Learning to Listen Like a Songwriter
Commentary on Nicholas Tozier’s post at NicholasTozier.com
At Grosse Pointe Music Academy, we often talk about the value of practicing your instrument, refining your technique, and studying theory — but one of the most overlooked (yet most transformative) habits is intentional listening.
In a thoughtful piece on his website, songwriter and educator Nicholas Tozier reminds us that listening deeply is a skill — and it’s one every songwriter should nurture. He suggests slowing down, choosing a favorite song, and giving it your full attention. That means no distractions — just you, the music, and your curiosity.
Tozier breaks the process into stages:
🎵 First, simply listen. Let the music wash over you.
🎵 Next, listen like a writer. What choices did the songwriter make — and why?
🎵 On later listens, focus on specific elements: melody, lyrics, instrumentation, structure.
Listening in this way can offer profound insight into how songs are crafted and help songwriters develop their own creative voice. Tozier even encourages note-taking, marking up lyrics, and reflecting on your own reactions.
This type of active listening is a practice we strongly recommend to all students, especially those exploring composition and songwriting. Whether you’re just starting or already have a few songs under your belt, regularly setting aside time to analyze music will sharpen your intuition and accelerate your growth.
We thank Nicholas Tozier for his excellent breakdown of the listening process. You can read the full original article on his site: nicholastozier.com.
🎶 Want to explore songwriting with us? Ask about our group classes and private lessons for songwriters of all ages and levels.
– Henry Bahrou
Guitarist, Music Theorist, Music Academy Director
Grosse Pointe Music Academy
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