I think making a big deal about Blume's credentials is a faulty premise. Yes, we could go into the old "Those who can, do. Those who can't, teach" thing...

But I've also found that those who can, often can't teach.

So my point is, whatever Blume has accomplished on his own may have very little bearing on how well he teaches.

That said...I don't expect much from "The College of Songwriting" other than a few nuggets of wisdom here and there. It's not like cutting hair. You need to have something within you that already understands the majority of the process...and these classes should shore up your knowledge of structure, the market, etc. I have a hard time believing a complete novice could walk into a songwriting class and walk out with everything needed.

http://www.soundclick.com/MarkKaufman