SongCraft

Aminah founded SongCraft in 2006, after she discovered that so many of today’s songwriting workshops focus on surviving in the industry as an independent artist, rather than stripping it back to the base craft of how to write a powerful and memorable song, in particular, how to write strong lyrics.

Aminah has facilitated several SongCraft workshops and circles in Australia, the UK and the USA. She has run songwriting sessions at festivals, writers centres, high schools, after school programmes, church groups, prisons, private spaces and via video chat.

SongCraft covers the juiciest aspects of writing, from autobiographical to political, poetry to balladry, utilising the art of storytelling in a contemporary structure, in a “very relaxed, supportive workshop” environment.

Teaching is lyrics focused, so while instruments are welcome, they are not a requirement. Roll up your sleeves and get ready to write! Beginners, poets and songwriters welcome.

Workshops can run anywhere from 1 to 5 hours, to full day programmes. Songwriting circles run for up to 7 sessions over the course of days or weeks (generally 6 sessions over 6 weeks) and can be catered to suit a festival or group situation. Private coaching sessions are generally 1 hour.

To book Aminah for a one-on-one songwriting coaching session or a songwriting workshop or circle for your group, please email songcraft(at)aminah.com.au

Organised workshops and circles will be advertised on an ad hoc basis.

Aminah has a current Working with Children Check, National Police Certificate and Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.

In 2017 Aminah added a new workshop to her roster! Aimed at singers (and aspiring singers), the Vocal Preparation for Performance workshop teaches participants about vocal health, physical and vocal exercises for vocalists and takes the group through a guided meditation to help them get into the right head space to perform.

Aminah has performed all over the world and sung with orchestras, in ensembles and as a solo artist. Come and learn how she physically and mentally prepares in this 2 hour session.

VOUCHERS

SongCraft is now offering vouchers!

If someone you know would love to learn more about how to craft a memorable song, be a part of a songwriting circle or discover what it takes to prepare for performance, a SongCraft voucher is the perfect gift. Plus, SongCraft is the only entity in town offering a discounted concession rate for creative workshops.

If you’d like to gift someone you love (including yourself!) one of these experiences, email songcraft(a)aminah.com.au and we’ll get your printable voucher to you right away.

Vouchers currently available:

– Private 1:1 coaching session (available over Zoom if you’re not in LA)

– 5 hr songwriting workshop (includes a light lunch)

– 7 week songwriting circle (runs for 2 hours a week, in person or over Zoom)

– 2 hr Vocal Preparation for Performance workshop

Email for current prices.

TESTIMONIALS

One-on-one video coaching sessions:

“Aminah is an excellent listener, a thoughtful artist and a brilliant song architect. She took one of my songs that had potential and helped me turn it into a fan favorite that is a staple of every set. After I took on her suggestions, the audience reaction was palpable. I would trust her feedback to the moon and back.”

– Suzanne Yada, singer-songwriter @ Little Spiral, California

SongCraft Workshops:

“Aminah shares her passion for song and songwriting in this workshop. She brings a rich experience of crafting song, and the techniques and inspiration of songwriters who have gone before us. An exciting start to the process of putting words to music.”

– Sue Wallwork, WA

“Aminah’s gentle nature allows you to be confident in expressing how you write. She provides you with the right tools and wonderful guidance in how to improve and make the most of writing a song. Thank you, Aminah!”

– Michelle from Rcadia

“Aminah has an engaging manner – passionate and energetic! I feel much more comfortable with writing songs now.”

– Joel Phillips, WA

“A great session in expanding my knowledge around songwriting.”

– Ben Croudace, VIC

SongCraft Songwriting Circles:

“The weekly workshops were a great experience and have encouraged me to further develop as a writer. Aminah is a great teacher and has encouraged all of us to make an equal contribution. I have gained new appreciation and respect for music and songwriting. The techniques I have learned I will take with me for the rest of my life. Thank you!”

– Andrew Bond, UK

 

“Attending the songwriting circle really helped to open my eyes and ears to the techniques of writing lyrics and helped me take rudimentary ideas and turn them into actual song foundations.”

– Sophie Dunning, WA

“Aminah Hughes, gently and good naturedly, guides us through major song genres and ways to inspire the creative spirit in ourselves, to approach songwriting with renewed vigour. Aminah is supportive and encouraging, as well as inspiring in her own huge talent for beautiful songwriting and singing.”

– Sue Wallwork, WA