Roots Music Project Workshop: Classic Songwriting Transformation (4 Weeks)

Classic Songwriting Transformation

Classic Songwriting Transformation is a four-week songwriting course designed to help students unlock the structure behind some of the most successful songs ever written. The class meets over two weeks, takes a one-week break for Spring Break, and then reconvenes for the final two weeks. Throughout the course, students will analyze classic chord progressions from hit songs and use those progressions as the foundation for creating original material, learning how familiar harmonic movement can inspire fresh and personal songwriting.

Students will explore what makes hit songs memorable by examining techniques such as ostinatos, repeating bass lines, and signature riffs that songs are built around. Each participant will write one song based on a classic chord progression and a second song constructed around an ostinato or repeating musical idea. While the course is lyrically open and flexible, it places strong emphasis on understanding why certain progressions work so well, using the Nashville Number System and basic music theory to understand songwriting structure and improve creative decision-making.

By the end of the course, each student will leave with two strong songwriting ideas that are close to finished works, along with practical tools they can continue to use in future writing sessions. This course is ideal for songwriters looking to break through creative blocks, strengthen their musical instincts, and transform proven musical ideas into original songs of their own.
Classroom dates:

March 4th / March 11th / March 25th / April 1st

About the Instructor:

is an accomplished professional bassist, educator, songwriter, music producer, and non-profit leader. He is the co-founder of iAM MUSIC, one of Southwest Colorado’s leading music-focused non-profits, and currently serves as the Community Development Director at Roots Music Project in Boulder, CO.

Jesse is an active performer and collaborator, playing bass with Nu Bass Theory, Wrenn Van, J-Calvin, Haiikuu, and internationally acclaimed Zimbabwean artist Blessing Chimanga, while also working as a sought-after freelance bassist.

As an educator and speaker, Jesse has presented at notable institutions and events including CU Boulder, Loyola University, Fort Lewis College, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and the Colorado Creative Industries Summit.

A recognized expert in non-profit development, Jesse is deeply committed to building bridges across the musical arts community—fostering collaborations, cultivating equity, and creating long-lasting relationships that strengthen the creative ecosystem in Colorado and beyond.

About Roots Music Project Foundation

Roots Music Project Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit local music incubator based in Boulder, Colorado. We believe in the power of music to make the world a better place. All music starts locally. We empower artists, fans, and venues to connect and create a thriving and inspiring local music scene.

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