you turn raw ideas into an original song that’s all your own. You’ll explore song structure, write lyrics, learn chord progressions, and record a demo of your track. Want to perform it live? Totally an option. Want to keep it personal? That’s cool too. With time to write, jam, and create at your own pace, this is your space to experiment and grow as a songwriter.


Gear + Software:

  • Instruments (piano, guitar, ukulele)
  • Microphones
  • PA system
  • DAW (Digital Audio Workstation)
  • Ableton Live

Great for anyone who is curious about music, whether you dream of playing in a band or going solo. Perfect for beginners and aspiring artists who want to write, play, and tell their story through song.

Allyson Katana

ALLYSON KATANA

Musical Arts Mentor

As a former Spy Hop Alumni, I’m excited to be teaching all the classes that changed my life over a decade ago! If you see me in the hallways, please say hi—I love chatting, meeting new people, and getting new music recommendations.

I’ve worked on all sides of the music industry, from selling records and music gear, to booking/promoting concerts and events at local venues, and even performing as a touring musician. I play bass, guitar, piano, sing, and am currently working on improving my skills with the drums and cello.

Register for Original Songwriting

We're so glad you want in! To get started, fill out this form with some basic information, and we'll email you with next steps.
Student Information
Parent/Guardian Information
Additional Information

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FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS

Our classes are designed for in-person participation. Limited remote attendance may be possible in certain circumstances. Availability depends on the class format and is considered on a case-by-case basis.
Absolutely! Many of our students self-identify as neurodivergent. We keep our classes small so that our students have the best experience possible, and our professional teaching artists can accommodate different kinds of learners and ensure special needs are met.
We keep all our classroom spaces an adult/parent-free zone (excluding staff) to ensure students feel free in their creative expression. If you'd like to see the building and learn more about Spy Hop, you can schedule a tour with our team outside of class time.
Sign up for our email list! We email updates about what's going on at Spy Hop, when new programs are available, and upcoming events.
There are lots of ways you can support Spy Hop: make a donation, attend an event, sign up for our emails, follow us on social media, or spread the word about Spy Hop. However you can give and show up for youth voice, just know that we're grateful you're a part of it all.
We've found that small program sizes give the best opportunity for creative learning and mentorship—because of this, most of our classes have a capacity of ten students.
Most of our in-house programs are for ages 12–19 years old. We occasionally offer programs or workshops for young people ages 19-25. We offer spring and summer camps for younger kids ages 8-12.
After you fill out the form for a program, our team will get back to you within 10 business days to confirm your spot. This can include scheduling an interview or a check-in, or confirming your interest in the class.
Spy Hop has a small parking lot on the North side of our building and is first-come, first-served. You can enter this lot on 900 S between Spy Hop and Vertical Diner. 2-hour parking is available along 900 S. Street parking is available on 200 W and 300 W. Washington Street and Jefferson Street have limited public parking, with big sections of 2-hour only parking. Please pay close attention to signage to avoid a ticket! Paid parking is also available across the street, at Triangles bar. Limited parking passes are available for students: please visit the Lab for more information.
Currently enrolled students can checkout equipment for short-term use on projects. We do not offer equipment rentals to the general public. For more equipment information please see the Lab for more information, and check out our Gear Policy.
Our programs open for form submissions on Tuesdays at 10 am—five weeks before the program begins.