Demystifying Bridges: Why and How to Write Them with Megan Burtt

Adult Group Class / Songwriting Program

You’ve got a strong verse, a memorable chorus… and then comes the bridge. For many songwriters, the bridge is the hardest part of the song to write — the section most likely to get skipped, overthought, or left unfinished. But a great bridge can be the emotional turning point that elevates a good song into an unforgettable one.

In this workshop, award-winning songwriter and educator Megan Burtt breaks down the purpose, structure, and power of bridges in contemporary songwriting. Through listening examples, writing exercises, and practical techniques, students will learn how to create bridges that deepen lyrical meaning, introduce melodic contrast, build tension, and deliver emotional payoff.

For Intermediate & Advanced Songwriters

We’ll explore:
- Why songs need bridges (and when they don’t)
- Techniques for creating contrast melodically, lyrically, and harmonically
- How to transition smoothly into and out of a bridge
- Real-world examples from classic and modern songs

Whether you tend to avoid bridges altogether or want to make yours stronger and more intentional, this class will give you tools to approach them with greater confidence and creativity.

Songwriter, performer, and educator Megan Burtt is an award-winning songwriter known for her emotionally resonant lyrics, soulful voice, and strong storytelling. A graduate of Berklee College of Music with a degree in songwriting, she has built a multifaceted career as both an artist and educator. Megan has taught private songwriting lessons, served as a songwriting instructor at the University of Colorado Denver Music Department, and has been a guest lecturer at Metropolitan State University of Denver and Song School at the Rocky Mountain Folks Festival.

Her songwriting has earned national recognition, including wins and finalist placements in major competitions such as the Kerrville New Folk Competition, Mountain NewSong Competition, Songwriter Serenade Competition, and the Great American Song Contest, as well as recognition from the Westword Music Awards. Drawing from years of touring, performing, and teaching, Megan helps songwriters of all levels develop their craft, strengthen their lyrical voice, and write songs that connect deeply and authentically.

Megan is equally poised and powerful performing on a festival stage or teaching the art of songwriting in a workshop setting. It’s been wonderful to be part of Megan’s evolution as an artist, from when she initially won our Songwriter Showcase many years ago to her most recent performance and workshop at the Folks Festival in 2022. ~ Steve Szymanski, co-founder, Planet Bluegrass

“She’s got prosody running through her bloodstream” - Pat Pattison 

“There is a wonderful uniqueness when listening to Megan Burtt, from her purposeful lyrics that invite you to pay attention to the story she is telling to her melodic delivery of those lyrics that make you glad that you did. Listen and enjoy…as often as you can.”  -Bobby Rymer, Writer's Den Music Publishing, Nashville, TN