Songwriter Events

Dallas Chick Singer Night at the House of Blues last Sunday of Each Month

2012-02-04T17:17:00.001-08:00

Ten gals will perform at each show. Some of them are songwriters, but others are on the hunt for good songs. I thought we could connect the two groups somehow.

The next show is on Sunday, February 26th at House of Blues (restaurant stage) at 6:30pm. There will be a raffle with some great prizes - Container Store closet makeover, HOB concert tix, round of golf, among other chick prizes (purses, jewelry, boutique gift card, etc).

The show is hosted by Lisa Apple.

Free Local Music Tours--February 15

2012-02-04T11:17:00.001-08:00

On Wednesday Afternoon, February 15, we will host three music-related Walking Tours in the downtown area. For any who previously registered for the Wednesday afternoon pre-conference workshop mentioned in my last e-mail, please note: that event has been cancelled due to insufficient enrollment. You will receive a reimbursement from the national organization for that part of your fees. We would invite you to consider joining us for one of the afternoon tours.

Individuals registered for the MLA conference will have the first option for all of these tours, but most of these can accommodate enough people that some spaces may be available for local music lovers. After the first of February I will send you information on how to sign up for any available spaces. For now I thought I'd let you know what will be included in the tours, so you can mark your calendars and consider which tour group you might like to join.

Organ Crawl

Dallas boasts a number of significant instruments, including some within walking distance of the Fairmont. We will visit three sites (four organs) for this year’s Organ Crawl:

The magnificent Lay Family Organ at the Meyerson Symphony Center. Tour led by DSO organist Mary Preston.

The historic instrument and carillon tower at theCathedral Shrine of the Virgin of Guadalupe. Tour led by Brian D. Bentley, Director of Music Ministry, and Cathedral Organist Corey Candler.

Two very fine mechanical-action instruments at First Presbyterian Church. Tour led by organist Thomas Froehlich.

12:15 Meet in hotel lobby

12:30 Meyerson (includes brief demonstration concert)

1:45 Walk to Cathedral

2:00 Cathedral

3:00 Walk to First Presbyterian

3:30 First Presbyterian

4:30 Walk back to hotel

Dallas Arts District

The product of thirty years of dreaming and building, the Dallas Arts District is the largest contiguous arts area in the nation, spanning 68 acres and 19 blocks. It has been called the most significant arts building project since the construction of New York’s Lincoln Center

It was the intention of the district’s planners that the district would not only be a home for the arts, but would itself be a collection of art works. The district comprises thirteen architecturally and historically significant buildings, making Dallas the only city in the world with buildings designed by four Pritzker Prize winning architects in one block.

Our tour will provide an insider’s view of three anchor buildings (including the two newest additions to the district) dedicated to music and theater:

Winspear Opera House, designed by Spencer de Grey of Foster & Partners, home of the Dallas Opera. Tour led by Jennifer Schuder, Chief Marketing Officer/Director of Community Outreach.

Wyly Theatre, designed by Rem Koolhaas. Home of the Dallas Theater Center. Tour led by a representative of the AT&T Performing Arts Center.

Meyerson Symphony Center, designed by architect I.M. Pei and acoustician Russell Johnson. Home of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Tour led by Melanie Armstrong, Meyerson House Manager, and DSO Chief Librarian Karen Schnackenberg.

12:15 Meet in hotel lobby, walk to Meyerson

12:30 Meyerson (includes brief demonstration concert, orchestra library)

2:00 Winspear and Wyly

4:00 Return to hotel

Dallas Public Library and 508 Park Avenue

Bluesman Robert Johnson (1911-38) recorded only twenty-nine songs in his brief career, in 1936 and ’37. That small repertoire, however, was powerfully influential, shaping the future work of such major pop, rock, and blues stars as the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, the Allman Brothers, and Led Zeppelin.

In recent years, Dallas’s 508 Park Avenue has become famous as one of the only two locations where Robert Johnson recorded. The 1929 Art Deco building and adjoining warehouse served as the local offices of Brunswick and Vocalion Records and distribution center for Warner Brothers Film Exchange. Offices sometimes served as makeshift recording studios, not only for Johnson, but for other groundbreaking performers such as Bob Wills and his Texas Playboys, the Stamps Quartet, W. Lee O'Daniel and his Hillbilly Boys, the Crystal Springs Ramblers, and the Light Crust Doughboys. In recognition of the site’s heritage, it was here that in 2004 Eric Clapton recorded Sessions for Robert J. and Me and Mr. Johnson. Tour led by Bruce Buchanon, Associate Pastor of Community Ministries at First Presbyterian Church.

Dallas’s J. Erik Jonsson Central Library is the second-largest public library building in the country. It houses a downtown branch; a state-of-the-art Children’s Center; and extensive circulating and reference collections, as well as significant archival collections on its research floors. It is also home to a remarkable collection of contemporary art pieces, which the library has collected since its inception in 1901.

The tour will include an overview of the entire building as well as a more in-depth look at theFine Arts Division. In addition to its impressive circulating and reference collections, the Fine Arts Division houses significant archival materials related to local music organizations such as the Dallas Opera, the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, the Dallas Theater Center, and others. The library has also commissioned several important musical works in its history, including Milhaud’s Symphony No. 11, Ginastera’s Third String Quartet, and Gunther Schuller’s First Symphony. Manuscripts of these works and other musical treasures from the library and other local collections will be on display in honor of MLA’s annual meeting.

The tour will also pass near other Dallas landmarks along the walk to and from the Fairmont. The famous Neiman Marcus chain is a Dallas original, and its flagship store is still a shopper’s mecca in downtown. The luxurious Adolphus Hotel was the creation

of beer baron Adolphus Busch. Opened in 1912, the Adolphus is probably the only hotel in the country with a Steinway grand piano almost as famous as the hotel itself. You’ll find part of the story on-line, but we’ll save a local secret for the tour! Other points of interest along the way include the Magnolia Building (which will explain all the Pegasus statues and symbols you’ll see around the city); the Aristocrat Hotel (now Indigo), Conrad Hilton's second hotel, but the first to actually bear his name; the historic Majestic Theater; and the Dallas Grand Hotel, originally the 1956 Statler Hilton, known for its unique architecture, a Y-shaped tower supported by an innovative cantilevered structural system. Adjacent to the Grand is the site of the original Dallas Public Library, a gift from steel baron Andrew Carnegie. The second library building, designed by Dallas’s most famous architect, George Dahl, still stands on the site today. Tour led by MLA member Tina Murdock, Assistant Manager, Fine Arts and Humanities Divisions.

1:00 Meet in hotel lobby, walk to 508 Park Avenue

1:30 508 Park

2:15 Walk to library

2:30 Dallas Public Library

4:00 Walk back to hotel

Songwriter's Performance Workshop - Feb. 05-12, 2012

2012-02-04T10:20:00.001-08:00

Unlike “fantasy” rock camps, this is the “real deal” for singer-songwriters who wish to explore their creative selves. During this Six-Day Intensive workshop, Jim Messina will work with singer-songwriters to help them learn new ways to find the words to express their emotions and feelings in lyrical terms.
Created and facilitated by Jim Messina, the week begins with the first few days focused primarily on songwriting. By mid-week, participants begin working on performing their own songs in preparation for the workshop’s Saturday evening concert. On the eve of the sixth day, attending songwriters will perform their original songs and poems in front of a live concert audience staying at the Alisal Guest Ranch.
DOWNLOAD FULL PRESS RELEASE

When:

Where:

Workshop Tuition:
Special Rate:

Workshop Accomodations:

February 5 - 12, 2012

The Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort
1054 Alisal Road
Solvang, CA 93463

$3,000 per participant
$4,000 for "Writing partners" or "Performing Duos"/shared double room rate is available.

The stay at Alisal is $255 per night for single; $355 per night for double rooms, which includes accommodation in a deluxe room and all meals daily. Call 800.4.ALISAL or email reservations@alisal.com.

For Enrollment: Call (805) 686-1862

To Contact The Workshop by Email: info@swpworkshop.com

or DOWNLOAD THE SONGWRITING WORKSHOP PACKAGE (.pdf)

For workshop accommodations: Call The Alisal: (800) 425-4725 Email: reservations@alisal.com

Richard Leigh performs in Stephenville, Feb 11

2012-01-30T09:18:00.001-08:00

Saturday, February 11

6:00 PM

Valentine's Dinner

Theater at Melody Mountain Ranch

welcomes

Richard Leigh, Larry Joe Taylor,

and Davin James

Join us for an intimate dinner and Songwriter show on Saturday, February 11th at the Dinner Theater inside the concert hall at Melody Mountain Ranch.
Doors open at 6:00 PM, dinner begins promptly at 7:00 PM , and will be followed by the acoustic Singer/Songwriter show.

See Website for additional information:

http://www.melodymountainranch.com/concert_series.htm

Melody Mountain Ranch

1290 Private Road 707

Stephenville, TX 76401

Call (254) 968-8505 for Tickets

Barbara Cloyd's Nashville Workshop - Feb 23rd

2012-01-10T08:12:00.001-08:00

Play for Publisher workshops give you a chance to learn from and be heard by established Nashville publishers. The next one is Feb 23 - 25 and the application deadline is Sunday Jan 15. Read details and how to apply at www.barbaracloyd.com/workshops.htm.

8th annual STEVE SESKIN Songcrafting Seminar Jan 28-29

2012-01-04T08:33:00.000-08:00

When:

Saturday Jan. 28

9 am - 5 pm

Sunday, Jan. 29

9 am - 5 pm

Where:

Saturday and Sunday at the Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, Tn.

Get more information click here now!

SEMINAR COST $345

click here!

Steve Seskin (8 #1 songs!) along with his songwriter and publisher guests present an amazing weekend of creative insight and business industry information.

During the weekend Steve will be teaching many aspects of songwriting such as finding inspiration, story development, crafting a memorable melody, rewriting. effective rhyming and collaboration.

Shane McAnally - hit songwriter (click link for more info)

current cuts by Kenny Chesney, Jake Owen, Miranda Lambert and Luke Bryan.

Stephanie Cox - over 20 yrs. experience in the music biz

• A&R at Capitol Records

• Publishing and song plugging at Little Big Town, Starstruck, MCA, Larga Vista and Monument Music.

• Has helped launch many a major songwriting career

• Currently at Kobalt Music in Nashville.

Austin Music Events - Dec.

2011-11-30T12:38:00.001-08:00

We are pleased to announce the DeliRadio.com Webinar! You don't want to miss this informative event introducing the latest music APP for touring artists! Wednesday, December 7, 2011, 6:00pm at the AMF Creative Media Center (1901 E. 51st Street (Stage 4), Austin, TX 78723).

Limited Seating! Please RSVP to RSVP@austinmusicfoundation.org to reserve your spot. Deli food (of course!) & beverages will be served!

Nashville Recording Workshop and Expo March 2 & 3

2011-11-30T12:35:00.001-08:00

On March 2 and 3, 2012, AES Nashville, in conjunction with the Audio Engineering Society, is offering the Nashville Recording Workshop and Expo (NRW+E) at the Rocketown non-profit youth outreach facility (601 4th Ave. South). The event is focused on getting the most from a personal-studio recording environment. »

November Events In Austin

2011-11-01T13:53:00.001-07:00

After The Recording Seminar!

Click here for more info!

WHAT:

Austin Music Foundation presents "After The Recording". Come join us for a conversation with industry professionals regarding the steps you'd take after your recording session is done. We'll be talking about CD mastering, duplication, CD artwork layout, online distribution, marketing and more!

WHEN:       Wednesday, November 16
                  6:00pm - 9:00pm

WHERE:      Austin Music Foundation Creative Media Center
                  1901 E. 51st Street - Stage 4
                  Austin, TX 78723

RSVP:         RSVP@austinmusicfoundation.org

CONTACT:  Lisa Fawcett
                  512.542.0077
                  lisa@austinmusicfoundation.org

SIMS Benefit Bash

On November 12, 2011, The SIMS Foundation will be hosting their annual Benefit Bash at the Austin Music Hall starring Grupo Fantasma with special guests. The evening will start with a special early performance byWill Taylor & Strings Attached and a silent auction. Tickets are $20 for general admission and $100 for VIP, which includes dinner and floor seating.

For more information go to: www.simsfoundation.org

TRCoA Singer/Songwriter Competition!

The Recording Conservatory of Austin is proud to announce the 1st Annual Singer/Songwriter Competition! Grand prizes for winners include: 75 FREE studio hours, rehearsal space, band photography package, digital distribution and web service package from Eye in the Sky Collective, Gear from Fender, Peavey, D'Addario, and much much more!

The top 4 finalists will showcase at Mohawk for:

- Matt Noveskey (bassist for alternative rock act Blue October)

- CJ Eiriksson (Grammy nominated Music Producer/Engineer/Mixer) - Raymond McGlamery (CEO of DARE Music Group and Milk)

The first step is to register your band for the contest! TRCoA will choose the 15 artists to compete to be one of the 4 artists, selected by fan voting, to play at the Mohawk showcase.

For more information go to: trcoa.com/ssc

MEOW Day at Momo's!

November 12th is MEOW Day at Momo's! An empowering one-day conference featuring four panel discussions with many of Austin's most influential women in music. All ages are invited to attend. Panels includeDo Music and Motherhood Mix?, Crossing the Line: When Fans Get Too Close, Building Community to Build a Career, and Staying Healthy on the Road.

For more information and to see the panel schedule click HERE!

"The Daytripper" Music

Austin's PBS station KLRU and "The Daytripper" are currently producing the third season of this Emmy-Award winning Texas travel show and want to include music from Texan artists.Created to inspire folks to get out and explore the Lone Star State, "The Daytripper" is all about destinations in Texas for Texans!

To submit music for consideration, artists should send an email tomusic@thedaytripper.com. Selected music will be included in upcoming episodes and will be given credit both in the episode and online. Further information about the show can be found at www.thedaytripper.com.

Tex-Mex Tardeadas at Plaza Saltillo

Bringing homegrown, Austin conjunto music to the community, Pachanga Music Festival and the City of Austin present a series of FREE music afternoon shows for the community at the newly renovated Plaza Saltillo on the East Side.

From 3-5pm on November 13th, 20th & 27th, Tex-Mex Tardeadas will take place at Plaza Saltillo (412 Comal Street, Austin, Tejas).

Dance Contest! Prizes! Food! Free! Gratis!

Click HERE for the schedule and more info!

Austin Music Memorial Induction
The 2011 Austin Music Memorial Induction Ceremony will be held on November 18, 7:00 p.m. at City Hall (301 W. 2nd St.) This is an annual event to honor Austin music industry professionals who have made lasting contributions to our community. The event is open to the public, so please bring your family and friends. Contact ashley.buchanan@austintexas.gov with questions.

Full Circle Music Gathering

2011-09-29T17:28:00.000-07:00

Rancho Frijole
hosting
The Full Circle Music Gathering
November 11, 12, 13
Mark your calenders for another great music and camping event!
More details coming soon!
Lin Been
214-457-3960

Austin Music Foundation Events in Sept.

2011-08-31T18:39:00.001-07:00

ROAD WARRIORS 101 Seminar

WHAT:

Road Warriors 101 is a straight-from-the-horses mouth informative look into making money on the road, hints on booking shows, and life on the road. Featuring guest speakers Texas legend Dale Watson, hard rock-gold recording artist Jason McMaster, and touring veterans, the Vallejo brothers. After a quick round of road stories and some funny, yet valuable advice on what and what not to do, the participants will engage in a situational Q&A based on each participants inquiry.

WHEN:       Wednesday, September 7
                  7:00 pm

WHERE:      Austin Music Foundation Creative Media Center
                  1901 E. 51st Street - Stage 4
                  Austin, TX 78723

RSVP:         RSVP@austinmusicfoundation.org

CONTACT:  Lisa Fawcett
                  512.542.0077
                  lisa@austinmusicfoundation.org

Girls Get Gigs!

Girls Get Gigs! is a 6-week music business workshop for women who want to take their music to the next level. Covering everything from marketing and publicity to social networking and dealing with band drama, Girls Get Gigs! will prepare you with the tools you need to navigate the maze of the music business.

The class meets consecutive Wednesday evenings, 7-8PM from September 21st to October 26th at Soma Vida, 1210 Rosewood Ave., Austin. Cost to attend is $150 and space is limited. Girls Get Gigs! is presented by Musicians for Equal Opportunities for Women (MEOW) and facilitated by Carla DeSantis Black, founder of ROCKRGRL Magazine.

To enroll visit meowonline.org/workshops
E-mail desantisblack@gmail.com or call 206.427.5343

NSAI Houston Events

2011-08-31T17:28:00.000-07:00

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13th, 7:00pm-10:00pm NSAI HOUSTON NORTH METRO WORKSHOP Facebook: NSAI HOUSTON NORTH METRO

Location: Dosey Doe, 25911 I-45 North, The Woodlands. Dosey Doe has a great menu and drink offerings, so come hungry and thirsty.

7:15-7:45 Program: Who’s Who in Songwriting- Connie Mims will introduce you to the songwriters behind the hits, their respective styles, and what you can learn from them. Bring something to write with, so you can do your own follow up research on your favorite songs, and which songwriters you’ll want to start stalking!

7:45-8:30 Group Critique: Bring at least 10 typed copies of lyrics to one song and either be able perform it live with your guitar/keyboard, etc., or use the house sound system’s playback system. We have time for 5-7 critiques. Sign up as you arrive. Those not getting in this month’s critiques will be placed on a rain check list for next month. There are typically one or two people on the rain check list, so be sure to arrive by 7:00pm to sign up!

8:30-10:00 Songwriters in the Round: Round 1 features Leslie Krafka, Aaron Wendt and Ken Mattox. Round 2 featuresConnie Mims, Mark Beets and The Renfrees.

*************************************

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 11th , 6:00pm-9:00pm NSAI CLEAR LAKE/SOUTH HOUSTON MONTHLY WORKSHOP

Location: Sudie’s Seafood House, 352 N. Gulf Freeway, League City

We're FILLING THE HOUSE.........and YOU GOTTA be there!!!!! SIGN UP EARLY, rounds will be completely filled. BRING YOUR FRIENDS and co-workers, they will love it, ..the food is great.

Contact Larry Whitehair for details and if you’d like to be in one of the performing rounds: llw@lyricbuilder.com or call Larry at 281.630.6599.

*************************************

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25th, 4:00pm-6:00pm NSAI SUNDAY SONGSWAP

Location: JP Hops House, 2317 S. Hwy 6, between Westheimer and I-10 West

Informal song circle followed by Open Mic at 6:00pm. Come share your songs, meet up and hang out with other songwriters.

Contact Songswap hosts Tina Allen or Mitch Tiffin for details: allen.tina30@yahoo.com or mtiffin@swbell.net

For Open Mic information, contact hostess TC Smythe at HOUSTON OPEN MIC’ERS on Facebook, or find updated information at www.houstonopenmic.com. Thanks to TC Smythe for diligently keeping this information current and accurate and running one of the best open mics in the region!

****************************************

THANKS FOR A SUCCESSFUL MEMBERSHIP DRIVE THIS SUMMER !

Thanks to all those new and renewed members, who have really bumped our membership numbers up these last few months for the greater Houston metropolitan area! We received some reward funding as a result, which pumped up our bank account, in order to bring more programs of interest. Let us know what you’d like to have as a future program in Houston!

*****************************************

NSAI HOUSTON CENTRAL CRITIQUE SESSIONS HAS A NEW HOME IN 2012

Thanks to HEB Central Market on Westheimer, we have now secured the 1^st Monday of each month in 2012 from 7:30 to 9:30pm for our small group critique sessions! In the interim, we’ll keep you posted if there are spontaneous centrally located meet-ups for the remainder of this year.

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NASHVILLE HAPPENINGS

Songposium Registration: NSAI Songposium will take place Sept 19-23, 2011. Classes and schedules are posted on the NSAI website.

NSAI / CMT Song Contest Launches Monday August 1st: The Grand Prize includes a mentoring session with music industry icon Charlie Daniels! In addition to that, a new lyric only category has been added. There is also a “lyrics only” category, for the first time, so if you’re a lyricist, this is a great opportunity to show your stuff!

**************************************

Please contact us if we can be of any assistance to you and your songwriting!

Country Music Revue, Sept 10

2011-08-31T17:24:00.000-07:00

Arlington Music Hall

224 N. Center Street,

Arlington, TX 76011

817-226-4400

Sulphur Springs police officer Monty Tipps and Nashville singer/songwriter James Cain are among the performers on the Country Music Revue Variety Show on September 10th.

Other performers include: Michael Hix, Mike Stewart, Wayne Reed, John Sharp, Burk Collins, Patsy Andrews,

Krista Bailey, Rachel Pride, Trey Williams, Kimberly Reann, The Tucker Family, and Holly Tucker.

James Cain moved to the Metroplex area from Nashville, Tennessee several months ago and is quickly developing a following. This is his 3rd time to perform on the CMR.

More about James Cain:

James Cain is a no nonsense, tell it like he sees it, country music songwriter and singer. He has been a staff songwriter for several publishing companies in Nashville, has appeared on Fox News singing to soldiers and their families as they were deploying to Iraq and has shipped countless supplies of albums and t-shirts to our troops in Iraq.

James can write a song at the drop of a guitar pick and has an extensive catalog to prove it. He's had songs recorded by George Jones, Willie Nelson and Jerry Lee Lewis and has had countless cuts by independent artists. Major artists who have had or have "holds" on his songs include the late great Chris Ledoux, Kenny Chesney, George Strait, Montgomery Gentry, John Michael Montgomery

But no one sings a James Cain song better than James himself. He delivers a style of hard-hitting, take-no-prisoners vocals that has made American country music loved around the world. He has been compared to Keith Whitley, Randy Travis and Trace Adkins, he is not a copy of anyone. He is very much his own man, whether writing or singing.

But, please, don't take my word for it. Check him out on CD Baby and or Youtube (See links below.) If you like what you hear come check him out on the Country Music Revue, on Saturday, September 10th at 7:30. Tickets $8 for children, $15 for adults. Call 817-226-4400 for reservations.

James Cain music on CD Baby:
http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/jamescain

"Live it for The Minute"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KpwjGwceD98

"Brayton Mountain"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfUP2kF3LQs

"Lifetime of Heaven"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppEr0c5V2Vk&feature=related

WEST COAST SONGWRITERS MUSIC CONFERENCE OPPORTUNITIES

2011-08-10T10:30:00.000-07:00

On Sept. 10 & 11th, at Foothill College in Southern California, the 31st Annual West Coast Songwriters Music Conference will hold court with numerous opportunities for artists to connect with industry players. With over 50 music industry professionals available, you're guaranteed two songs screened per day as well as the opportunity to network in a relaxed and supportive environment. The weekend will be filled with seminars, workshops, panels and One-on-Ones featuring: Mason Cooper, President Songrunner Entertainment; Evan Lowenstein, Founder & CEO of StageIt; Nationally recognized Sue Ennis of Heart; Glen Phillips from Toad the Wet Sprocket and Monica Benson, BOK Music Publishing, currently looking for great rock songs for James Durbin. See

westcoastsongwriters.org/conference,

or call 650-654-3966.

August and Beyond Events

2011-08-01T17:27:00.000-07:00

August 2 - August 3

iStandard Producer Showcase

Pittsburgh, PA

8:00 PM

WORKSHOPS

August 25

The Nashville Number System for Songwriters and Performers

with Odie Blackmon

Nashville, TN

7:00 PM

August 15

The ASCAP Foundation Christian Music Songwriters Workshop

Nashville, TN

August 26

The ASCAP Foundation Lester Sill Songwriters Workshop

Los Angeles, CA

COMPETITION

November 15

The ASCAP Foundation Rudolf Nissim Prize

September 21

International Songwriting Competition

Texas Independent Music Expo, Nov. 5

2011-07-14T11:25:00.000-07:00

Date: Saturday, Nov. 5, 2011 Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Location: Sons of Hermann Hall, Dallas, Texas
Cost: $10.00 per person

The Texas Independent Music Expo is about bringing the music community together under one roof! The 2010 expo was a success and we are looking forward to the 2011 event. T.I.M.E. 2011 will present great music provided by independent songwriters and musicians, combined with a songwriter competition, an educational forum and music-related exhibitors. Our mission is to promote music in all genres by helping independent artists gain exposure to and awareness of industry, performance, product, and strategic marketing opportunities.

PERFORMING SONGWRITER COMPETITION

The Texas Independent Music Expo Performing Songwriter Competition is now underway. To learn more about it and to submit your song (s), please go to www.texasindependentmusicexpo.com. This year you can upload your song, entry form, lyric sheet and pay thru PayPal, all through the website. Each song submitted is $10 each. Those who enter the competition will be considered to play at the event.

PERFORMANCES BY THE FINALISTS

EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS SPONSORED BY DSA

Recording by Jo Musik
Music in Film & TV
Copyright Laws
Publishing
Grammy CSI

SONG CRITIQUES BY DSA PANEL

Opportunities to have your song critiqued will be available for performing or non-performing songwriters at $10 each. Your song will be reviewed in person by a panel of industry professional judges.

The Quest for Harmony Gathering Memorial Day Weekend May 27th - 30th

2011-05-05T19:55:00.000-07:00

Fri. Arrive and set up camp... cook, mill around, play music!

Sat. Loitering, swimming, cooking, hanging out and having fun! Covered Wagon rides all day with Mike and Mark. Try their chuck wagon meat on a stick, too!6pm - 11pm... Very large electric open mic. Sign up to play! Sound will be furnished and set up for multiple players.

Sun. 3:30...The floating concert. The Rockin' Riviera with Blackie, WillBilly, and Tom. 6pm The huge Tribal Feast in the Green House Pavilion. Bring a dish to share, cook something there. A great time for camaraderie! Keep the jams going in the camps!

Mon. Noon till about 3pm The last day of the Gathering, you can come to this Lyric Tree and find an array of talented people singing songs and telling stories. And a very interested group of listeners. And a feeling that this is all so magical!

The Lyric Tree... An acoustic open stage in Little Forest. Sign up to play three songs. Say your farewells and get your hugs!

Admission to the Quest for Harmony Gathering is

$25.00 per person for the weekend, plus $5.00 a night for camping. Kids 5 years and under FREE, Kids 6 - 11 HALF PRICE with FREE camping

Electrical hookups are $15.00 per day. First come first serve. We are not an RV park. We have only six 30 amp plugs and some 20 amp plugs for smaller campers and pop-ups. Sorry no generators. If you have a big RV. Call ahead.

Lin 214-457-3960

Judy Collins appearing at the 40th Kerrville Folk Fest

2011-05-05T09:45:00.000-07:00

Nine miles South of the Texas Hill Country resort community of Kerrville, folks gather at Quiet Valley Ranch for Kerrville Folk Festival. The 2011 festival schedule includes Judy Collins, Asleep at the Wheel, Butch Hancock and Rebecca Loebe. The festival which will run for 18 straight days from Thursday, May 26 through Sunday, June 12, 2011 includes camping, campfire jam sessions, concerts and activities for kids, “Ballad Tree” song sharing sessions, Hill Country bike rides and canoe trips on the Guadalupe to Sunday Folk Song Services, Saturday Shabbat Services and much more.
A complete festival schedule, information and tickets can be found at www.kerrvillefolkfestival.org or by calling the festival office at (830) 257- 3600. Ticket prices range from $25 to $40 depending on the particular day, although you can save from 15% to 20% by purchasing your tickets prior to May 26. Campground Access and Parking Lot fees are included in the ticket price.

Events in Austin for April

2011-04-05T21:17:00.000-07:00

Master Class with Pat Pattison

Please join us as we welcome back Berklee College of Music professor Pat Pattison for his seventh songwriting seminar for AMF!

Friday, April 15
7:00 pm

SoundCheck Austin
1901 E. 51st St. (Stage 4 Gate 2) Austin, TX 78723

Pat's seminar will be a song critique session. Pat will select several songs from attendees and discuss how using elements such as point of view, structure, rhyming, symmetry, motion, contrast, and other tools can improve a song right before your eyes!

Attendees often tell us that the critique sessions are their favorite part of Pat's seminars. Just listen to what some past attendees have said:

"I was amazed to see how much a very small change to a lyric, a phrase, or the order of lyrics could completely change the song, adding poignancy and depth it didn't have before."

"Pat mentioned a way of appealing to your listener's physical senses to engage them. His advice on how to do this really helps me to understand how to make lyrics have more of an impact."

"It was incredibly insightful and interesting-- thank you so much for providing us with the opportunity to meet Pat and have him evaluate our songs."

"Using live music examples and Pat working interactively made for a very engaging session."

"It blows my mind every time!"

Spend an evening with AMF & Pat Pattison. To register, please emailkim@austinmusicfoundation.org. This event is FREE to attend.

Stick around for a meet-n-greet/reception immediately following Pat's seminar! Light snacks and libations provided.

Pat Pattison is a professor at Berklee College of Music, where he teaches Lyric Writing and Poetry. In addition to his three books, Writing Better Lyrics, The Essential Guide to Lyric Form and Structure, and The Essential Guide to Rhyming, Pat has developed three online lyric-writing courses for Berklee's online school. He has written over 30 articles for Home & Studio Recording Magazine and The Performing Songwriter.

Pat continues to present songwriting clinics across the US, Canada, and the UK. Several of his students have won Grammys, including John Mayer and Gillian Welch.

PAT WEEKEND SEMINAR IN AUSTIN

Pat is also conducting a weekend seminar April 16 & 17 in Austin. If you'd like more info, please visit Pat's website for all the details.

TRCoA Unsigned Artist Competition

In conjunction with Atlantic Records, Warner Chappell Records, MediaHorse Entertainment, Apple, The Guitar Center, Mc DSP, IK Multimedia, Sanjay Photography, and Stubb's, The Recording Conservatory of Austin is proud to announce the 5th annual TRCoA UNSIGNED ARTIST COMPETITION.

Prizes will include a live showcase at Stubb's for Atlantic, Warner Chappell, and MediaHorse Records, a free 10-song album recorded, mixed and mastered from Stinson Studios, photography packages by Sanjay Patel, Pro Tools LE system from The Guitar Center, and a variety of other prizes from Apple Computers Inc, Mc DSP, and IK Multimedia.

Click here http://www.trcoa.com/uac to find out more details and enter the contest. Artist submissions are accepted through April 17.

Getting Connected: A Business Resource Fair

This is a unique opportunity tomeet, network, and learn from local organizations that assist business owners. Whether starting out or looking to expand your existing business, Getting Connected® is a great opportunity!

Exhibitors will include business centered non-profit and networking organizations, government programs and agencies, area chambers of commerce, and community development corporations whose mission is to help business owners succeed.

Thursday, April 7
3:00 - 7:00 pm
Palmer Events Center
900 Barton Springs Road

Three sessions will run concurrently with the fair:

BizAid Business Orientation
Registration Required, click on class time to register
Presents information about City resources for businesses.
3:15 - 4:15 pm
5:45 - 6:45 pm

Motivational Session
No registration required
Be inspired by Austin entrepreneur Philip Berber, who built a successful online trading business, sold it to Charles Schwab and joined his wife in founding, A Glimmer of Hope Foundation. Because of the significant impact they've made, they were recently listed on Barron's top 10 global givers list!
4:30 - 5:30 pm

For more information visit our website or call 512.974.7800.

Deep Ellum Arts Festival & Sons of Hermann April 1-3, Dallas, TX

2011-04-01T08:22:00.000-07:00

DSA MEMBERS PERFORM AT ARTS FESTIVAL

Come on down this weekend. Here is a link to the performance schedule.

http://www.meifestivals.com/dea2011/dea2011_stageschedule.html

While you're there, visit the kick-off of the Sons of Hermann Hall 100th Celebration. Casino Night is Friday, and grab a Pancake Breakfast to start out your Saturday.

THIS WEEK WE KICK OFF

Sons Of Hermann Hall’s

100th Year Building Anniversary!

If you haven’t seen our Hall lately then come take a look at the beautiful interior restoration work that has been done!

April 1, 2011 thru July 9, 2011 – There will be many activities and events offered as part of the “100 Days of Celebration for 100 Years of Existence” of the Sons Of Hermann Hall building. Saturday, April 9, 2011 has been designated as the official celebration day. Plans include events, activities and special presentations beginning Friday, April 1^st, 2011. The one hundred days of celebration will end on Saturday, July 9^th, 2011. This extraordinary centennial celebration affords the Sons Of Hermann an opportunity to showcase our wonderful State of Texas and City of Dallas historically land marked building.

Friday, April 1; 2:00 pm – Premiere of “Remembering The Hall”; The Meeting Room, now the “historic archives work room”, will become an ongoing exhibit of significant Sons Of Hermann history including items from the personal collections of SOH members, items from the Hall’s archives dating back to the early 20^th century, and there will be many items representing the extensive music history of the Hall including performer T-shirts, Posters, Handbills, Press Releases, Tickets/Ticket Stubs, Newspaper Articles and Photos.

Friday, April 1; 5:00 pm – Midnight : “First Friday”. SOHH’s traditional first Friday of the month member, family, friends and general public gathering. “First Friday Live Music” in the Ole Bowling Alley offers local talent an opportunity to play in the historic Sons Of Hermann Hall. Peace Cowboy will be the featured musical act for April 1st.

Friday, April 1; 5:00 pm – Midnight: “Casino Night”. SOHH’s Building Centennial Celebration Committee will offer a night of Las Vegas style gaming in theOle Bowling Alley along with the First Friday Live Music.

Friday, April 1; 8:00 pm – Midnight: “The Smoke”. One of the SOHH’s regularly offered music shows will be happening in the upstairs Ballroom. The Smoke is Dallas’ premiere Mod/60s dance night. Deejays Marcos and Jason, along with a special guest, spin the best in Northern Soul, RnB, Freakbeat, and Reggae for your dancing pleasure.

Saturday, April 2; 8:00 am – 3:00 pm: “Pancake Breakfast & Lunch”; the SOHH Kitchen will be the place to grab a great breakfast as well as lunch and

a choice beverage during this kick-off weekend event.

Saturday, April 2; 10:00 am – 4:00 pm: “Shoppin’ @ The Sons” / Sons Of Hermann Member Rummage Sale; the Ole Bowling Alley will be the place to shop on these “Shoppin’ @ The Sons” Saturdays. The member and friends rummage sale will kick-off this reoccurring Second Saturday event.

Saturday, April 2; 8:00 pm – Midnight: Austin Lounge Lizards and The Hammerknockers

Sunday, April 3; 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm: Texas Dance Hall Music The Cutlers Traditional Honky Tonk and Western Swing music on Sundays in the Ballroom throughout the 100 Day Celebration. Watch the weekly news!

Friday, April 8; 8:00 pm – Midnight: Mike Snider Presents The Damnwells, Salim Nourallah & Harper Blynn in the upstairs Ballroom.

Saturday, April 9; 8:00 am – Midnight: “Official 100^th SOHH Building Birthday Celebration”; the day will include special presentations by SOH Grand Lodge Representatives, SOH Dallas Members and City of Dallas Officials. SOHH just received its State of Texas historical designation and a presentation will be made in anticipation of the actual marker arriving later this year. There will be activities through out the day and into the evening including music by the Frohsinn Band, Local Musicians and Shot Low Sheriff and The Cutlers will perform in the upstairs ballroom.

Many more special events will be offered during the one-hundred day celebration and will be announced on a weekly basis. Be on the watch! This high profile event will be advertised in print, on radio and through social media. The “100 Days of Celebration for 100 Years of Existence” will be featured on CBS 11 TV’s “Through the Lens” segment, Buddy Music Magazine, The Dallas Observer and more. The 100 Year Celebration will also receive sponsorship from Andrews Distributing and Ben E. Keith Distributions. You will hear Public Service Announcements on KNON Community Radio 89.3 FM .

July 2011 thru November 2011 – “Remembering “The Hall”; an ongoing exhibit of significant Sons Of Hermann history.

Every Week at the Sons of Hermann Hall

e Sons of Hermann Hall is for families - All ages are welcome.

Sunday - Texas Dance Hall Music - 4 - 7PM The Cutlers play every week through the hundreth celebration. Traditional Texas music and folk dance.

Monday & Friday - Happy Hour Live Music - 5PM Hosted by the Wanderin’ Chicken Wire Show, featuring local and regional talent.

Tuesday - Blues 'n' the Night - Lessons at 8:00 PM Catch some cool lessons and dancing. 8:00 PM until midnight, music by DJ.

Wednesday - Swing Dance - Lessons at 8:00 PM Come cut a rug at the weekly Swing Dances & Lessons every WED at the Sons. Lessons from 8:00 until 9:00 and practice until midnight.

Thursday - Electric Campfire Jam - 7:00 PM to Midnight

If you've ever been to the Kerrville Folk Festival you know how much fun a campfire can be. Open to all ages, skill levels, and styles. No sign up - just show up, grab a seat, and have fun in a relaxed, friendly, family environment.

Bellomy Bros. Attorney Issues Statement Regarding Britney Spears

2011-03-01T11:55:00.000-08:00

Bellamy Bros. Attorney Issues Statement Regarding Britney Spears

Today, attorney Christopher E. Schmidt, legal representation to country music's the Bellamy Brothers, released the following statement in response to pending legal action against pop star Britney Spears:

The Bellamy Brothers have been artists, in the true sense of the word, with over 50 hit songs; more than 20 of those songs reaching the No. 1 position in the country charts over the past 35 years. The music business has given them the rare opportunity to enjoy making a living writing and playing music all over the world. Even though David and Howard are some of the nicest and most down to earth guys you will ever meet, they are also smart and experienced businessmen. So naturally, David asked me for my legal opinion of whether or not the Britney Spears recent single "Hold It Against Me" infringed on the copyright of their song "If I said You Had A Beautiful Body Would You Hold It Against Me" that David wrote in 1979.

In my opinion, it is not necessarily the similarity of the titles that is of legal concern. This would be more of a trademark issue. Rather, the issue is whether or not the exact lyrics "would you hold it against me" are used in the same way in the hook of the song. It becomes somewhat uncanny if you simply double the beat of the Bellamy Brothers’ song and match it up with Britney's version. Literally thousands of fans for both artists have also taken notice. They are scratching their heads questioning whether or not Britney’s song "lifted" part of the song previously written by David Bellamy. But for me, the scale tips substantially in knowing that Dr. Luke not only co-produced Britney's song with Max Martin, but that Dr. Luke also co-wrote the song with Max Martin and others. This isn't the first time Max Martin and Dr. Luke have been accused of copyright infringement.

Dr. Luke was sued in 2007 for copyright infringement along with Avril Lavigne and her record label for “lifting” portions of Avril's hit song "Girlfriend." The suit subsequently settled in 2008. There is also a current Katy Perry song that features Snoop Dogg called "California Gurls" produced and co-written by Dr. Luke and Max Martin (among other writers, including Katy Perry) where The Beach Boys' record label has filed a diminutive claim against the writers and publishers of the song for credit and royalties. Dr. Luke was party to yet another copyright infringement suit in 2008 for the song "Feels Like Tonight" by Daughtry. Although this is not conclusive evidence that Dr. Luke intentionally lifted a phrase from a Bellamy Brothers song, it certainly shows a possible pattern and warrants a more serious look into the matter.

As a transactional attorney primarily focusing on managing my clients' careers and protecting their intellectual property, I had a duty to bring in the heavyweights to help us further evaluate the situation. I put a call in to Daniel Moskowitz who is a friend and colleague with the Nashville law firm King & Ballow. Daniel had mentioned to me before that one of the partners in the litigation section of his firm, Richard Busch, had won a multi-million dollar suit against Universal/Aftermath Records for Eminem. Richard also received a jury award of over four million dollars for his clients against Bad Boy Records. Most importantly, I recalled Daniel telling me that Richard recently established new precedence regarding copyright infringement in the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit when the court affirmed a ruling that copyright infringement may occur by the copying of a single common word such as "Dog," if the alleged infringer uses that word in the new composition in the same way as it was used in the original musical composition.

This past week, the Bellamy Brothers and I met with Richard Busch to engage his services and handle this matter appropriately. Richard has submitted the two songs to a renowned musicologist for evaluation and expert opinion. From here, it is just a matter of trying to work things out amicably with everyone involved.

Christopher E. Schmidt, Esq.
Nashville, TN

Fame Launches Online Series, "Songwriters of FAME"

2011-03-01T11:18:00.000-08:00

FAME Launches Online Series, “Songwriters of FAME"

February is packed with new endeavors from FAME Music including a new online video series called "Songwriters of FAME." The first episodes in the series feature FAME songwriting veteran, Brad Crisler, AND one lucky viewer could WIN a private thirty-minute mentoring session with FAME Publishing Creative Director Steve Williams just for watching and sharing. This month FAME also releases Don't Waste Your Pretty from “Nashville Star” Winner and FAME singer/songwriter, Angela Hacker. This revealing collection of songs was recorded at the historic FAME studios in Muscle Shoals, Ala. The album exudes the same soulful spirit that has become synonymous with the landmark Alabama studio.

Crisler is the first of FAME’s songwriters to be featured in "Songwriters of FAME," which will give viewers a behind the scenes look at the recording industry as well as the life of a songwriter. To win the mentoring session, viewers of the video can enter to receive a personalized URL to share the video with their friends. They can post the link on Facebook, Twitter, MySpace or email it to their friends. The person who gets the most people to watch “Songwriters of FAME” through that personal link will win! Visit, www.fame2.com/writers1/ to watch, share and win.

Filled with decades of personal stories and experiences, “Songwriters of FAME” will give fans and aspiring musicians a glimpse of the creative process by a pro! Future episodes will feature other FAME artists including: James LeBlanc, Jason Isbell, Gary Nichols, Dylan LeBlanc and more.

Crisler’s most recent cut, “Raymond,” by Warner Bros. recording artist Brett Eldredge, has entered the Top 30 and is climbing the charts. Crisler has cuts on new albums by Trace Adkins, Ronnie Dunn, Marty Raybon, Heartland, DHT and Sara Darling and has also had cuts by Tim McGraw, Kenny Chesney, Brooks & Dunn, Rascal Flatts and more. Crisler also continues to lend his production skills to other artists such as Christina Bell and Megan James as well as, FAME artists James Leblanc and Angela Hacker. Crisler's solo debut album "Chameleon Room" is out now.

Hacker's new album, Don’t Waste Your Pretty, was produced by Crisler and FAME’s Rodney Hall and Rick Hall. The reflective record starts off with the "woman done wrong" foot-stomper, “Nothin’ On My Pain.” It then slips into the soaring duet “I Ain’t Easy to Love” before settling into the catchy title track “Don’t Waste Your Pretty.” This spring, Hacker is hitting the road with FAME singer/songwriter James LeBlanc. She and LeBlanc collaborated on a ballad for Don’t Waste Your Pretty called “These Walls.”

Fans can receive a FREE download of Hacker's "I Ain’t Easy to Love" from her new album when they sign up to receive FAME Music's newsletter. Visit www.fame2.com to get the free download today.

For more information about "Songwriters of FAME," Brad Crisler, Angela Hacker and FAME Studios, please visit www.fame2.com.

FEBRUARY - MARCH EVENTS

2011-02-03T20:37:00.000-08:00

FEBRUARY 5TH CENTER, TX

Kasey Lansdale presents Songwriter 101 Workshop with Grammy Nominee recording artist and NSAI songwriter Roxie Dean.

Center, TX – Singer, songwriter Kasey Lansdale will host a three hour workshop designed to give performers and songwriters a unique learning experience opportunity to work with one of Nashville’s most respected singer/songwriters, Grammy Nominee, Roxie Dean.

Dean’s songwriting career includes a 2001 Nashville Songwriters Association International "Top 10 Songs That You Wish You’d Written" award for "Why They Call It Falling,” and a Grammy nomination for co-writing "When I think about Angels.”

Dean’s songwriting credits also include cuts by Reba McEntire, Tracy Lawrence, Chely Wright, Tammy Cochran, Jolie Edwards, and Tamara Walker to name a few.

Songwriters at all levels will benefit from the critiques and experience of working with Dean.

Topics would include but are not limited to:

· Song Critique

· Copyrights and Publishing

· Fine-tuning your Songwriting Craft

· Preparing your Songs for a Demo Recording

· Understanding what publishing companies are looking for

· The art of the “Co-Write”

· Song Structure, and when you can “break the rules”

Learn the tips and tricks of the professionals in the fast paced careers of singing and songwriting by attending the Stage Performance/Songwriter 101 workshop

at the Fannie Brown Booth Memorial Library, 619 Tenaha Street , Center TX (936) 598-5522. Advance reservations are recommended and workshop fees are $125 per person. For more information and to make reservations, please contact Kasey Lansdale at 936.552.4930 or info@kaseylansdale.com

All workshop attendants will receive a FREE pass into the acoustic performance of Roxie Dean and Kasey Lansdale for the evening of the Workshop.

All others interested in the performance only, please contact info@kaseylansdale.com

NEW MUSIC SEMINAR REGISTRANTS CAN WIN FREE GUITAR

If you're looking to get signed as an artist, this year's New Music Seminar invites you to come hear the presidents of the indie and major labels explain how. It's all happening in Los Angeles, Feb. 14-16th. Attendees will see twenty-two 18-minute presentations from the CEO's of the top companies talking about how they seek and sign new talent. Attendees can also visit one-on-one with 24 mentors at the NMS Mentoring Sessions or the Songwriting, Voice and Producer Workshops. As a special incentive, the NMS is giving away one beautiful Epiphone guitar inspired by John Lennon, retail value $1,666. Go to NewMusicSeminar.com and register. Save $50 and get the 2 for 1 discount by entering secret code NMSLASE2322 when you select the Partner's Discount tab on the registration page.

EIGHT-TRACK MUSEUM OPENS ITS DOORS

Celebrating the colossal "ka-chunk" of the once popular eight track tape experience is The Eight Track Museum in Dallas, TX, conceived and realized by visionary cultural provocateur and the world's first "formatician" Bucks Burnett. It will be open for visitors on a regular basis starting Wednesday, Feb. 16th. Check out a video tour of The Eight Track Museum: youtube.com/watch?v=UDueID5krPY.

Don't Miss The New Music Seminar!

Do you want to get signed or make it on your own? Come hear the Presidents of the Indies and Major Labels talk about what they are looking for and how that is changing in the new world! Do you want greater exposure and more money as an artist, manager, label or agent? See the 22-18 minute presentations from the CEOs of the leaders of the new music business show you how! Visit one on one with 24 mentors at the NMS Mentoring Sessions or the Songwriting, Voice and Producer Workshops. Find your next business partner! Network with over 80 of the top CEOs and luminaries speaking at the New Music Seminar in Los Angeles February 14-16, 2011.

For the complete information and to register, go to www.NewMusicSeminar.com.

Urban Music Perspectives:

From Gospel to Hip Hop

Join AMF & Another Option Productions and some of the most well-known names in Austin's urban music scene for a three-part primer on important issues facing DIY artists trying to make their way in the music business and jump start their careers.

All events are FREE to attend and open to the public. Please register to attend the legal seminar.

Ready for Radio

Every artist wants to hear their music on the air. Learn from industry insiders regarding the current state of terrestrial radio, how to gain the attention of station directors, and how to reach fans over the airwaves.

Tuesday, February 15 7:00 pm

Victory Grill

1104 East 11th St

Panelists:

Steve Savage - KAZI

Zannie K - 102.3 The Beat

Marion Nickerson - KAZI

Leah Manners - 91.7 KOOP (moderator)

Showtime: Where Creativity and Commerce Meet

Three Austin hip-hop artists discuss identifying a niche, developing an artist's brand, and how to make money from one's creative talent. Learn how professionalism, relationships and consistency are integral to being taken seriously and forging a successful career as an artist.

Monday, February 21

7:00 pm
Victory Grill
1104 East 11th St

Panelists:

Tee Double - artist

Ter'ell Shahid - artist

SaulPaul - artist

Marc Fort - Texas Music Office (moderator)

Protecting Your Most Valuable Asset - Your Art

Do you have a clear understanding of ownership rights when it comes to your music? Attorney Charles Medearis discusses legal issues surrounding copyright, sampling, and the producer-artist relationship.

Thursday, February 24

7:00 pm

Victory Grill

1104 East 11th St

To register for this legal seminar, please email kim@austinmusicfoundation.org. (No registration is needed for the other two events; just show up!)

Multi-Media Performances Close Out From Gospel to Hip Hop Series

The month-long Urban Music Perspectives: from Gospel to Hip Hop workshop series concludes with live performances at the historic George Washington Carver's Boyd Vance Theatre. The program will chronicle the evolution of gospel music to hip hop through a variety of multimedia presentations, dance and live performances by local Austin artists.

Saturday, February 25

7:00 pm

George Washington Carver Museum & Cultural Center

1165 Angelina Street

Boyd Vance Theatre

FREE to attend

Music has powered and inspired African-American culture through the best and worst of times; from the gritty passionate blues, the soul-lifting gospel of the church, the ardent improvisation of jazz to the harmonious dynamism of R & B and hip hop.

Urban music has inspired the world and opened people's eyes to the profound richness and history of African-Americans' beautiful culture. Gospel to Hip Hop in will move, groove and make you lose yourself within the music, and when you find yourself you will be inspired to make some music of your own.

Austin Chronicle Music Poll

Voting Deadline: Monday, January 31

Austin wouldn't be what it is without Austin music but Austin music would be what it is without Austin people. That is why you are encouraged to vote for your favorites in the 2010-2011 Music Poll!

Vote for your favorite band, song, album, musicians and more! Additionally, you can vote for who you think should be inducted into the Austin Music Hall of Fame!

Use the paper ballot in the current issue of the Chronicle or vote online at www.austinchronicle.com/musicpoll.

BMI Live

BMI LIVE PROGRAM ENABLES PERFORMING SONGWRITERS

TO REGISTER LIVE CONCERTS FOR ROYALTY PAYMENTS

BMI has launched BMI Live, a program enabling songwriters to register their concerts and set lists online to be considered for payment in live music venues, regardless of size.

To qualify, BMI performing songwriters need to enter their live musical performances on BMI's website, www.bmi.com. BMI will pay royalties to both writers and publishers via direct deposit in its June distribution for performances occurring from July 1 through December 31, 2010. Concert performances eligible for the June royalty distribution must be entered on www.bmi.com by March 31, 2011. The distribution from BMI Live will be made quarterly after this initial June 2011 launch.

The program is designed to ensure that performing songwriters in all stages of their careers receive payment for concerts in settings of all sizes, from coffee shops to football stadiums.

Available only online, BMI Live is an on-going program that allows songwriters to input up to six months of their performance data. Songwriters may input their tour information at their convenience for concerts from the previous six months and receive these royalty payments either quarterly or semi-annually. Both headliners and opening acts may input tour information, and the program is open to all BMI affiliates.

NSAI HOUSTON HAPPENINGS

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 13^TH, 6:00PM NSAI CLEAR LAKE/SOUTH HOUSTON MONTHLY WORKSHOP & ROUNDS

Location: Sudie’s Seafood House 352 N. Gulf Freeway, League City, TX 77573

Time: 6:00-9:00pm

This is our first time at Sudie’s, so we’re looking for all the talented songwriters in the NASA/South Houston area to come out and support our new venue partner. There will be a short program, group critique and performance rounds. Contact NSAI Coordinator Larry Whitehair at 281.630.6599 for more information and to grab a spot in one of the rounds!

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 19^TH, 1:00PM SPECIAL EVENT: “A SONGWRITERS’ SEMINAR” with KIM COPELAND & SUSAN TUCKER

Location: Habitat House 10037 Hazelhurst, Houston, TX 77080

Time: 1:00-5:00pm

Cost: $25.00 Reservations required. Limited seating.

Nashville publisher/author, Susan Tucker and independent producer Kim Copeland will be in Houston on Feb. 19 to conduct a songwriters’ business and recording seminar. Kim will talk not only about the quality of demos that the hit songwriters are pitching, but will give you ideas on how to get as close to pro quality as your budget will allow. And to give you an insider’s view on what A&R and producers look for in songs, Kim will also share her process in looking for the "right" songs for an artist’s album. Susan Tucker will share her insights and experiences in pitching songs to the Nashville market. She will answer your questions about songpluggers, pitching, demos and song contracts. Bring lots of note paper! They will bury you in information! Private consultations are available at $85/hour. Click here to reserve your seat, or to book a private consultation with these two talented women! (A separate event flyer with more information will be following this email).

Bios on Kim & Susan:

Kim Copeland is a highly respected and successful Nashville songwriter and producer. Her reputation as a gifted song troubleshooter has made her one of the most sought-after speakers, consultants and songwriting instructors in the country for organizations including TAXI, The Songwriters Connection and the Nashville Songwriters Association International. Her own songs have been recorded by artists in the U.S., Canada, and Europe, and she has released two albums of her own. Her education and background as a vocalist have helped her become one of the city's most respected vocal arrangers. Her long association with the cream of the Nashville music business has given her access to the city's best musicians, engineers and studios, and her projects continually draw accolades. A visible part of the Nashville scene, she continues to take part in writers' nights at local spots like the legendary Bluebird Cafe, and as part of showcases in other cities.

Susan Tucker is the force behind Sage House Music in Nashville, and has authored two books on songwriting, “The Soul of a Writer” and “The Secrets of Songwriting”. She partners with Kim Copeland Productions in the management and marketing behind emerging artist Rachel Williams and other talented songwriters and recording artists. She publishes a weekly e-zine called “The Songwriters Connection”.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 27^TH NSAI SUNDAY SONGSWAP & OPEN MIC

Location: JP Hops House 2317 S. Hwy 6, Houston, TX 77077

Time: 4:00-6:00pm Songswap- informal gathering of area songwriters to share their songs with fellow writers. Everyone, every genre is welcomed. Followed by Open Mic at 6:00pm. Facilitators include Tina Allen, Mitch Tiffin and Leslie Krafka. Contact Tina for more information at allen.tina30@yahoo.com

NASHVILLE HAPPENINGS

Bluebird Café Writer’s Night Audition (Feb. 13th) & Registration (Jan. 28th)

The next quarterly Bluebird Café Writers’ Night auditions will be held at 10:45 AM on Sunday, Feb 13, 2011 at The Bluebird Café.
To be eligible to audition you must either live within 100 miles of Nashville or be a member of NSAI.
To participate in the audition process you must register on line in advance. We will begin taking registrations at 11 AM on FRI, JAN 28.

We only accept the first 65 registrants. The list fills up very quickly. If you're not logged on right at 11 am you will probably not get through fast enough.

Log onto www.bluebirdcafe.com and click the "Play the Bluebird" link. Scroll down to the Sunday Writers Night section where you will find information about the audition and the link that takes you to the registration page. Once you have registered, you will receive an email confirmation and further information regarding the actual audition on Feb 13.

Spring Training Event April 1 & 2: Held at the Millennium Maxwell House Hotel, this 2-day interactive seminar combines the best of large- and small-group settings for writers of all ages and experience levels. Professional songwriter panels, powerhouse educational segments – not to mention the ever-popular publisher pitch sessions – are all designed to give you a crash course in the craft and business of songwriting. 2011 also marks the 1st year of Hitsville at Spring Training. NSAI has partnered with ole, one of the world's largest independent music publishers with offices in Toronto, Nashville and Los Angeles, to offer YOU the chance to leave Spring Training with a Single Song Publishing contract IN HAND! Every attendee is eligible to participate. This is going to be a great event!

Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival March 29-April 2

The 19th Annual Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival is set for March 29 – April 2, 2011 in Nashville, TN. For more information, go to http://tinpansouth.com

*Note: If you are interested in attending Spring Training and/or Tin Pan South this year, let us know. We’re trying to create some carpools of Texas writers wanting to soak it all in that week. If you’re looking to save some travel costs, let us know and we’ll hook you up with folks that are confirmed as going and may be interested in splitting gas money. Click here to put your name on the board as a willing traveler!

March 24-27 Songcrafting Seminars

presents: RIVERS RUTHERFORD

Rivers Rutherford will be once again holding a 3 day seminar

here in the Nashville area.

http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e3b2o1u8bb5c93c5&llr=pauirfdab

Imagine spending time with Rivers in a casual,relaxed and beautiful setting in the woods - while listening to him talk about what it means to be a great songwriter.

Hear him speak about his personal process

his thoughts on the business and where it's going and then

partake in co-writing sessions under his astute supervision -

for 3 solid days - while wining and dining on some of the best

italian food you could possibly imagine... all prepared for you

right here on the premises by Claudia and her staff. the open

kitchen becomes an equally creative element for you to both

experience and remember...

Rivers Rutherford...

After moving to Nashville in 1993, Rivers quickly found his place in the

world as an entertainer, studio guitar player and songwriter. In 1996,

Rivers signed with Universal Music Publishing and remains with the

company today. Artists, including Gretchen Wilson, Gary Allan, Faith

Hill, Tim McGraw, Carrie Underwood, Brooks & Dunn, Kenny

Chesney, Brad Paisley, LeAnn Rimes, Keith Urban, Trick Pony,

Blake Shelton, Deana Carter, Montgomery Gentry, Clay Davidson,

Jamie O'Neal and Andy Griggs have since recorded River's songs.

Rutherford claimed his first #1 hit, "Aint Nothin' 'Bout You", in 2001.

The song spent six weeks at number one and is to date the most

successful single ever recorded by Brooks & Dunn. Rutherford was

honored by ASCAP and received their Song of the Year Award in 2002.

Since the smash hit with Brooks & Dunn, Rivers has accomplished

TEN more #1 singles: Tim McGraw's "Real Good Man"; Montgomery

Gentry's first #1, "If You Ever Stop Loving Me", which he also produced;

Gretchen Wilson's "Homewrecker"; Brad Paisley's duet with Dolly

Parton, "When I Get Where I'm Going" (which has received both the

ACM and CMA nomination for Song of the Year), Kenny Chesney's

"Livin' In Fast Forward", Rodney Atkins "These Are My People" and

Trace Adkins "Ladies Love Country Boys".

ASCAP's Songwriter of the Year trophy for 2006 was shared between

Brett James and Rivers Rutherford.

GUITAR SHOW www.TXshows.com

Amigo Nashville Guitar Show 2011

Factory at Franklin/February 19-20

4 Amigos

Austin Guitar Show/SXSW Weekend

Austin Conv Ctr/March 18-19

4 Amigos

March 20th, Pickin For The Record at the Texas State Capitol.

Be a Part of the Largest Guitar Jam Ever

and an Afternoon of Pickin', BBQ, Record Breakin' & Troop Support on the last day of SXSW at the Capitol!

Let's Bring the Largest Guitar Ensemble Record Back to Texas Sunday March 20th at the Texas State Capitol and to Raise Funds for Soldiers and Vets that NEED A Hand.

Pickin' for the Record II - Sunday, March 20, 2011 a Great Day for Music at The Texas State Capitol in Austin on the last day of SXSW.

Click here for the video PSA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8NzJWh2w72I

BE A PART OF TEXAS MUSIC HISTORY AND REGISTER NOW!
http://voicesofagratefulnation.org/picker

The Pickin' Record Resides Now in Poland? Yes, Poland - So Grab Your Guitar and Register. We've recently discovered that our record has since been broken by 6,346 guitarists in Wroclaw, Poland. With the support and urging of Casey Monahan, the Director of the Governor's Texas Music Office, we've accepted the challenge to bring that record back home to Texas on Sunday, March 20th on the South Steps of the State Capitol! WE ARE CALLING FOR 8000 PICKERS.

The music starts at 1:00 until 4:00! The record breaking songs will be around 3p.m. Proceeds from your registration fees benefit Welcome Home Project, Soldiers Angels and the Yamaha Music and Wellness programs for returning veterans. For more information go to www.voicesofagratefulnation.org

44 Texas born-or-based acts receive a total of 55 GRAMMY nominations

2011-02-03T16:00:00.000-08:00

For a list of all nominees, please visit: http://www.grammy.com/nominees

The National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences
53rd Annual GRAMMY® Awards
Watch ON CBS 8PM ET/PT, FEBRUARY 13

For recordings released during the Eligibility Year September 1, 2009 through September 30, 2010.

Compiled by Casey Monahan, Stephen Ray, Amber LaFrance, Katelyn Orr, and Ambika Singh

Arcade Fire (The Woodlands)

-Album of the Year for The Suburbs (Merge)

-Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals for Ready to Start (Merge)

-Best Alternative Music Album for The Suburbs (Merge)

ARS Lyrica Houston (Houston)

-Best Opera Recording for Hasse: Marc' Antonio E Cleopatra (Dorian Sono Luminus)

Devendra Banhart (Houston)

-Best Recording Package for What Will We Be (with Jon Beasley) (Warner Bros.)

Joseph Banowetz (Denton)
-Best Instrumental Soloist(s) Performance (with Orchestra) for Kletzki: Piano Concerto In D Minor, Op. 22 (Naxos)

John Beasley (Denton)

-Best Jazz Instrumental Album, Individual of Group for Positootly! (Resonance)

Beyoncé (Houston)

-Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for Halo(Live) (Columbia/Music World Music)

-Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals for Telephone (with Lady GaGa) (Streamline/KonLive/Cherrytree/Interscope)

Ryan Bingham (Austin)

-Best Song Written For Motion Picture, Television Or Other Visual Media for The Weary Kind with T Bone Burnett (New West)

Carol Burnett (San Antonio)
-Best Spoken Word Album for This Time Together: Laughter and Reflection (Random House Audio)

T Bone Burnett (Fort Worth)
-Best Compilation Soundtrack Album For Motion Picture, Television Or Other Visual Media for Crazy Heart (New West)
-Best Song Written For Motion Picture, Television Or Other Visual Media for The Weary Kind with Ryan Bingham (New West)

Guy Clark (Monahans)
-Best Contemporary Folk Album for Somedays the Song Writes You (Dualtone)

James Cotton (Austin)
-Best Traditional Blues Album for Giant (Alligator)

David Crowder Band (Waco)
-Best Rock or Rap Gospel Album for Church Music (Sparrow/Sixsteprecords)

Steve Earle (San Antonio)
-Best Song Written For Motion Picture, Television Or Other Visual Media for This City (Geffen)

Roky Erickson with Okkervil River (Austin)

-Best Album Notes for True Love Cast Out All Evil (ANTI-)

Patty Griffin (Austin)

-Best Traditional Gospel Album for Downtown Church (Credential Recordings)

El Güero Y Su Banda Centenario (San Antonio)

-Best Banda Album for Enamórate De Mí (A.R.C. Discos)

Grupo Fantasma (Austin)
-Best Latin Rock, Alternative or Urban Album for El Existential (Nat Geo Music)

Ty Herndon (Dallas)

-Best Southern, Country or Bluegrass Gospel Album for Journey On (FUNL Music)

Sara Hickman (Austin)

- Best Spoken Word Album for Children Healthy Food For Thought: Good Enough To Eat

(Hickman contributed two selections) (East Coast Recording Company)

Buddy Holly (Lubbock)

-Best Historical Album for Not Fade Away: The Complete Studio Recordings and More (Ume/Hip-O Select/Geffen)

Intocable (Zapata)

-Best Norteño Album for Classic (Sony Music Latin)

Israel Houghton (Houston)

-Best Gospel Performance for You Hold My World (Integrity Music)

-Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album for Love God, Love People (Integrity Music)

Jewel (Stephenville)

-Best Female Country Vocal Performance for Satisfied (The Valory Music Company)

Norah Jones (Dallas)

-Best Female Vocal Pop Performance for Chasing Pirates (Blue Note)

Miranda Lambert (Lindale)

-Song of the Year for The House That Built Me (Columbia)

-Best Female Country Vocal Performance for The House That Built Me (Columbia)

-Best Country Collaboration with Vocals for Bad Angel (with Dierks Bentley and Jamey Johnson) (Capitol Records Nashville)

-Best Country Song for The House That Built Me (Columbia)

-Best Country Album for Revolution (Columbia)

Lecrae (Dallas)

-Best Rock or Rap Gospel Album for Rehab (Reach)

Little Joe Y La Familia (Temple)

-Best Tejano Album for Recuerdos (TDI)

Alan Lomax (Austin)

-Best Album Notes for Alan Lomax in Haiti: Recordings for the Library of Congress, 1936-1937 (Harte Recordings)
-Best Historical Album for Alan Lomax in Haiti: Recordings for the Library of Congress, 1936-1937 (Harte Recordings)

Johnny Mathis (Gilmer)

-Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album for Let It Be Me: Mathis in Nashville (Columbia)

Juan P. Moreno (Houston)

-Best Tejano Album for Sabes Bien (Q-Vo)

Willie Nelson (Austin)

-Best Americana Album for Country Music (Rounder)

Pinetop Perkins (Austin)

-Best Traditional Blues Album for Joined at the Hip (with Willie ‘Big Eyes’ Smith) (Telarc)

Joe Posada (San Antonio)

-Best Tejano Album for In The Pocket (Baby Dude)

LeAnn Rimes (Dallas)

-Best Female Country Vocal Performance for Swingin (Curb)

Poncho Sanchez (Laredo)

-Best Latin Jazz Album for Psychedelic Blues (Concord Picante)

Sunny Sauceda Y Todo Eso (San Antonio)

-Best Tejano Album for Homenaje A Mi Padre (Solstice)

Allen Shamblin (Austin)

-Song of the Year for The House That Built Me with Tom Douglas (Columbia)

-Best Country Song for The House That Built Me with Tom Douglas (Columbia)

Esperanza Spalding (Austin)

-Best New Artist

George Strait (San Antonio)

-Best Country Song for The Breath You Take (MCA Nashville)

Chris Tomlin (Austin)

-Best Gospel Song for Our God (Sparrow)

Tortilla Factory (Austin)

-Best Tejano Album for Cookin (Tortilla)

Jimmie Vaughan (Austin)

-Best Traditional Blues Album for Plays Blues Ballads and Favorites (Shout! Factory)

Cedric Watson et Bijou Créole (San Felipe)

-Best Zydeco or Cajun Music Album for Creole Moon: Live At The Blue Moon Saloon (Valcour)

Kirk Whalum (Houston)

-Best Pop Instrumental Album for Everything is Everything: The Music of Donny Hathaway (Rendezvous Music/Mack Avenue)

-Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for We’re Still Friends (with Musiq Soulchild) (Rendezvous Music/Mack Avenue)

-Best Gospel Performance for He’s Just Been That Good (with Lalah Hathaway) (Rendezvous Music/Mack Avenue)

-Best Gospel Song for It’s What I Do (with Lalah Hathaway) (Rendezvous Music/Mack Avenue)

Upcoming Events In Austin

2011-01-12T10:36:00.000-08:00

Booking on the Fly with Nancy Fly

Special Thanks to H-E-B

Join AMF and Nancy Fly and receive a backstage view of booking and touring from a professional whose agency represents artists such as Redd Volkaert, Bruce Robinson, Del Castillo, Carolyn Wonderland and Warren Hood.

Tuesday, January 18

7:00 pm

H-E-B Regional Support Center

6929 Airport Blvd., Suite 127

Nancy will discuss the real-life dynamics of how a booking agency works, how your band can attract the attention of one, the basics of tour planning, how to book like a pro, and other practical tipsfor the DIY artist.

If you want to have a more successful booking and touring experience, then make this Small Group Session a required stop on your itinerary.

To register, please email kim@austinmusicfoundation.org.

Annual Songwriter Symposium

For the 7^th year, the Austin Songwriters Group is hosting its annual songwriter symposium, a conference put together by songwriters for songwriters.

January 13-16, 2011 (Thursday-Sunday)

Omni South Park Hotel
Interstate-35 at Ben White Blvd.

This year's symposium will feature the return of many veteran songwriter past participants along with Brett James, two-time ASCAP Songwriter Of The Year, who has a hand in many of the top songs of the past several years including hits for Taylor Swift, Rascal Flatts, Tim McGraw, Kenny Chesney, Carrie Underwood and Jason Aldean.

The ASG Symposium will also have representatives from all three performance rights organizations (ASCAP, BMI & SESAC) in attendance. Bart Herbison, the Executive Director of the Nashville Songwriter's Association International (NSAI) will be on hand to report on legislative issues regarding pending songwriter copyright issues.

In addition to a full slate of seminars and workshops, the annual symposium features the very popular song pitch sessions, showcases and all night pickin' circles.

For a complete schedule of events, speakers, and to register, please visitAustin Songwriters Group.

Upcoming Events

Blues at the Crossroads

How do you throw a 100th birthday bash for the most influential bluesman that ever lived? If you're Big Head Todd and The Monsters, you gather some of the greatest living blues musicians and record 100 Years of Robert Johnson, a stirring new tribute album featuring potent interpretations of some of the most vital and durable music of the past century.

Friday, February 4
8:00 pm

Paramount Theater

Big Head Blues Club, as the ad hoc ensemble is calling itself, features, in addition to the Colorado-based quartet-guitarist and vocalist Todd Park Mohr, bassist Rob Squires, drummer Brian Nevin and keyboardist Jeremy Lawton-special guests, legends and keepers of blues flame Hubert Sumlin, Cedric Burnside and Lightnin' Malcolm.

Robert Johnson's story is the stuff of myth and legend alike. Born in Mississippi in 1911, Johnson recorded only 29 songs, all during the years 1936 and '37. His unique guitar style and haunting vocal phrasing, and the evocative, often mysterious nature of his lyrics, made him a popular artist during his short time in the spotlight and has continued to intrigue since. A persistent tale that, as a young man, Johnson sold his soul to the Devil in order to become a more proficient musician has been attached to his biography since his untimely death at age 27.

Texas Guitar Show -

2010-10-12T09:23:00.001-07:00

Oct 15 & 16th

Arlington Convention Center

Arlington, Tx

Hit Songwriter and Grammy Winning Producer Plays Poor David's in Dallas

2010-10-12T09:14:00.000-07:00

Friday Oct. 15 9:00 pm

Gary Nicholson “opens” for Whitey Johnson Band (featuring Anson Funderburgh)

Poor David's Pub1313 South Lamar St.
Dallas, TX 75215
214-565-1295

www.poordavidspub.com

Music Buzz Free Lectures this Fall at Allen Library

2010-10-05T14:58:00.000-07:00

“TRENDS in the BUSINESS SIDE OF MUSIC”

WHERE: ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY / 300 North Allen Drive / Allen, TX

WHEN: Every Monday in October @ 7:00 pm

COST: FREE

SPONSOR: City of Allen “Bach to Books” & Collin County College

Bach to Books joins with Collin College to present a series of Monday night programs on “Trends in the Business side of the Music Industry”. This series will provide legal, marketing, and technical considerations for recording and distributing music. This program is free and no reservations are required

October 4 - Craig Crafton - "Music and Law: Recent Case Studies"
October 11 - Nick Wheeler - iPad/iPhone Music App Development
October 18 - Jason Martin* - Radio Production Today: a look at the production's inner workings of a top radio show
October 25 - Chris Lund* - Electronic Music Composition from a DJ's perspective.

*Collin College AAS Commercial Music Graduate

About Music Buzz: The Collin College Music Buzz series is a collaborative effort by the Commercial Music Program and the Allen Public Library. Each Monday at 7 p.m. the Library hosts a different speaker or performing group focusing on an aspect of the music industry. Now in its second year, the series has featured performances and presentations on artist and venue management, studio musician technique, electronic music technology, studio design and acoustics, and many more. Please join us for an opportunity to network with area audio and music professionals as well as enjoy the excellent presentations.

For information, call Tom Keener at 214-509-4911.

http://www.cityofallen.org/departments/library/about/

Dave Isaacs Guitar Workshop Saturday Oct. 23

2010-10-05T14:55:00.000-07:00

FWSA will be sponsoring a guitar workshop for songwriters, with Nasville's Dave Isaacs, on Saturday, October 23rd, 10 AM - 3 PM at St. Ann Catholic Church in Burleson. We invite any songwriters or guitarists to attend.

www.fwsa.com/calendar.html

If you wish to register in advance, and take advantage of the early registration discount ($50 for early registration, $60 at the door), you may do so by sending an email to this address (newsletter@fortworthsongwriters.com) and mailing your registration fee to Guitar Workshop, FWSA, PO Box 162443, Fort Worth, TX 76161. You may also register at the FWSA Open Mic at Texas Grill, either of the next 2 Mondays.

In addition to being a songwriter, and having released 7 CDs as an independent artist, covering country-rock, jazz, folk, and blues, Dave is a highly sought-after guitar instructor in Nashville, teaching privately and at Tennessee State University in Nashville. He holds degrees in guitar performance from New York's Manhattan School of Music and the City University of New York.http://www.fwsa.com/calendar.html

Music Buzz Free Lectures this Fall at Allen Library

2010-08-28T19:35:00.000-07:00

“TRENDS in the BUSINESS SIDE OF MUSIC”

WHERE: ALLEN PUBLIC LIBRARY / 300 North Allen Drive / Allen, TX
WHEN: Every Monday in September @ 7:00 pm
COST: FREE
SPONSOR: City of Allen “Bach to Books” & Collin County College

Bach to Books joins with Collin College to present a series of Monday night programs on “Trends in the Business side of the Music Industry”. This series will provide legal, marketing, and technical considerations for recording and distributing music. This program is free and no reservations are required

MONDAY / September 13 / 7:00 pm
Benefits and Challenges of Studio Musicians: At 7 p.m. September 13, Susan Hanlon and the Friday Afternoon Collin Recording Ensemble present their music and discuss the Benefits and Challenges of Studio Musicians. Teaching commercial voice at Collin College as well as offering private lessons. Susan is completing a MA in music at the University of North Texas. A soloist as well as an ensemble member, she has sung at many weddings, private events, and prestigious jazz festivals around the country. Susan’s career highlightshave included performing at the IAJE conference in Toronto with UNT Jazz Singers and The Addison Jazz Festival as opening ensemble for New York Voices.

MONDAY / September 20 / 7:00 pm
Develop your Web Presence: Christopher Davis discusses Develop your Web Presence at 7 p.m., September 20. Christopher holds a bachelor of music from Drake and earned a masters degree from Austin Peavy State University. He has performed in master classes for world renowned artists such as Odair Assad and Christopher Parkening. Christopher’s performance experiences include solo classical guitar performances and work with rock, jazz, and Christian groups. In addition, Christopher also maintains and writes for the blog The Classical Guitar.

MONDAY / September 27 / 7:00 pm
Issues with Live Electronic Music: The members of 755 will cover Issues with Live Electronic Music as well as present live music, 7 p.m. September 27. 755 is a music collective centered around Russ Callison & David Siu. Started in Collin County in Spring 2010, the duo brings in a variety of collaborations and influences with a focus on dance genres.

For information, call Tom Keener at 214-509-4911.
http://www.cityofallen.org/departments/library/about/

Texas Music Mini-Conference 2 - Saturday Sept 11

2010-08-20T13:26:00.000-07:00

How to Capture Lightning: Texas Music Conference 2

Saturday, September 11, 10 am-1 pm

Dallas Public Library, J. Erik Jonsson Central Library

Bradshaw Gallery, Fine Arts Division (4^th Floor)

1515 Young Street, Dallas, TX 75201

10:00-10:15 Registration

10:15-10:30 Introductions and Welcome

10:30-11:15 Dancing about Architecture: Texas Music in Books and Articles

Jean Boyd

http://www.baylor.edu/music/history/index.php?id=46825

Fort Worth native Jean Boyd is a Professor of Music History and American Music Studies in the Baylor University School of Music. Her research area, western swing, has to date resulted in two published books, two articles, various professional presentations, and a third book forthcoming in spring 2011.

Craig Hopkins

http://www.stevieray.com

Craig Hopkins is the author of Stevie Ray Vaughan: Day By Day, Night After Night, a comprehensive 432-page, 970-illustration chronicle of the legendary guitarist's life and career.

Tim Schuller

Tim Schuller (b. Cleveland, 1949) has for over a third of a century written music-related articles for magazines and newsletters. He has prioritized coverage of senior members of Texas' blues, jazz, and R&B communities.

Laurie Shulman

http://classicalprogramnotes.com

Laurie Shulman is a freelance writer on music and nationally known program annotator based in Dallas. A popular pre-concert speaker and guest lecturer, she is the author of The Meyerson Symphony Center: Building a Dream. She holds a Ph.D. in musicology from Cornell University.

Moderator: Carol Reynolds

http://www.professorcarol.com

Dr. Reynolds was Professor of Music History for 21 years at Southern Methodist University, and has long been a popular speaker for organizations such as The Dallas Symphony, The Dallas Wind Symphony, the Dallas and Fort Worth Operas, and the Van Cliburn Foundation. She now creates cross-discipline curricula in the Fine Arts, including a new multimedia course Discovering Music: 300 Years of Interaction in Western Music, Arts, History & Culture. She is presently working on a new curriculum dedicated to American music and culture, in which Texas music will play a significant role.

11:15-12:00 Worth a Thousand Words: Texas Music in Documentary Films

Mark Nobles

http://www.teen-a-go-go.com

http://www.trinityrivermusic.net

Mark has written, produced, and directed children’s educational programming, documentaries, and commercials. He is currently involved with two music documentaries: Teen-A-Go-Go and You Must Be Weird . . . Or You Wouldn’t Be Here.

Tracy Ready

http://www.traceproductions.com/index.php

Tracy Ready, owner of Trace Productions, is a Director of Photography, Writer and Producer based in Dallas Texas. He is also a songwriter and vocalist with a debut studio CD release set for December 2010. His blog Trace - TV - Film - Music Media is at www.tracetv.tv.

Denisa Spruell

Denisa Spruell studied radio, television, and film production at Northlake Community College. She has created documentary films on topics of contemporary interest such as rape and the impact of AIDS on women’s lives. Her lifelong involvement with music and her “long and storied” affiliation with Buddy Magazine have resulted in her current project, a documentary about the Texas music industry.

Rob Tranchin

http://www.kera.org/tv/productions/southdallaspop

Rob Tranchin is a senior producer, writer, and director of documentaries and outreach specials for KERA, where he also serves as executive producer for content. His productions on local arts topics include Sweet Tornado: Margo Jones and the American Theater (co-written and produced with Kay Cattarulla), and South Dallas Pop: When Funk Was King. In 1999, Tranchin won a national Emmy Award, and he was nominated for a second Emmy Award in 2000. He is a graduate of Harvard College and New York University.

Moderator: Terry Fansler

http://www3.dbu.edu/fine_arts/Faculty/MusicFaculty-TerryFansler.asp

TerryFansler is Associate Professor of Music and Director of Studies in Music Business at Dallas Baptist University. In addition to his academic career, he spent thirteen years performing on stage throughout the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean. He also co-produced, wrote and co-hosted a magazine-style television program about small business that aired nationwide weekly on PBS.

12:00-12:15 Break

12:15-1:00 You Don't Know What You've Got Till It's Gone: Texas Music Archives in Libraries and Museums

Sharon Herfurth

http://www.texasmusicmuseum.org

Sharon Herfurth is a former Vice President and current board member with the Texas Music Museum in Austin, where she has been actively involved in curating exhibits, planning programming, and creating documentation for museum events. She is a branch manager with the Austin Public Library and a former music librarian with the Dallas Public Library.

Thomas Kreason

http://www.texasmusiciansmuseum.com

Prior to becoming director of the Texas Musicians Museum, Thomas Kreason spent about twenty years in music staging and promotion. From there he worked for about three years as a producer of live shows for Hard Rock Cafes in New York, Boston, Washington, D.C., and Dallas, then for a short time at Memphis' famed Sun Studios. Those latter experiences pointed out the need to collect and preserve the rapidly disappearing memorabilia of popular music history. It is largely through his own collecting efforts that he eventually came to create and operate the TMM in Hillsboro.

Morris Martin

http://www.library.unt.edu/music/music-library

Morris Martin is Head Music Librarian for the University of North Texas Music Library and Audio Center, part of the Willis Library on the Denton campus. He holds advanced music degrees from UNT and a masters degree in library science from the University of Illinois. Since 1972 he has also served as part-time Minister of Music at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Denton.

Alisa Rata Stutzbach

http://smu.edu/cul/hamon

Alisa Rata Stutzbach is the Director of the Hamon Arts Library at Southern Methodist University, which includes the Bywaters Special Collections and the G. William Jones Film and Video Collection. Her professional work in MLA and the Society for American Music has focused on the usability, accessibility, and promotion of research resources. Additionally, Alisa is an active Baroque violist in regional and national period instrument ensembles.

Moderator: Bob Reitz

http://www.harbinscoutmuseum.org

Bob Reitz has curated a wide variety of subjects for the Dallas Library, including exhibits on Beat Generation writings, the American Hobo and Dallas Blues of the 1920's and 30's. He is the Curator of the Harbin Boy Scout Museum at Camp Wisdom in Dallas.

North Texas Musicians Meetings!- for August

2010-08-04T15:04:00.000-07:00

Saturday, August 14, 11:30 a.m.Tim Cissell tcissell@wt.net
Potbelly Sandwich Shop
101 W. Campbell
972-235-5848http://www.potbelly.com/Home/Default.aspx
SW corner of Campbell Road and I-75 Central Expressway, just west of the Starbucks and facing Campbell Road.

August 19, 4:00-7:00 p.m.Gregory Isaacs gregorysullivanisaacs@yahoo.com
Opening Bell Coffee
South Side on Lamar
1409 S. Lamar Street
Basement Retail #012
Dallas, TX 75215
214-565-0383http://www.openingbellcoffee.com

In the basement of the South Side on Lamar Lofts (the Historic Sears Roebuck Building) just south of I-30 between the Dallas Convention Center and the Jack Evans Police Headquarters. Parking is free in the black gated Retail Parking Lot. Take a right from the light at Lamar onto Belleview.

Join North Texas Musicians Meetings on Facebook!
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1207204053#!/group.php?gid=286982622041

or http://tinyurl.com/2degso9

Durango Song Meet & Greet in LA

2010-08-04T14:58:00.001-07:00

Meet and Greet With Us NEXT WEEK in LA!

Hey Everybody, Jim Attebery here with some great news for our many friends in Southern California! NEXT MONDAY, August 9th, we'll be having a Meet and Greet at the home of one of our great and very talented friends, Scott Monahan. If Scott's name is familiar to you it's probably because last year at Santa Ynez, scott teamed up with mrJack and Amanda Williams to make this little video commercial for the Expo called The Muse." Scott and his wife Janis are long-time friends and supporters of the Expo and have a beautiful home in the heart of the North Hollywood, Burbank, Woodland Hills area.
Please come and bring a friend or two! We had a blast at our series of Meet and Greets last month in and around Denver.
When: Monday, August 9th, 7pm
Where: Monahan residence at 22855 Califa St in Woodland Hills 91364. (Get off the 101 - Ventura Freeway - at Shoup Ave., make a right on Fallbrook and a left at Califa.
Local buddy Jimmy Muffin, and others who live nearby, will be attending and helping to organize the event.
Please come, you'll be glad you did! FUN IS EXPECTED!

California Guitar Show Aug 7 and 8

2010-08-04T14:56:00.000-07:00

On August 7 & 8, the Los Angeles area show comes to life at the fabulous Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. Santa Monica is home to many musical super stars, as well as affluent professional performers. Lots of celebrities have shown up at this event over the years, and they do spend money. Several of our best-attended shows have been in Santa Monica, and our last event there in 2009 sold out to the walls. There is still booth space available at both shows. Just fill out the linked forms and fax or mail them back to ensure good placement.

Dallas Library Summer Concert Series

2010-08-04T14:53:00.001-07:00

The Dallas Public Library’s Fine Arts Division is pleased to announce its first Summer Concert Series for August and early September of this year. The programs will be presented on Sundays at 3:00 p.m. in the first floor auditorium of the J. Erik Jonsson Central Library. Driving directions to the Central Library can be found on-line at: http://dallaslibrary2.org/directions-central.php. Help using public transportation to the library is available here: http://dallaslibrary2.org/directions-publicTransit.php. All programs are free and open to the public.

August 15

Janie Bergamasco, soprano

Mark Metcalf, accompanist

Janie Bergamasco is a senior at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth. She will graduate in December with a double major in music and Spanish. She has studied with Barbara Hill-Moore, Rose Taylor, and David Grogan, and is currently studying with Colleen Mallette. Her program will include works by Mozart, Handel, Faure, Gounod, Quilter, and Pergolesi.

August 22

Fenia Chang, piano (http://feniachang.com)

Shu Lee, violin

Steinway artist Fenia Chang’s career as a concert pianist has seen her performing in a variety of venues in Asia, Europe, and across the United States. In addition to her performance activities, the multiple award winner teaches private lessons, master classes, and workshops, is and active collaborative pianist, and is the founder and artistic director of the Asian American Performing Arts Association. She will perform solo works by Chopin and Granados.

Shu Lee is a member of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. He is a recipient of numerous awards, including the prestigious Diploma d'Honour at the Maria Canals International competition in Barcelona, Spain. He frequently appears in recital, concerto appearance and chamber music performances throughout the United States, China, Europe and Mexico. He will perform Ernst’s Etude VI, "The Last Rose of the Summer."

Together the two will play Beethoven’s Sonata for Violin and Piano, No. 5 (“Spring"), op. 24.

August 29

Carolyn Lee Jones, soprano (http://www.carolynleejones.com)

Roland Elbert, accompanist

Carolyn Lee Jones is a jazz vocalist whose distinctive repertoire includes popular American standards, Broadway show tunes, jazz, and contemporary “retro pop” with a jazz sensibility. Her latest CD, Bon Appétit!, has garnered excellent reviews. Her program here, "Songs From My Mother's Piano Bench," will feature both familiar and lesser-known jazz vocal selections from the 1930s, ‘40s, and 50’s

September 5

Madelyn Brene Fortner, soprano (http://www.madelynbrene.com)

Jason Smith, accompanist

Madelyn Fortner is both a singer and an actress, whose "Musically Madelyn Concert Series" includes opera, jazz, musical theatre, and oratorio. She has performed various roles in the U.S. and in European cities. She is a graduate of Southern Methodist University and a student of Nancy Elledge. Her program at the library will include songs by Fauré, jazz standards, and spirituals arranged by Moses Hogan.

September 12

HsiaoLing Chang, piano

Chie Watanabe, piano

Viet Chuong Vu, violin

NanCheng Chen, cello

In May 2010, HsiaoLing Chang received her Doctor of Musical Arts degree in piano performance from the University of North Texas, where she studied with Gustavo Romero. She has served as a faculty member at the Music Institute of North Texas since 2009. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Taiwan recently invited her to perform in New York.

Chie Watanabe is currently a candidate for a Doctor of Musical Arts degree at the University of North Texas, where she studies with Gustavo Romero. She holds a Master of Music degree from the Manhattan School of Music. She has won many prizes and awards in Japan and the United States including the 2009 Virginia Warning International Piano Competition.

Nan-Cheng Chen is a student at the Juilliard School of Music studying with renowned teacher and cellist of the Juilliard String Quartet, Mr. Joel Krosnick. He has won a number of awards, and most recently first place in the Queens Symphony’s Young Soloist Competition. In April, he played in the Juilliard Orchestra under the baton of conductor Leonard Slatkin and gave a solo recital at Juilliard’s Paul Hall.

Piano Duet team Watanabe and Chang will perform music by Bach, Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, and Ravel. Then Chang,Vu, and Chen will conclude the program with piano trios by Shostakovich and Schoenfield.

Programs may be subject to change without notice. To confirm information on a specific performance on the day of the program, please call the Fine Arts Division at 214-670-1643.

Austin Songwriters Workshops for August 2010

2010-08-04T14:46:00.001-07:00

Just a little reminder that David Halley is teaching a workshop on songwriting and guitar for songwriters. The cost is only ten dollars for members and fifteen for non members! It is a 90 minute class. Starts at 7. No checks please. Sign up at the door. 3800 Woodbury 78704

Sat Aug 14 Bobby Arnold who has been recording the best artists in the business since the 80's is having two recording workshops. He has recorded Roger Miller to Julio Iglesias. He is an amazing teacher. This is for home recording. If you are a singer/songwriter this is a great workshop. Bobby will be bringing his gear and actually recording. This is a great learning opportunity. Joining Bobby will be Joe Manuel. Joe has worked in the studio as a side man with some of the greats. He is also a producer. He opened Merle Haggards shows last year. He played lead guitar with Merle for years and recorded many times with him. He is part of George Strait's Ace in the Hole band. Plays with Randy Travis and just went out with Lee Ann Womack last week. He writes great songs, plays amazing guitar and sings like you won't believe. Come and pick the brains of two great teachers.... you can sign up on the web page. If you are a member the cost of the class is 30 dollars for one and 50 for both. If you are a non member it is 50 dollars for each class and 75 for two. Don't miss this!!

Daniel Lee is coming Aug 21st. Plan to be with us that weekend. More to come on this workshop. He will also be available for privates for anyone that has a song ready to pitch. Daniel is with Ten Ten Music. Mark your calendar.

That's it for now. Don't forget we have open mic on Monday nights at seven. BYOB ... Tuesday night is song critique. Weds are for David Halley!

Write On!

Peace

leeduffy@austinsongwritersgroup.com

512 698 4237

SWARFA WANTS YOU

2010-06-27T11:13:00.000-07:00

Accepting Official Showcase Submissions: June 1 through Aug 1

Southwest Regional Folk Alliance

Sept. 30 - Oct 3, 2010

Austin, Tx

http://www.swrfa.com

830 257 - 3600

Acoustic Music Camp

2010-06-14T10:27:00.000-07:00

http://acousticmusiccamp.com/

FOUR AMAZING SONGWRITING RETREATS AT REO RAFTING RESOR

2010-06-10T09:10:00.000-07:00

Join songwriters from around the world this summer in beautiful British Columbia (http://www.reorafting.com)!

Each of these four unique retreats will help you improve your songwriting and
take your songs to the next level. Special Muses Muse Offer
below.

EXPLORING THE GUITAR FOR SONGWRITERS - July 9-11, 2010

This weekend intensive features Mark Simos, the associate professor of songwriting for the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, Mass. Mark's retreat is aimed at the intermediate to advanced guitar player who may find themselves at the place where their guitar skills hold them back from writing better songs.
http://www.reorafting.com/site/retreats/exploring-guitar.html

REO SONGWRITING RETREAT - July 11-16, 2010

REO's 11th annual songwriting retreat features world-class instructors and mentors. Bonnie Hayes is a Grammy-nominated songwriter with cuts by Bonnie Raitt, Bette Midler, Robert Cray,
David Crosby and Cher!

Pat Pattison and Mark Simos are both professors at Berklee College of Music, one of the most

prestigious music schools in the USA. Renee Grant-Williams is a vocal instructor for many of today’s finest singers including Miley Cryrus, Dixie Chicks, Faith Hill, Christina Aguilera and
Tim McGraw. With daily workshop sessions, master classes, song critiques, open mic reviews, private one-on-one sessions with an instructor, and a free optional rafting adventure, this retreat
will be an experience not to be missed. See note from Renee Grant-Williams below.
http://www.reorafting.com/site/retreats/songwriter_retreat.html

SONG CAMP WITH TOM KIMMEL (WRITING WHOLE SONGS) - August 8-10,
2010

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Tom Kimmel will teach user-friendly ways of developing songs through all stages of development and getting them to completion! Tom's songs have been featured on albums by major artists including Johnny Cash, Joe Cocker, Randy Travis and soundtracks for Twins, Runaway Bride and Dawson's Creek. Songwriters to share their ongoing projects and get valuable feedback from other writers in addition to participating in songwriting sessions covering lyrics, melody, the art of collaboration and other writing techniques.
http://www.reorafting.com/site/retreats/writing_whole_songs.html

HOW SONGWRITING REALLY WORKS - August 11-13, 2010

How Songwriting Really Works: Techniques and Secrets of the World's Greatest Songwriters" is designed for songwriters willing to devote themselves to writing great songs. Wayne Chase, the
author of How Songwriting Really Works, is a music and songwriting scholar with over 20 years in the music industry. Wayne is one of the world's leading experts on the emotional, or connotative meaning, of words and language. Join Wayne for an intensive songwriting retreat that is guaranteed to help you write great, memorable and emotionally meaningful songs.
http://www.reorafting.com/site/retreats/how_music_really_works-_l
yrics_-_music.html

SPECIAL OFFER:
To help songwriters attend, REO is offering early bird rates to save $100 off any of the four retreats if you book now! Call 1-800-736-7238. Seats are limited. Offer ends June 21st.

RETREAT ORGANIZER:
Bryan Fogelman (bryan@reorafting.com). Contact Bryan directly for questions, custom packages and other arrangements.

MORE ABOUT THE REO SONGWRITING RETREAT:

Join Renee Grant-Williams at the 11th Annual REO Songwriting
Retreat - July 11-16, 2010

What makes the REO Songwriters retreat different from any other songwriting camp? Start with an incredible setting right on the edge of a beautiful jade-green river canyon. Add rushing rapids,
snow-capped mountains, wildflowers and wilderness. Then add four of the best songwriting mentors on the planet; a low instructor-to-student ratio to enhance the intimacy and one-on-one time with our instructors and other songwriters; a private critique session with your choice of instructor/mentor; daily social hour, open-mic and co-writing sessions. Finally, choose an optional whitewater rafting (exciting) or scenic float rafting (relaxing) adventure on the Nahatlatch or Fraser Rivers.
Join songwriters from around the world for a truly amazing week!

Renee will be joining:

PAT PATTISON: Professor at Berklee College of Music in Boston, Pat developed the first Songwriting Major in the USA. He has published three best-selling books on songwriting including Writing Better Lyrics (Writers Digest, 1995). Pat has hosted nine Songwriters Retreats at REO since 1997. Pat teaches across the North America, Australia and New Zealand and is involved with TAXI, NSAI, SAC and many other songwriting association

BONNIE HAYES: A Grammy-nominated songwriter with huge international hits including “Have a Heart” and "Love Letter", which restored Bonnie Raitt to superstardom with the multi-platinum, multi-Grammy-winning CD Nick of Time. Writing for artists as diverse as Bette Midler, Robert Cray, Adam Ant, David Crosby, Booker T and the MG's, and Cher, Bonnie has continued to craft songs one critic described as "sparkling clockwork mechanisms with a tendency to do the unexpected." Plus, Bonnie has toured as a keyboardist/backing vocalist with such arena acts
as Belinda Carlisle and Billy Idol.

MARK SIMOS: Acclaimed "neo-traditionalist" songwriter Mark Simos brings a deep grounding in American roots music - old time, bluegrass, Celtic - to his work. His signature style, combining
finely crafted lyrics with surprising turns of melody and modal harmonies, has yielded four songs recorded by Alison Krauss and Union Station, and 100+ cuts overall with artists including Del
McCoury, the Infamous Stringdusters, Doyle Lawson and Laurie Lewis. As a songwriting professor at Berklee College of Music, Mark's teaching combines solid technical content with
explorations and exercises developed at dozens of workshops, camps and clinics over the years. In his writing and teaching, he champions craft, diversity, versatility, risk-taking, and
innovation through renewal of timeless forms.

We look forward to seeing you at the river this summer!

THE GREAT CASTELL KAYAK RACE DOES IT AGAIN 2010

2010-05-07T14:57:00.000-07:00

Up the creek with a paddle!

The Great Castell Kayak Race, affectionately known as "GiCKeR," is preparing to launch its next fundraiser. The kayaks will put in from the Llano River RV park the morning of June 5 at the Hwy 87 bridge in Mason county. Registration is from 6:30 - 8:15 a.m., the fee is $45. The race is run each year in memory of Judith Curtis.

http://www.castelltexas.com/race.html

Skip Ewing’s Horse & Writer “Invitational” Aug 22-28, 2010

2010-04-30T12:21:00.000-07:00

Skip Ewing’s Horse & Writer

"Classic" - Aug. 22 - Aug. 28
"Invitational" - Aug. 29 - Sept. 4

Unique seven-day songwriting retreats into the wilderness of your true creative potential.

Horse & Writer "Invitational"

It's been called the most prestigious and creatively advanced songwriting mentorship program ever offered, one in which you'll be afforded guidance and instruction from some of the finest and most successful songwriters in the business. Apply for an opportunity to be accepted to attend on a full scholarship worth $2500.

Link to "Invitational" Mane Page

Horse & Writer “Classic”

Originally conceived as an industry event for highly successful professional songwriters, it has grown into a week-long retreat with a curriculum that embraces songwriters of all abilities. *Anyone may pay tuition and attend. Link to "Classic" Mane Page

*Attendees under 18 are accepted on an individual basis and must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

SYNC UP CONFERENCE 2010-April 23-24 and April 30-May 1

2010-04-13T07:41:00.000-07:00

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation presents the third annual Sync Up Conference

At the New Orleans Museum of ArtDavid Simon, co-creator of the new HBO series “Treme,” will give a keynote address at the third annual Sync Up conference, which takes place during the 2010 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell.The Sync Up conference – one of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation’s economic development programs for the Louisiana entertainment industry – brings together top leaders from the international music festival industry as well as key figures in the worlds of film, television, videogames, social networking and other new media.As in past years, the conference will consist of networking sessions and panel discussions the mornings of the Friday and Saturday of both Jazz Fest weekends (April 23-24 and April 30-May 1).NEW LOCATION: This year, the conference moves to a new location – the elegant New Orleans Museum of Art (map), which is walking distance to Jazz Fest.Topics to be discussed include the international music festivals market, licensing music to film and television, songwriting and using the Internet to market and sell music.Admission to the Sync Up conference is free, but seating is limited, so advance registration is required.Register online here.Highlights of the 2010 Sync Up conference include:• A keynote address from David Simon, creator of the HBO series “The Wire,” "Generation Kill," "The Corner" and, most recently, co-creator of the New Orleans-based “Treme”
• A round-table on the international music festival market, with festival talent buyers from Australia, South Africa and Nepal, as well as key American festivals and booking agents
• A forum on licensing music to film and TV featuring the music supervisors for two HBO series with Louisiana connections, “Treme” and “True Blood”
• A panel on the latest innovations in marketing music through social networking web sites and other new media, featuring senior execs from YouTube, Pearl Jam’s interactive outlet and a developer of mobile device applications for major music events.Additional conference events include:
• A listening party to celebrate the release of a new album by New Orleans avant-rock avatars Quintron and Miss Pussycat, created on site during a residency at the New Orleans Museum of Art. Wednesday, April 28, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the New Orleans Museum of Art.
• A special screening of "Icons Among Us: jazz in the present tense," a searing documentary that captures some of the freshest and most exciting sounds of the rapidly evolving global jazz scene. Includes a Q&A with the film’s producers. Thursday, April 29, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the New Orleans Museum of Art.The Sync Up conference is proud to announce a partnership with the Guild of Music Supervisors, a Los Angeles-based trade group for the professionals who select the music for films, TV shows, videogames and other visual media. Sync Up and the GMS will co-host a Music Supervisors Summit, an invitation-only briefing on how to save money on music recording and licensing through the State of Louisiana’s various tax incentive programs. For details, contact us.Sync Up conference participants will have even more reason to enjoy Jazz Fest. Conference attendees will have exclusive access to a Sync Up Hospitality Area at the Fair Grounds, a cool oasis to refresh and continue conversations begun at the conference.At the Sync Up conference we will also debut the newly revised Jazz & Heritage Talent Exchange web site. This unique portal is a searchable directory of Louisiana music that we built specially for the needs of live performance talent buyers and music supervisors for film, TV and videogame productions.Sync Up is presented by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Foundation, Inc., the nonprofit organization that owns the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell . The Foundation uses the proceeds from Jazz Fest, and other revenues, for year-round programs in education, economic development and cultural events. Find out more about the Foundation here.The Sync Up conference is co-sponsored by Louisiana Economic Development, The Recording Academy®, the Guild of Music Supervisors, Creative Control Entertainment , OffBeat, AudioSocket and the New Orleans Museum of Art.
Complete Schedule with Confirmed PanelistsNOTE: All Sync Up Conference events take place at the New Orleans Museum of Art (One Collins C. Diboll Circle, City Park, New Orleans, LA 70124 – map)Admission to the Sync Up conference is free, but seating is limited, so advance registration is required. Register online here.Friday, April 23
9 a.m. – Registration and Welcome10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. – panel discussion
Penetrating the Festival Market
Talent buyers from major international music events, and top American booking agents, discuss the challenges of presenting emerging talent.
Peter Noble, Director, Byron Bay Blues Fest (Australia)
Navin Chettri, Artistic Director, Kathmandu Jazz Festival (Nepal)
Peter Tladi, Director, Joy of Jazz Festival (Johannesburg, South Africa)
Chris Porter, Artist Director, Bumbershoot Festival (Seattle, WA)
Joshua Knight, Booking Agent, Monterey International (Chicago, IL)
John Lochen, Booking Agent, The Rosebud Agency (San Francisco, CA)
Moderator: Brian Long, Yes Know Management (New York, NY)Saturday, April 24
9 a.m. – Registration and Welcome10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. – keynote address
David Simon, co-creator of the new HBO series “Treme,” as well as creator of HBO’s “The Wire.” ” “Treme,” which debuts in April, tells the story of a uniquely diverse set of New Orleans characters struggling to rebuild their lives in the months after Hurricane Katrina. With numerous musicians among its characters and cast, the show brings to mainstream television an extraordinary focus on the musical culture of New Orleans.10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. – panel discussion
Creating Music For Film and Television
Finding or making the right music for film and TV is an abstract art with real-world challenges – tight budgets, tighter deadlines and the daunting task of making images sing with emotion.
Gary Calamar, music supervisor HBO’s “True Blood”
Blake Leyh, music supervisor HBO’s “Tremé”
Kevin Griffin, singer/songwriter, “Better Than Ezra”
John W. Comerford, producer of the film “Icons Among Us: jazz in the present tense”11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Music Supervisors Summit
The Guild of Music Supervisors presents an invitation-only gathering of key professionals for an insider’s look at the Louisiana incentives for film, sound recording, digital media and live performance. Contact us for details.Wednesday, April 28
6 p.m. to 8 p.m., open to the pubic
Listening party for “Parallel Universe: Quintron and Miss Pussycat Live at City Park,” a new album created by the New Orleans avant-rock duo at the New Orleans Museum of Art during a months-long residency in the museum’s galleries.Thursday, April 29
7 p.m. to 9 p.m., free and open to the public
Film Screening: “Icons Among Us: jazz in the present tense”
Jazz is undergoing changes of monumental magnitude and importance. “Icons Among Us: jazz in the present tense,” is a documentary film that captures the metamorphosis of jazz by showcasing the words, music, and spirit of the artists who are paving the way for an unprecedented musical revolution. Through interviews and live performance footage – much of it filmed in New Orleans – the “Icons Among Us” explores the thoughts and lives of the musicians braving the front lines of today's new jazz. These brave artists are largely below the radar of mainstream media and popular culture. Yet they continue to record, perform and exist in a world that has been distracted from their brilliance.Friday, April 30
9 a.m. – Registration and Welcome10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. – panel discussion
Topic and panelists To Be AnnouncedSaturday, May 1
9 a.m. – Registration and Welcome10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. – panel discussion
Marketing and Selling Music Through Social Networking and Other ‘New Media’ Technologies
Advances in digital technologies have given artists never-before-imagined ways to reach the masses. But with so many people competing on so many platforms, what does it take to get ahead of the pack?
Tim Bierman, General Manager, Pearl Jam's Ten Club
Ali Sandler, Strategic Partner Manager, YouTube
Todd Rogers, CEO, Seedlabs
Moderator: Curt Feldman
Sync Up 411:Admission: Free, but seating is limited, so advance registration is required. Register online here.Conference location: The New Orleans Museum of Art (1 Collins C. Diboll Circle, City Park, New Orleans, LA 70124 – map).Parking: Free street parking is available in City Park. Additional parking is available at outside City Park on Marconi Drive; free with $14 round-trip Jazz Fest shuttle bus ticket.Jazz Fest admission: Registration for Sync Up does not include admission to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell (“Jazz Fest”) Sync Up is presented by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Foundation, Inc., the nonprofit organization that owns the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell . The Foundation uses the proceeds from Jazz Fest, and other revenues, for year-round programs in education, economic development and cultural events. Find out more about the Foundation here.Would you like these programs and events to continue?
Support the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation.Manage your Jazz & Heritage E-mail SubscriptionsThis email was sent to barbe@texasmusicgroup.com. You are receiving this because you signed up at The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Foundation, or at one of our programs.Manage your Preferences and easily subscribe or unsubscribe from any of the following: Jazz & Heritage Newsletter, Upcoming Events, Announcements, Talent Exchange.The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Foundation, Inc.
1205 N. Rampart St. New Orleans LA 70116 • Phone 504.558.6100

Dallas Guitar Festival - April 16-18, 2010

2010-04-07T14:08:00.000-07:00

Your best value for entertainment that weekend, with 4 stages of entertainment, music clinics, famous faces, and a hall full of vintage guitars!! A must attend event!!

http://www.guitarshow.com

2010 Wildflower! Songwriting Workshop - Friday, May 14

2010-04-07T11:36:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Wildflower! Songwriting Workshop is presented by Buddy Mondlock. In addition to being a performer, Buddy has written songs for Garth Brooks, Joan Baez, Guy Clark, Nanci Griffith and Peter, Paul and Mary. His one day workshop will be Friday, May 14 in Richardson, Texas. We hope that you will be able to join Buddy and learn effective songwriting techniques! See the attached flyer for some of the details and for more information, go to http://wildflowerfestival.com/ and click on "Contests" then "Songwriter School." The deadline is May 1 so don't delay as the workshop is limited to 20 students. All students will receive a one-day pass to the Festival valued at $20.

Hill Country Acoustic Music Camp, June 2-6, 2010, Schreiner University

2010-04-04T20:10:00.000-07:00

Hill Country Acoustic Music Camps
4000 Riverside Drive East
Kerrville, Texas 78028
Tel: 830-459-2120, Fax: 830-896-5569
Email: rbm@tacef.org
HCAMP - Summer
June 2nd - 6th, 2010
Schreiner University
Kerrville, Texas

The 6th annual HCAMP is a five day residential camp devoted to improving instrument skills and techniques in Guitar, Banjo Mandolin, Fiddle, Voice, Bass, Hammer Dulcimer, Mountain Dulcimer, Dobro and Song Writing. Music genres played include everything from Bach to Bluegrass led by a talented faculty of world class instructors. HCAMP attendance is limited to 100 participants.

Sync Up Conference, April 23-24 and April 30-May 1

2010-04-04T20:07:00.000-07:00

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation
presents the third annual

Sync Up Conference
April 23-24 and April 30-May 1
At the New Orleans Museum of Art

David Simon, co-creator of the new HBO series “Treme,” will give a keynote address at the third annual Sync Up conference, which takes place during the 2010 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell.

The Sync Up conference – one of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation’s economic development programs for the Louisiana entertainment industry – brings together top leaders from the international music festival industry as well as key figures in the worlds of film, television, videogames, social networking and other new media.

As in past years, the conference will consist of networking sessions and panel discussions the mornings of the Friday and Saturday of both Jazz Fest weekends (April 23-24 and April 30-May 1).

NEW LOCATION: This year, the conference moves to a new location – the elegant New Orleans Museum of Art (map), which is walking distance to Jazz Fest.

Topics to be discussed include the international music festivals market, licensing music to film and television, songwriting and using the Internet to market and sell music.

Admission to the Sync Up conference is free, but seating is limited, so advance registration is required.

Highlights of the 2010 Sync Up conference include:

• A keynote address from David Simon, creator of the HBO series “The Wire,” "Generation Kill," "The Corner" and, most recently, co-creator of the New Orleans-based “Treme”
• A round-table on the international music festival market, with festival talent buyers from Australia, South Africa and Nepal, as well as key American festivals and booking agents
• A forum on licensing music to film and TV featuring the music supervisors for two HBO series with Louisiana connections, “Treme” and “True Blood”
• A panel on the latest innovations in marketing music through social networking web sites and other new media, featuring senior execs from YouTube, Pearl Jam’s interactive outlet and a developer of mobile device applications for major music events.

MUSEXPO, Aptil 25-28

2010-04-04T19:55:00.000-07:00

6th Annual MUSEXPO kicks off next month, Aptil 25-28 at the five-star London West Hollywood Hotel. The confab will bring together some of the most influential executives from around the world who are shaping the future of the global music business. This year's event will host 30 artists from 14 countries and welcome delegates from three dozen countries on five continents.

As always, MUSEXPO focuses on the music first and business is a natural second. Says A&R Worldwide and MUSEXPO Founder Sat Bisla, "MUSEXPO has always been about those who discover and develop music and those who are helping shape the future of the global music business in a positive and inspiring manner."

North Texas Musicians Meeting!- Saturday, April 17, 10:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

2010-04-04T19:44:00.000-07:00

Dallas Public Library (downtown)

1515 Young Street, Dallas 75201

Bradshaw Gallery, 4^th floor

Registration: http://ntxmusic2010-1.eventbrite.com

We’ll have two guest speakers to help us find ways to reach new audiences, whether as solo artists, large or small ensembles, teachers, or musical supporters.

The Big Five of Social Media

J. R. Atkins is a social media speaker, strategist, Sales 2.0 consultant, and musician. He is noted for “taking the mystery out of Social Media” and speaking in terms that “even a CEO can understand.” He is best known for working with Company Leaders, Sales Professionals and Marketing Managers on how Social Media Networks can make a positive impact on their organization. He will show us how to tailor the use of social media resources such as Twitter and Facebook to the specific needs of musicians and their organizations.

How To Get Your Name in the Newspapers—And Have Them Spell It Right

Stoney Burns has had a long history of journalism and publishing in North Texas. In

the 1960s he published Dallas Notes, a biweekly alternative newspaper covering local

arts and music, and civil rights issues. In 1973 he founded Buddy: The Original Texas

Music Magazine. Its name was a tribute to Buddy Holly (1936-1959), who Burns said

“changed my life.” Although described as a rock music magazine, from the beginning

Buddy included news and announcements of country, blues, jazz, and other forms of

popular music. During his years as a publisher who received dozens of press kits or media packages from musicians, Stoney saw first-hand both the best and the worst of musicians’ efforts to promote themselves and their music. He will draw on that experience to help participants learn the shortest path to a publisher’s heart.

After the morning program, we’ll have a few more opportunities for you to “meet & greet” with other musicians and make a day of it! We’ll provide a list of local restaurants open on Saturdays, and we encourage you to join a group for lunch to continue discussions raised during the sessions or just get to know other local musicians better. After lunch, we’ll offer a “backstage tour” of the Fine Arts Division of the Dallas Public Library. You can sign up for either or both of these when you register for the program:

http://ntxmusic2010-1.eventbrite.com

Finally, at 3:00 that afternoon, please join us in the 4^th floor gallery for the Mu Phi Epsilon Concert Series (http://www.muphiepsilondallas.org/concert_series.htm). Sabrina Trujillo and Alan Dyer will offer an engaging program of flute and piano music to end your musical day.

Our second piece of news? You can now join us on Facebook! Many of you have asked for an on-line venue where you could easily communicate with other folks you're meeting at our gatherings, without loading down your e-mail in-box. We welcome you to join the North Texas Musicians Meetings group on Facebook. Look for more details to come on the group's page and in a future e-mail message.

And news item number three is an addition to our Fine Arts Division web site. Many of you have asked how you can arrange to do programs here at the library. We’re pleased to offer you our handy-dandy new guide to Performing at the Dallas Public Library. From blues to classical and everything in between, there’s an opportunity for you here. Visit our web site to learn more:

http://dallaslibrary.org/fineArts/docs/musicalPerformancesDPL.pdf

See you in April, everyone!

TEXAS SONGWRITERS CRUISE

2010-03-15T08:01:00.000-07:00

The 5th Annual Texas Songwriters Cruise will be held October 11th-16th. This event is a combination Caribbean Cruise andSongwriting Conference that brings aspiring songwriters together with some of the biggest publishers, hit songwriters, and music industry pro's in the business. In this, our 5th year of putting on this event, we will be sailing from Galveston, Texas with ports of call inCozumel, Mexico and Progresso, Yucatan. Please check out our website @ www.txsongwriterscruise.com for more details. We only have a limited number of cabins available, make your reservations now.

Here are some of the Publishers/Pros that will be joining us this year- Jason Blume, Tim Hunze, Tom Luteran, Eddie Galan, Rob Hatch, Shannan Neese. Keep an eye on the website for more to come.

If you have any questions, please call 512-585-3007 or email jeni_txsongwriterscruise@yahoo.com Please pass this great opportunity on to other aspiring songwriters.

Jeni Anders

Assistant Coordinator

Texas Songwriters Cruise

512-585-3007

Collin College Preston Ridge Campus Monday Night Music Buz Series

2010-03-08T16:02:00.000-08:00

March 1: Michael Mayes, Electric Guitar Tone and Techniques
March 8: Jason Blume on Songwriting
March 15: Spring Break
March 22: Recording Ensemble
March 29 : Vocal Recital

Room L135 in Library building at Preston Ridge Campus

Steve Poltz, Sunday March 14, 6PM

2010-03-07T12:04:00.000-08:00

You'll need to mail your check for $12 to Paul Heller, 13806 Wooded Creek Dr, Farmers Branch, Tx 75244

North Texas Performing Songwriter Showcase

2010-03-07T08:20:00.000-08:00

Saturday, April 24, 2010, 9:00 am – 6:30 pm at South Side on Lamar

At Opening Bell Coffee, South Side on Lamar, and Poor David’s Pub 1409 & 1313 South Lamar, Dallas 75215 map

$5.00 per attendee (includes lunch) paid at the door

Bringing local artists and venues together for a full day of networking, education, musical performance and listening, and mutual discovery

Each October, around 200 artists, venue representatives, agents, managers, and others from the music business congregate in Austin at the annual Southwest Regional Folk Alliance. Similarly, each February, around 2000 people from all over the world meet in Memphis for Folk Alliance International. This one-day event will attempt to bring that experience to everyone in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area who either doesn’t know about or can’t afford the cost of the larger events. So, whether you are an artist bursting at the seams to take that next step in your writing and performing career, or a venue looking for the next blazing talent to come along, this is the event for you!

Deadline to showcase: April 1

For details and more information go to: http://www.unclecalvins.org/SWRFA/

SXSW March 13-22, Austin

2010-02-27T10:34:00.000-08:00

The South by Southwest® (SXSW®) Conferences & Festivals offer the unique convergence of original music, independent films, and emerging technologies. Fostering creative and professional growth alike, SXSW® is the premier destination for discovery.

SXSWeek 2010: March 12-21
Interactive: March 12-16
Film: March 12-20
Music: March 17-21

http://www.sxsw.com

Year after year, the event is a launching pad for new creative content. New media presentations, music showcases and film screenings provide buzz-generating exposure for creators and compelling entertainment for audiences. Conference panel discussions present a forum for learning, business activity thrives at the Trade Shows and global networking opportunities abound. Austin serves as the perfect backdrop for SXSW®, where career development flourishes amid the relaxed atmosphere. Intellectual and creative intermingling among industry leaders continues to spark new ideas and carve the path for the future of each ever-evolving field, long after the events' conclusion.

18th Annual Songwriters Festival, Sponsored by Regions Bank

2010-02-27T10:20:00.000-08:00

Nashville, Tennessee (December 16, 2009) – The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) has announced the dates for the 18th Annual Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival from March 30 – April 3, 2010. The popular event features two shows nightly presenting hit songwriters in all genres of music. For the fourth continuous year, Regions Bank will be the presenting sponsor of the event.

Produced by NSAI, Tin Pan South is the world’s largest all-songwriter festival. Last year more than 350 talented songwriters performed 80+ shows at nine exceptional Nashville venues. Over 9,000 music fans attend the event annually.

The Tin Pan South Press Preview Party is set for March 9, 2010 from 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. at The Rutledge (410 4th Avenue South) in Nashville. There, several featured writers will perform and announcements will be made regarding schedules, venues, participating writers and more.

Visit nashvillesongwriters.com or tinpansouth.com to purchase Fast Access passes and check out Festival updates. Fast Access passes will go on sale March 10, 2010.

ASCAP 'I Create Music' EXPO, April 22-24, Los Angeles, CA

2010-02-27T10:07:00.000-08:00

More great panelists have been added to the ASCAP "I Create Music" EXPO lineup!
Over 20 new panelists including hit songwriter Linda Perry, the creators of Yo Gabba Gabba! and a wide range of music creators and music industry veterans have just been added to the already stellar lineup of ASCAP EXPO speakers led by Quincy Jones, John Mayer and Bill Withers.

Get heard at the EXPO: Collaborate with Grammy-nominated producer Chris "Deep" Henderson and songwriter Nate Walka (Jamie Foxx's "Blame It")! Another great reason to register, this unique opportunity allows you to download your choice of two musical tracks, write your own lyrics to it and then submit your completed song for possible discussion in front of the EXPO audience. Don't miss this great event. Register now and save!

Vocal Workshop in Vegas

2010-02-13T08:41:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS SONGSALIVE! SONG WRITERS WORKSHOP
Sunday, Feb 21st 2010

Special Guest

Elisabeth Howard, founder of Vocal Power Academy LA and author

Vocal Workshop

http://www.songsalive.org

Music Series in Historic Downtown Mesquite

2010-02-10T10:02:00.000-08:00

Our 2010 Music Series is set to begin in February. Save the Dates for the first five Hall of Fame Live Stage Shows with Grammy Winner Art Greenhaw, Grammy Nominee Larry "TByrd" Gordon and the Music People Luv Band. Shows will be held on Saturdays at the historic McWhorter-Greenhaw Music & Hertiage Center in the Historic Mesquite Town Square, 105 S. Broad Street, Mesquite, Texas 75149.

Join us on February 20th, March 20th, April 17th, May 8th & June 12th.

Season Tickets are just $75 per person. Or individual shows $15 per person. To reserve your tickets now call 972.285.5441.

Doors open at 6 p.m. for optional dinner and the Show starts at 7:15 p.m. with plenty of Free Parking on the Square and in nearby lots. Hear the best of R&B, Rock, Country, Jazz, Pop, Gospel and more in an intimate, family-friendly environment.

See you on the Square,
Art, Pat, Frank & Liz