SONGS FOR THE
A Songwriting Masterclass with Moira Smiley + Gary Grundei
FOUR LIVE sessions on Zoom
Saturday + Sunday
January 18 & 19, 2025
January 25 & 26, 2025
1:30-3:30 PM EST
only 16 spots total available
CLASS DESCRIPTION
Moira and Gary co-teach a songwriting workshop all about simple, indelible songs that can call others in. Classes are on either side of the U.S. presidential inauguration, and many of us will want to express our truth in community.
In this unique 4-session workshop, we’re sharpening tools to make new songs and refrains that deeply connect groups of us wherever we gather. We’ll study lineages of powerful singing built to ‘magic’ contexts outside a mic, a stage and an audience – protest, lullaby, trance, uplift and mourning.
All 8 hours of classes happen LIVE on Zoom, and individual feedback will be given. No prerequisites–this workshop is for all levels of singer, songwriter, or musician
Now is the ideal time:
Name your own price between $175 and $350.
Max 16 participants
Meet the Instructors...
A Grammy-nominated singer, composer, and educator renowned for her mastery of the voice and ability to inspire singers of all levels.
Moira is a celebrated educator, teaching at leading musical institutions and inspiring singers of all backgrounds. She’s published over 100 choral works that are sung by millions of singers worldwide.
With a deep respect for the cultural roles of singing, Moira blends teaching, composing, and performing to empower communities and celebrate the transformative power of music.
Known for her rich voice and dynamic stage presence, Moira has collaborated with some of the most celebrated names in music, including Tune-Yards, Eric Whitacre, Chris Thile, Hilary Hahn, and Morten Lauridsen.
As a member of Tune-Yards, she has performed on major platforms such as Jimmy Kimmel Live, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, and the UK’s Later… with Jools Holland. Recently, she performed & recorded for Chris Thile’s project ‘Attention!’ and Laurie Anderson’s ARK.
A NYC-based musician, teacher, and founder of golden lotus studio, an online home for songwriters.
Known for his work with the band High Fiction and original compositions for theatre, film, podcasts, and concert stages, Gary also coaches and produces other artists.
Recent highlights include sound design and original music for the podcast Feminist Files, featuring Jodie Foster and Samira Wiley, and the single Bloody Mary Brunch with High Fiction.
Gary’s compositions have been featured by NPR, MTV, The Kennedy Center, and the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. He has collaborated with artists like Meredith Monk, Bill Pullman, and Leigh Fondakowski and performed on stages from Carnegie Hall to Hollywood’s Hotel Cafe. A seasoned educator, Gary has taught at Naropa University, Occidental College, and The Ohio State University.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can’t attend live? Will I have access to the recording?
Yes! We’ll grant access to you to watch the recording for up to a month after the call.
What if I love to sing, but I don't have experience writing songs or I don't know music theory?
Don’t worry. This workshop is for all levels of experience and expertise. We will be writing songs from the heart, born in the body and made to resonate with others. If anything, too much music theory is sometimes a hindrance in such matters.
What if I’m nervous or afraid to share my work in front of others during the masterclass?
Feeling nervous about sharing is completely normal, even for experienced songwriters. Our masterclass is designed to be a safe and supportive space where every participant—regardless of experience—can grow. You’ll receive constructive feedback and encouragement, and many participants find their confidence increases as they share and connect with others who understand their journey.
FOUR LIVE sessions on Zoom
Saturday + Sunday
January 18 & 19, 2025
January 25 & 26, 2025
1:30-3:30 PM EST
Name your own price between $175 and $350.
Max 16 participants
