Dallas Songwriters Workshops

Texas Independent Music Expo - Saturday, November 5

2011-08-04T10:26:00.000-07:00

WORKSHOPS • SHOWCASES

SONGS CRITIQUES • OPEN MIC

Texas Independent Music Expo is all about the Music! It was established to help independent music artists realize their potential, seek promotional opportunities and connect with music industry professionals through networking, exhibitor booths, music workshops and a performing songwriter competition. Join us for a full day of great music by aspiring singer-songwriters and musicians. The event will take place at Sons of Hermann Hall, 3414 Elm St., Dallas, TX 75226.

http://www.texasindependentmusicexpo.com/index.html

EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS SPONSORED BY Dallas Songwriters Association

• I Wrote A Song... Now What?

Presented by Jo Musik

Recording a professional demo and what to look

for in a studio, producer, engineer.

• Music in Film & TV

Presented by Linda (Kordek) Milton

The business of film music in LA and Dallas.

• Copyright! What You Need to Know!

Presented by Craig Crafton

The legal elements of a song.

• Grammy CSI: What Makes a Hit Song

Presented by Barbara McMillen.

An examination of the elements and structure
of the 2010 Grammy winning

Song of the Year,

"Need You Now" by Lady Antibellum.

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. Songs are submitted on a first come first serve basis by reserving an available 10 minute time slot on a sign up sheet. You may submit as many songs as you wish.

The Critique Panel consists of 2 respected industry professionals. The Panel and guests will listen to each song and then judge each song based on 6 categories: Hook, Melody, Lyric, Structure, Originality, and Emotional Truth. The panel will give their comments and critiques about each song after the song is played. Lyric sheets and evaluation sheets will be returned with comments. After all songs have been played and critiques are complete, the judges scores will be tallied and the top two songs for the day will be picked. 1st place winner will get $50 in cash, 1st and 2nd place winners will get a free DSA membership ( a value of $50), and a DSA t-shirt.

1. Submitted song should be on a CD (that should include your name and phone number) or can per performed live.

2. Approximately 2 typed lyric sheets should be provided to the judges for each song.

3. You may submit as many songs as you like.

4. You may submit a lyric only for critique.

5. Sign up is on a first come basis the day of the event. Sign up sheet will be located on a table in the front hall outside the front meeting room. Each time slot in 10 minutes to allow ample time for the judges comments.

6. All decisions of the judges are final.

7. Winners will be announced at 9:30PM on the main stage. Winners do not have to be present to win and if not present, will be notified by email.

8. Contest in not valid if their are less than ten entries, however, critiques will still be performed during the 10 minute time alloted.

Beth Nielsen Chapman Workshop, July 16, Love & War in Plano

2011-05-18T09:43:00.000-07:00

THE MIRACLE OF THE CREATIVE FLOW

Beth Nielsen Chapman's workshop is on songwriting and the power of dropping into the heart and listening to the guiding voice of the creative spirit. Beth’s songs, interspersed with story and insights, explore creative expression from the perspective of creativity in action.

The miracle of creative flow comes from the same source no matter what's growing. The great song, like the flower, is a divine expression of creativity. The brain has to get out of the way and allow the heart and soul, the subconscious wells of creativity, to flow and work their magic. Chapman balances the importance of balancing the craft with the inspiration: “If the heart and body and breath of great writing come from the soul, then you can thank the brain for help with the clothes, shoes, and matching handbag.” You'll experience some great insight on how to maximize the whole spectrum of what you can bring to your writing after a BNC workshop!

Beth's style of critiquing a song is very supportive while cutting through to the best in what each song has to offer and working towards bringing up the overall quality and making it 'air-tight'.

Here are some comments from students:

.........."By far it has been the most interesting, stimulating and heartful songwriting workshop I’ve ever attended since I started pursuing songwriting! It's very unique in its way and brings out the message of an endless universe with an endless inner potential to write songs or be creative in any way whatsoever. It’s a great message to the psyche that can work both on a conscious and/or subconscious level to really make a difference in a person’s life!"

.........."thank you for your truly inspirational master class on Tuesday evening.... I came to the event dejected, and left feeling empowered.

I am and will be forever grateful"

.....I left feeling inspired and nourished. You emit such an infectious joy and hopefulness – it is the most beautiful and powerful thing and I hope I can ‘grow up’ to be even a bit like that :)

........"Just to thank you for a wonderful workshop and concert. It was inspiring, challenging and entertaining all rolled into one!"

Beth and 10 members judged to have the best songs submitted to her for evaluation prior to the workshop will take the stage between 5:30 PM and 7:00 PM that evening. She will be adding a capability to her site to submit your best song soon. The two songs that she chooses as the best songs will get a scholarship where Beth will refund the enrollment fee. To take advantage of this opportunity, you must sign up before July 2nd.

Sign up ahead of time at the links below. By the way, the text on her site says $35 for DSA and NSAI, and $40 for non-members, but this is a misprint that will be corrected. The actual cost is $40 for DSA and NSAI members and $50 for non-members. Sorry for the confusion. We are expecting a large attendance from people worldwide, so register soon, as seating is limited. Food and beverage will be available to be purchased from the restaurant and is not part of the registration fee. Love and War in Texas has a good menu of steaks, seafood, and other Texas cuisine.

This is a rare opportunity to work with Beth. She is the former president of the Nashville Songwriters Association International and has written a number of #1 hits for stars like Faith Hill (This Kiss), Willie Nelson (Nothing I Can Do About It Now) along with numerous album releases of her own. Here is a Wikipedia link for Beth and her work -http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beth_Nielsen_Chapman

10AM - 4PM at Love and War, Plano,

5:30 - 7:30 Guitar Pull Circle

Workshop Fee $50

$10 Discount for DSA Members

Register Online or by mail

Nielsen Chapman Workshop

Dallas Songwriters Assoc.

Sammons Center For The Arts

3630 Harry Hines #20

Dallas, Tx 75219

SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP with Tom Kimmel

2011-04-03T19:22:00.001-07:00

When: Friday, May 20, 2011
10AM - 4PM
Where: Wildflower Festival, Richardson, TX
What: Songwriting Workshop

Although he has developed a following for his own releases over the course of a 20-year career, Tom Kimmel has had more success landing tracks on albums by better-known artists. Born in Memphis, TN, and raised in rural Alabama, Kimmel graduated from the University of Alabama and relocated to Nashville in the early '80s. Early credits as a songwriter came his way when his songs were cut by ex-Byrds Roger McGuinn and Chris Hillman, as well as the Band's Levon Helm. Kimmel recorded two albums as a solo … » Read more

Registration details at http://www.wildflowerfestival.com/content/SingerSongwriterSchool.html

SONGWRITERS RECORDING WORKSHOP - March 19

2011-03-01T12:45:00.000-08:00

DSA is holding a SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP with JOE MILTON on Saturday, March 19, 2pm at Jo-Musik studio. Joe has been nominated for a Dove Award for his musical, "What's Up Zac". Joe wrote, recorded and produced the 50 minutes of music and dialogue for the musical.

When: Saturday, March 19, 2011
            2:00 – 3:30 pm

Where: Jo-Musik Studio
            Sunnyvale, TX

What:   Workshop: “I Wrote a Song...Now What?”

Finishing a song : Finessing Lyrics / Refining Melody and Chords
Recording a Professional Demo: What to look for in a Studio / Producer / Engineer
Before and After: From scratch tracks to Master
The Business of Songwriting: Copyrighting / Performing Rights Societies / Marketing Your Song
Studio Tour

Free to DSA members

Limited space – RSVP required

http://www.jo-musik.com

http://www.joemilton.com

http://www.openheartmusicals.com

Joe and Linda Milton have made Dallas their home after 20 years in the bustling Los Angeles music scene. An accomplished artist, songwriter and producer, Joe Milton has recorded over 2,000 songs. His music can be heard on such television shows as Desperate Housewives and Malcolm in the Middle, and he has worked with artists including The RZA of Wu Tang Clan and Jon Anderson of YES.

Linda (Kordek) Milton started her own boutique agency representing composers and music for film/tv and later joined The Agency Group, home to mega-bands including Nickelback and The White Stripes, where she created their film/tv music department.
Her clients have composed music for shows such as Hanna Montana, King of the Hill, and Dead Man Walking. Linda has taught full day seminars on The Business of Film Music in both Los Angeles and Dallas, and has created and moderated such film music panels as the Sundance Film Festival, AFI/Dallas and South By Southwest in Austin

Want to attend? Please RSVP to Judy Milton and we'll give you directions to the studio.

Kim Copeland & Susan Tucker Workshop

2011-02-03T11:00:00.000-08:00

Songwriter’s Workshop

Sunday, February 20, 2011

1PM - 5PM

$10 cash at the door

RVSVP to Susan Tucker

Nashville publisher and author, Susan Tucker and independent producer Kim Copeland will share some valuable information about the business of songwriting and the recording industry. 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 insiderʼs 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 artistʼs 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. They will also critique your song and offer helpful suggestions to help you get the most from your songwriting and artistry.

Sponsored by Dallas Songwriters Association

and the Collin County Songwriters Association

Love and War in Plano -

601 E. Plano Pkwy

(NE Intersection of US75 Central Expressway)

Plano, TX Thanks to Roger Russell for coordinating the place.

Kim Copeland is an experienced producer who has worked with countless artists in multiple genres. She both involves the artist in the process so their vision is realized, as well as handling the fine points of the recording process so the artist can focus on being - well, the artist!

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 Songwriter' s Connection”.

Kim Copeland Feb 20th

2010-12-28T18:57:00.001-08:00

Kim Copeland returns to DFW Feb 20th for a songwriters/ recording workshop. Time and location TBA.

Play For Publishers Workshop, Nashville

2010-12-28T18:55:00.000-08:00

PLAY FOR PUBLISHERS WORKSHOP - writers who want to get songs recorded in the Nashville Country market are invited to apply now for this workshop hosted by Barbara Cloyd. Sixteen writers will be chosen to present their songs to six publishers who come, two at a time, to listen to songs and give feedback. It will be held at the Bluebird Cafe in Nashville Feb 24 - 26. Application deadline is Jan 17th. For complete details, visit www.barbaracloyd.com .

FREE Kim Copeland Recording Workshop -Nov. 7, 2PM

2010-10-03T12:52:00.000-07:00

Are you striving for your music to be the best it can be? Learn the secrets of successful recording from Nashville producer,

Kim Copeland on Sunday, November 7, from 2PM - 4PM at the Frisco Public Library in the Vivian Stark McCallum room. Free and open to the public. http://www.kimcopelandproductions.com/

Sponsored by the Dallas Songwriters Association and the Collin County Songwriters Association.

For anyone thinking about recording a new CD, producer Kim Copeland will walk you through the process in this FREE seminar, designed specifically for recording artists.  Kim will bring her years of experience in music production, artist management and her talents as a vocalist, to help you prepare and make wise choices.
The last thing you want to do is spend too much money and not get a great product!
Some of the topics covered in this seminar are:
1.       Defining your uniqueness
2.       Planning a realistic budget
3.       A step by step description of the recording process
4.       Do I need a producer and how do I chose one
5.       Selecting the right songs for the project
6.       Communicating your ideas to the producer
7.       Key selection
8.       Vocal tuning
9.       Mastering
10.   How to avoid getting ripped off by the “sharks”
Don’t spend your hard earned money till you know exactly how a professional recording experience should work.

Space is limited. Send an email to info@kimcopelandproductions.com to reserve your spot.  More info at www.kimcopelandproductions.com
Kim Copeland is a long time mentor for The Nashville Songwriters Assoc., the Country Music Hall of Fame and TAXI. She was recently invited to participate in The Art & Science of Sound, the acclaimed video series on music production and recording put together by world-renowned producer/artist Alan Parsons and featuring legends like Michael McDonald and producer Tony Brown.

Frisco Public Library
6101 Frisco Square Boulevard
Suite 3000
Frisco, TX 75034
Click here for a map and directions!: http://www.friscolibrary.com/

Free Fall Music Buz Lectures from Collin Commercial Music Dept.

2010-08-20T12:15:00.000-07:00

Collin College Commercial Music will hold a lecture series off-campus at the Allen Public Library each Monday beginning on Sept 6. They hope to include the community and high school students as well as Collin students.

The series is on Monday evenings at 7 p.m. Each presentation lasts about an hour.

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 6 / 7:00 pm

Recent Case Studies in Music and Law, will be presented by Craig Crafton at 7 p.m., September 6. A musician, artist, producer, label and retail owner for fifteen years, he will discuss what a song is legally and how fundamental legal copyrights define a song and the royalties that flow from the copyright. Craig is chair of the Dallas Bar Association Sports and Entertainment Law Section and serves as associate editor for the State Bar of Texas Sports and Entertainment Law Section journal. Craig combines his business experience as a performer and creator and with his legal training to provide a unique and insightful perspective.

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.

Planned for October, a presentation on iPad/iPhone development of music apps by Nick Wheeler as well as a presentation by former student Jason Martin who works/composes for the Tom Joyner morning show and (hopefully) a presentation by our own faculty member Christopher Lund on his compositions in electronic music.

DSA encourages everyone to take part in this opportunity to learn from and network with the local music industry.

Free Vocal Workshop for DSA Members

2010-08-04T14:19:00.000-07:00

Who: Michael Maresca, MMOV Studios

What: Free Vocal Workshop

Where: 1865 McGee Lane Suite D, Lewisville, 75077

When: Aug. 14, 5p.m.

How: Contact Buck Morgan, 972 345 2133, wmsmorgan@verizon.net

John & JoAnn Braheny Seminar-- July 24

2010-07-23T10:42:00.001-07:00

John & JoAnn Braheny Seminar-- July 24


		WHO IS JOHN BRAHENY? John Braheny is a top consultant for songwriters and writer/artists. He is the author of "The Craft and Business of Songwriting" which has sold over 70,000 copies and has been called "the songwriter's best friend." As the co-founder of the Los Angeles Songwriters Showcase, John helped to provide early exposure for such household-name writers as Diane Warren, Stevie Nicks, Warren Zevon and Lindsey Buckingham. John has served as president of the California Copyright Conference and on the boards of the Recording Academy (The Grammy Organization) and the National Academy of Songwriters. He has taught songwriting and music business classes at a variety of schools including Musicians Institute, UCLA Extension, the Los Angeles School of Recording and conducts seminars for colleges and organizations throughout the country. John is a walking wealth of knowledge on almost every phase of both the creative and business aspects of songwriting. You will NOT want to miss this unique opportunity to spend a day up-close-and- personal with John! Click on John's photo at left to go to his very informative website.


		WHO IS JOANN BRAHENY? JoAnn Braheny began her music career as Atlanta's first full-time female DJ. She went on to become a National Promotion and Marketing specialist for GRC Records where she also worked in their publishing division to develop songwriters. JoAnn later opened her own company, Jaffe Music Consulting, to provide career direction for both pro and aspiring songwriters. In Los Angeles, she worked for Rogers and Cowan Public Relations representing international music and film artists, and also for Walt Disney Imagineering -- the Disney theme park "think tank." Today, JoAnn is a career counselor for songwriters and artists. She is a sought after guest speaker at music conferences across the country. A powerful husband-wife team, John and JoAnn are experienced in all phases of the music business and are committed to passing their knowledge forward to aspiring and professional songwriters around the world. For more information on JoAnn, click on her photo at left which will take you to her very creative website.


		WHAT IS THIS SEMINAR ABOUT? TOPICS COVERED IN THE SEMINAR: WHAT MADE THAT A HIT? Instructor: John Braheny I hear hundreds of songs that show great potential and talent that are missing an understanding of some basic principles of structure and dynamics that could change good songs into hits. These principles (not rules, by the way) and techniques have characterized radio hits and just plain great songs of all styles throughout the history of popular music. If you understand the principles you can bend the rules. We'll analyze examples of past and current hits. Don't let your songs be rejected because you haven't mastered the basics. MARKETING YOURSELF AS AN INDEPENDENT ARTIST AND SONGWRITER Instructor: John Braheny 1. Are major label deals possible? Why would you want one – or not? We'll discuss the plusses and minuses and what kinds of artists benefit the most. 2. Approaching your career as an independent entrepreneur. What should you know and how do you learn it? Best FREE learning resources. 3. Using social networking resources to promote yourself. What are the best services and resources? Is MySpace still viable? Do you need a manager? 4. As a songwriter/composer , what sources of income are available to you and how do you connect with the opportunities? Can you still get songs to major artists? How do you get your songs into film/TV? CAREER PATH PATTERNS AND TEAM TOOLS Instructor: JoAnn Braheny The corporate ladder, as a career path, doesn't work for everyone… especially if you're in the creative arts. Here, four basic career paths, including the corporate ladder, are explored, to identify what motivates and rewards you. If you're uncomfortable with the direction you're headed in, you’ll find this class a liberating experience. JoAnn uses practical tools to assess your individual work-style to help you find your most productive work environment and workmates. You won’t get this anywhere else! SONG CRITIQUES The last hour of the seminar will be devoted to John and JoAnn critiquing original songs at random from the attendees. Bring your best song on cassette or CD. MUST have typed lyric sheet attached!!!


		HOW DO I SIGN UP FOR THE SEMINAR? HERE ARE THE ESSENTIALS: WHEN: Saturday, July 24, 2010 TIME: 10 AM to 5PM WHERE: CBI Laboratories, 4201 Diplomacy Rd., Ft. Worth, TX 76155 COST: $65 (before July 15 -- $75 after deadline or at the door) BARBECUE LUNCH: $10 SPECIALS FOR SONGWRITERS: If you are a member of ANY local songwriting organization anywhere, your lunch is FREE. Just be sure that you let us know which songwriting group you belong to when you send in your registration. If you bring a friend who has never been to a songwriting seminar before, their lunch will be FREE. Make note of this as well when you submit your registration. SPECIAL DRAWING: The first 15 paid registrations we receive will be eligible for a special drawing. One lucky registrant will receive a FREE one-hour consultation with John Braheny!!! This is a $125 value! There will be other great prizes as well for the first 15 to register. Don't procrastinate. ..register now. Send your payment by check or money order to: DFW Master Songwriting Sessions 2221 Justin Rd., Suite 119-142 Flower Mound, TX 75028 JOHN WILL ALSO BE OFFERING ONE-HOUR PRIVATE CONSULTATIONS ($125hr) on July 25, the day after the seminar. To schedule an appointment call John at 818-528-5152 or e-mail him at john@johnbraheny. com. Write "Dallas consult" in the subject line. This is an opportunity to not only get songs critiqued but to get specific direction on your career objectives. ANY QUESTIONS? Call Mary Dawson at 972-317-2760 **PLEASE HELP US SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT THIS WONDERFUL OPPOTURNITY TO ALL THE MUSICIANS AND SONGWRITERS YOU KNOW...SONGWRITING GROUPS, CHURCH MUSIC DEPARTMENTS ETC. CALL MARY DAWSON IF YOU NEED A FLYER TO POST WITH THE NECESSARY INFORMATION. WE ARE REALLY EXCITED AND WANT TO SHARE THE NEWS WITH EVERYONE!

Garland Opry COMING events with Gary Nicholson

2010-06-23T14:20:00.000-07:00

Gary Nicholson Songwriters Workshop

Saturday , July 24th 2:00pm to 4:30pm

at The Pace House (behind Granville Theater) $35.00

Gary Nicholson CD Release Show The Plaza Theatre

Sunday, July 25th 2:00pm to 4:30pm

Tickets are $15.00 - Barbara Nicholson will be selling front row tickets for $50.00 to raise money for her Charity org

DO NOT CONTACT DALLAS SONGWRITERS. THIS IS A GARLAND OPRY EVENT.

Contact CBLuce at verizon dot net

NORTH TEXAS PERFORMING SONGWRITER SHOWCASE

2010-06-19T18:08:00.000-07:00

Our next Songwriting Workshop and Showcase is in conjunction with the Southwest Regional Folk Alliance. Since I'm moderating the songwriting panel, I will be asking questions.

Do you have questions for me to ask our songwriters, Gary Nicholson, Anthony daCosta, Mark Wayne Glasmire, Lynn Adler, on the panel? Please post in the comments below.

Registration closes at noon on Friday, June 25. Space is limited, so don't delay!

http://www.unclecalvins.org/swrFA/

Southwest Regional Folk Alliance and Folk Alliance International present the

NORTH TEXAS PERFORMING SONGWRITER SHOWCASE

Saturday, June 26, 2010, 9:00 am – 6:30 pm

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

$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

9:45 - 10:45

Promotion, Marketing, & Social Networks

Ryan Galloway (facilitator), Lisa Taylor (tentative)

Sponsored by DSA

11:00 - 12:00

Songwriter's Roundtable

Barbe McMillen (facilitator), Gary Nicholson, Anthony da Costa, Mark Wayne Glasmire, Lynn Adler

Sponsored by DSA

Building a Venue Audience

Al Johnson (facilitator), all venue reps (general discussion)

12:00 - 12:30 Lunch at Poor Davids

12:30 - 1:30

How to Get Booked at Local Venues

Robert Scarborough (facilitator), all venue reps (general discussion)

1:30 - 4:30

Showcase

4:30 -6:30

Open Mic

7:30 - 11:00

FEATURED PERFORMANCE: Tom Prasada_Rao & Cary Cooper, Lisa Marklet & Bruce Balmer, and Camile Cortins, Dave Little & Don Cento. A perfect way to top off the day! $10

Richard Leigh Songwriting Workshop, May 13

2010-04-28T17:54:00.000-07:00

Dallas Songwriters Association Presents
a Songwriting Workshop with
Richard Leigh
Songwriting Workshop
This three-time Grammy nominee and inductee
of the Nashville Songwriters Hall Of Fame,
explores the techniques and cognitive tricks
you can learn to:
• Improve your odds of writing competitive songs
• Tap your personal creative well
• Gain perspective on co-writing and songwriter’s
etiquette
• Improve productivity
• Conquer writers-block
You’ll begin to look at the process of producing
these musical short stories in a new light. You’ll
see what little miracles they actually are and
why some of them surmount seemingly
impossible odds to make their way from the
songwriters pen, on to the radio, and finally into
our lives.
When: May 13, 2010
Where:
Dallas Center for Community Cooperation
Oak Corner
2900 Live Oak St
Dallas, TX 75204
Time: 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Other: Tickets are $35 and seating is limited.
Bring check or cash to the workshop or buy tickets online
through our website, www.dallassongwriters.org or go to
www.kagi.com, search for “Dallas Songwriters”. Buy
‘Workshop_General_Admission.’
Richard has eight #1 singles and 14 top 20
country hits including:
•“Don’t it Make My Brown Eyes Blue”
•“Somewhere in My Broken Heart”
•“I’ll Get Over You”
•“The Greatest Man I Never Knew”
•“That’s the Thing About Love”
•“Life’s Highway”
•“Come From the Heart”
•“Put Your Dreams Away”
Want to get some one-on-one feedback on your songs from Richard Leigh?
Private consultations will be conducted on Friday May 14th between 3:30pm and 8:30pm.
Slots are extremely limited so email bob.dsaprograms@gmail.com if you are interested (available
to DSA members only).

Commercial Theater Institute Workshop in NYC

2009-12-02T06:57:00.000-08:00

Producing Workshops, Readings, and Showcases:
A Practical Approach
Friday, December 4

Developing material is a critical part of the production process. Producers and their creative partners have a variety of tools at their disposal to accomplish this task: readings, workshops, and showcases. The CTI Producing Practicum will provide participants with a step-by-step guide to the rules, regulations, and Pro-Forma budgets that are needed. Additionally, they will explore the pros/cons of each kind of production with special emphasis on preparing for NAMT, NYMF, and the Fringe, including a special panel with NYMF's own Isaac Robert Hurwitz! This one day seminar concludes with a networking reception.

Friday, December 4th, 2009
10:00am - 5:00pm
Theatre Row
410 West 42nd Street
New York, NY 10036

$125 in Advance (Cash, Credit Card, Check)
$140 at the Door (Cash or Credit Card Only)
$110 CTI Alumni Advance Rate

To register, please visit www.commercialtheaterinstitute.com/one-day.html

West Coast Workshops - Jan 2010

2009-12-01T08:41:00.000-08:00

Steve Seskin, Don Henry and Craig Carothers in January
West Coast Songwriters Presents: Steve Seskin, Don Henry and Craig Carothers January 9th, 10th & 16th in Berkeley, Auburn & San Carlos. Three friends sharing insights into succesful songwriting, hilarious stories, limited critiques and of course their songs. This year's event will be at The Freight & Salvage on Saturday, January 9th - 9:30am-4:30pm; In Auburn on Sunday, January 10th and The Yormo Building in San Carlos on Saturday, January 16th.
Cost for each day's seminar is $100. SIGN up NOW to guarantee your participation - see sign-up details below.

Sign UP HERE

Steve Seskin & Pat Pattison Workshop in Hollywood
Saturday & Sunday, Jan. 30-31, 2010, 10am-5pm both days @ CineSpace in Hollywood, 6356 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
STEVE SESKIN (WCS Advisory Board member and #1 hit songwriter, including his Grammy-nominated "Grown Men Don't Cry" recorded by Tim McGraw) and PAT PATTISON (Berklee College of Music Lyric Writing and Poetry Professor) will be in L.A. for a very special weekend workshop...Anyone who's attended these workshop weekends over the last 3 years knows how many amazing, immediately applicable tools can be easily taken away from the lessons of these two entertaining, incredibly knowledgeable guys. In addition to gaining new tools for your songwriter toolbox, this workshop will be a great networking event as well.

REGISTRATION SITE

West Coast Workshops this Weekend

2009-11-17T10:09:00.000-08:00

=> SAN DIEGO NSAI WORKSHOP W/JOHN
AND JOANN BRAHENY 11/21/09!; Last Chance
To Register For The San Diego NSAI Workshop
W/John And JoAnn Braheny 11/21/09!
http://www.mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=124918

=> MINI VOCAL SEMINARS IN L.A.,
SAT 11/21, ONLY $25; Darci Monet Vocal
Style Studio Offers Mini Vocal Classes
For One Day Only At Unbeatable Rates
http://www.mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=124847

Music Sunday School - Nov. 15

2009-11-14T18:02:00.000-08:00

SUNDAY SCHOOL IS A FREE - FREE - FREE PROGRAM...

PLEASE RSVP @ sundayschooledu@musicindustryonline.info

DATE: Sunday November 15th, 2009  TIME: 3:30-5:30PM
(PLEASE ARRIVE PROMPTLY AS DOORS WILL CLOSE AT 3:15pm SHARP)

PLACE: Times Square Arts Center  LOCATION: 669 8th Avenue NY, NY 10036 (Between 42nd & 43rd Streets)
Please RSVP to: sundayschooledu@musicindustryonline.info or call Sunday School: (212) 560-2324 for further information and inquiries.

If you ever wondered how to get your foot into the television & Film world or developing your networking skill(s), and understanding the business, this FREE event will answer all your questions and set you off on the right path.

Thank You's:
Phil Londrico www.rockmetv.com
Times Square Arts Center
Sprite
Def Jam Records
Atlantic Records
Sony Music
X - Box / Dj Hero
Produced by:
www.MusicIndustryOnline.com

Robert Jason’s Songwriter’s Workshop! Oct 24

2009-09-04T09:46:00.000-07:00

We are now taking reservations for our first Dallas Workshop, scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 24th, 10 - 5 Lunch included, venue TBA (probably in Plano. Attendance per Workshop will be limited to 10 participants. This guarantees plenty of time to devote to all writers. The fee per writer is $250, $150 in advance. A 10 writer per session limit is best, so all can get their fair share of attention, though ALL learn by watching. $25 Early Registration Discount is offered to DSA Members who register before October 3rd. If we exceed 10, I will schedule another Workshop for the following day, usually 12PM on Sundays.

To reserve your spot email robert@robertjason.com

Quote:

"No Diane Warren infestation of country music in the past year is proof that prayer can indeed change things.

" Chet Flippo (Nashville Skyline/cmt.com)

Fellow songwriters….

The goal of my workshop is to provide knowledge, guidance, and encouragement to both full time and beginning songwriters. I promise this will be not only stimulating, but lots of fun, and maybe even a few (happy) tears.

All will have the opportunity to share their songs in the group, whether by cd or guitar vocal live performance.

Songwriters representing all genres are welcome: Alternative rock/pop, Inspirational County, Contemporary Christian, R&B, Folk, AOR, etc.

All writers are encouraged to offer comments on each other’s songs, and I will, of course offer my own. It is in this sharing of thought that great songs spring forth.

I’ll discuss the art of co-writing, lyric construction, becoming a “hook-master” and even the dreaded WRITER’S BLOCK, and its cure.

Of course, writing that hit is just the first step. I’ll delve in to the proper (and cost effective) demo for your song, home recording, song pitching, and publishing.

I do not waste your time playing my songs. I’m there for YOU, not the other way around. I do not accept songs for publishing, but will be most happy to recommend publishers in Nashville or Los Angeles IF appropriate.

Lunch will be provided, as I keep the workshop open for as long as we are productive. This can be as long as 6 hours.

As a special “reward” for the all the hard work, I invite all attendees to an “after glow”, a get-together at a local coffee house where we kick back, exchange emails/network and such. The first cappuccino is on me!

About Robert Jason http://www.robertjason.com

Nicholson Workshop Comments, photos, and video

2009-07-06T16:58:00.000-07:00

Please tell Mr. Nicholson again for me that I greatly appreciated him doing this workshop. It was very informative and enjoyable at the same time ........ Michael Fredde

Good morning Barbara and everyone else who helped make the workshop happen last evening, Thank you all very much for your efforts; it was truly an inspiring event for me!! ....... Butch Shindel

Hey Everyone,
Many thanks to all of you that came out to DSA "Gary Nicholson Songwriter's Workshop" on Wednesday, June 24th and made it a great success with an overflowing crowd of 35 people.

Please see some of the pictures posted on our DSA Yahoo Groups site. This is the members group, so you will have to be a member to view the photos. Here's the link: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dallassongwriters/photos/album/2003225389/pic/list
Here are two of many:
Gary Nicholson

DSA President, Steve Sullivan, Gary Nicholson, DSA Founder, Barbara McMillen

You can download your pictures with Gary from here. A couple of videos have been posted on YouTube as well.
Part One: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8Cul0If2kY
Part Two: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vYSCjwKJwIs

Thank You,
Steve Sullivan, DSA President

Song Workshop with Gary Nicholson

2009-06-11T18:23:00.001-07:00

Songwriting Workshop
presented by the Dallas Songwriters Association
Wednesday, June 24
6PM - 9:30PM
Center For Community Cooperation
2900 Live Oak Dallas, Tx 75204
PLEASE PRE-REGISTER by emailing to info at dallassongwriters.org "RSVP Workshop" in the subject line.
Workshop Fee
$35
$25 for DSA Members
You can pay by credit card online at our kagi store http://store.kagi.com/cgi-bin/store.cgi?storeID=7TE_LIVE&&
or by cash or check at the workshop.
Light Sandwiches Provided

Http://www.garynicholson.com
He has recent cuts with Ringo Starr, George Strait, Keb Mo, John Mayall, Buddy Guy, and song in upcoming Jeff Bridges movie.

Wildflower Songwriting School

2009-04-02T10:22:00.000-07:00

“Music is life's only true magic, treat it with all the respect that it deserves.”
~Bruce Swedien

May 15-17, 2009 Marriott Residence Inn Wildflower! Richardson, TX 75081

No matter if you are writing your first or five hundredth song – This is the school for you!

School limited to 40 students
Cost for 3 Day Seminar - $175 Note: If you entered the 2009 singer/songwriter contest, you receive a $25 discount. If you attended the 2008 Song School, you receive an additional $25 discount. The total available discount is $50.

Nationally Acclaimed Faculty

Jon Vezner
Nashville Grammy winning songwriter. Jon has had 24 of his songs recorded by over 15 different artists including Diamond Rio, Faith Hill, Ronnie Milsap, and of course, Kathy Mattea.

Pat Pattison
Professor of Music at the Berklee College of Music in Boston and author of three books on songwriting: Writing Better Lyrics, The Essential Guide to Lyric Form and Structure, and The Essential Guide to Rhyming; Conducts song schools from Canada to Australia

http://www.wildflowerfestival.com/content/SingerSongwriterSchool.html

Musical Workshops

2009-04-02T10:16:00.000-07:00

Spring and Summer 2009
ONE-DAY Workshops
What’s the perfect theatre experience for kids and teens? Be sure to see the stage productions of these best loved musicasl at The Music Hall in Fair Park, and then learn from the professional cast members.
FIDDLER ON THE ROOF THE WIZARD OF OZ
DATE: Saturday, May 23rd DATE: Saturday, June 13th
TIME: 10:30am to Noon TME: 10:30 to Noon
LOCATION: The Majestic Theatre,
LOCATION: Dallas Opera Downtown Dallas Rehearsal Center-Fair Park
COST: $40 COST: $40
AGE: 10 + AGE: 7 +
Please call the offices of the Dallas Summer Musicals Academy to enroll. A credit card payment will reserve your spot in a workshop. Must wear appropriate dance or athletic wear and NO HARD SOLED SHOES please.

http://www.dsmschool.org/2008b/Majestic.html

Songsalive! Austin, TX Workshop

2009-01-19T12:40:00.000-08:00

at Genuine Joe's Coffee Shop  2001 W. Anderson Ln Austin, TX 78757 (512) 220-1576 for directions only. (512) 939-4077 austin@songsalive.org  Venue info: www.genuinejoe.com   Songsalive! event info www.songsalive.org/austin   DATES: Wednesday, January 21st, 2009,
Then 28th and continuing into February…   
TIME: 8:30PM till 10:30PM. Starts on time. Please do not be late. Must arrive on time to be considered to present a song for critique.  Songsalive! holds workshops where songwriters gather to share their songs, gain feedback and develop relationships within the songwriting communities we have created around the world. The first half is solely dedicated to an in-the-round workshop where writers present one song each - either on tape, CD or live - followed by a guest speaker/industry discussion in the second half and plenty of time to talk and network.  
SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKERS are hand picked from publishers to record company A&R, well-known songwriters, authors, artists and music industry reps. Most months we have guest speakers.  Check out who has spoken and who will speak at our workshops at www.songsalive.org/speakers  

COST: $5 for non-members, free to Songsalive! members. You can join Songsalive! to participate in the workshops at http://www.songsalive.org/join

  RULES & WHAT TO BRING: 1 song either on tape, CD or live (bring own guitar or keyboard) and 10 copies of your typed lyric sheet with contact details clearly displayed. Read the RULES at www.songsalive.org/workshoprules

Other Song Association Workshops

2008-12-07T20:08:00.000-08:00

HOUSTON AREA SONGWRITER MEETINGS & ORGANIZATIONS

NSAI Houston North Metro Chapter
Meets the 1st Wednesday of each month for informative lessons, guest speakers, group critique and songwriters’ performances in-the-round. Next meeting is Wednesday, May 6th beginning at 7:00pm at Dosey Doe Coffee Shop, on I-45 north, in the Woodlands. http://myspace.com/nsaihoustonnorthmetro
♫
Woodlands Songwriters Association
WSA is an organization offering an environment of support, information and creative inspiration to the songwriter hobbyist or to those wanting to advance to a more professional level, by providing opportunities to learn more about the craft and business of songwriting and to form creative partnerships and networking among fellow songwriters. WSA is open to anyone who wants to be a part of a network of songwriters of all levels. Meeting the 2nd Monday each month at Borders Books, Market Street, The Woodlands, TX, 7:00pm.
Next meeting Monday, May 11th, 7:00pm. Join the MySpace group: http://groups.myspace.com/woodlandssongwriters
♫
Houston Association of Acoustic Musicians (HAAM)
The Houston Association of Acoustic Musicians is a not-for-profit community of Acoustic Musicians and those who support acoustic music in the Greater Houston Area.
OUR MISSION:
To develop and share resources with our membership and the Greater Houston Community.
To create an identity for the Houston acoustic music scene by encouraging awareness.
To provide and explore opportunities for social and professional development and networking.
HAAM has a weekly radio show called The HAAM Radio Show & Traffic Jam, spinning tunes from local to regional singer/songwriters and bands, along with a live in-studio segment featuring a local or touring artist. Tune in each Monday from 3:00 to 5:00pm on 90.1FM KPFT or listen live at http://www.kpft.org. Bi-annual fund drives help keep this program on the air, so your financial support is encouraged. To find out more about HAAM, go to http://www.haam.us
♫
NSAI Houston Monthly Meeting and Open Mic
Dave Bannen hosts the Houston area chapter of NSAI the last Sunday of each month at JP Hops House, at 4:00pm, followed by an Open Mic hosted by TC Smythe at 6:00pm. Next meeting is Sunday, May 24th, 4:00pm. For more information on NSAI Houston’s meetings, contact Dave at dbannen@hotmail.com
♫
Houston Songwriters Association
The Houston Association (HSA) is a non-profit 501 (C3) organization serving the greater Houston area for over 15 years. Originally started in Richmond, Texas and called the Fort Bend Songwriters Association, the name was changed to Houston Fort Bend Songwriters Association acknowledge the area wide demographics of the members. On January 1, 2008 it was changed to its present name of Houston Songwriters Association. Our mission is to support and encourage the art and craft of songwriting, to provide resources and educational opportunities to songwriters, and to nurture a positive environment in which songwriters may fully develop their potential as songwriters. The group meets monthly to critique songs and showcase talent. News, member achievements, and special events are conveyed through our newsletter, "Liner Notes". During the monthly critique sessions, two to three songs are chosen by ballot as the song of the month. At the November meeting, the "Song of the Year" and the "Songwriter of the Year" are chosen by secret ballot from those monthly winners, with the results announced at the Annual December Party. All ages, all musical styles and all levels of experience are invited! We welcome you to visit and make some new friends that share your interest in songwriting. Next meeting Sunday, June 14th, 1:30pm, at JP Hops House, 2317 Hwy 6 South. For more information, visit http://www.houstonsongwriters.com

As you know by now, the ASG Songwriter Symposium is just about one month away - (January 9-11). Early Registration discounts are in effect until December 20th. If you register by that date, you will be entered in a contest for a mentorship with Radney Foster. To register, go to the ASG website. If you are currently an active member, the early registration price for the Symposium is only $175. After December 20th, that price will go up to $210. If you are not currently an active member, the early registration price is $225, which includes your membership dues for 2009. After December 20th, the non-member price will go to $260. Registration at the door for the conference will be $245 for members and $295 for non-members. So, if you wish to save money and get a chance for a mentorship with Radney Foster, be sure to register online at the ASG website before December 20th. After that date prices will go up and you not have a shot at the Radney Foster mentorship.

http://www.austinsongwritersgroup.com/

The 4th Annual Texas Songwriters Cruise
A combination songwriting conference and 7-day cruise, sails out of Galveston, Texas on February 1, 2009, with port of call in Montego Bay, Jamaica, the Grand Caymans, and Cozumel, Mexico. Aspiring songwriters from all over the country attend this event where they learn about the craft and business of songwriting, and get the opportunity to pitch their songs to major publishing companies, top producers, and hit songwriters.
http://www.txsongwriterscruise.com

DurangoSong Next Expo Feb 26-28!
We are gearing up for our next Expo which will take place Feb 26-28, 2009 in Santa Ynez (Santa Barbara, CA).
If you've never been to our Santa Barbara Wine Country event, you should definitely try to come to this one! We've just secured the fantastic Jim Lauderdale as a headliner and we'll have the usual enormous contingent of top-notch industry movers and shakers...plus surprises, as always!

http://www.durangosong.com

Workshops at our monthly meetings

2008-12-07T19:36:00.000-08:00

WORKSHOPS - DSA WORKSHOPS ARE SPONSORED BY BMI
(Each month we have a workshop at our monthly meeting on the 1st Monday and 2nd Tuesday.)
DSA will be giving a Saturday workshop at a college in the spring.

DALLAS SONGPOSIUM

2008-09-12T17:12:00.000-07:00

presented by the Dallas Songwriters Association
sponsored by BMI, Broadcast Music Inc

FREE SONGWRITING WORKSHOP*
Saturday, Sept 20th 1-5PM at Richland College , room D163
*There will be a $10 charge for each song critique.

Join the Dallas Songwriters Association for an afternoon of
Songwriting Basics. Faculty are members and directors from the
Dallas Songwriters Association

1-2 Music Biz 101 - Copyright and Music Industry overview
2- 2:15 Anatomy of a Song
2:15 - 2:30 - Popular Song Forms
Break
2:35 - 3 - Finding Songwriting Ideas
3:-3:30 - Writing Good Lyrics
3:30 - 3:45 - Writing Good Melodies
Break
4-5 - Song Critiques
Bring your songs on CD and 20 lyric sheets for song critiques at
a fee of $10 per song.

2008-05-07T14:32:00.000-07:00

Pat Pattison
SONG WRITING WORKSHOP
When: “June 7th (Sat) & 8th (Sun) ”
10am-4pm BOTH DAYS
Sponsored By:
The “Dallas Songwriter’s Association” www.dallassongwriters.org
“Absolute Rehearsal Studios” www.absoluterehearsal.com
Workshop Location: Absolute Rehearsal Studios
2607 Walnut Hill Lane (@ Shady Trail intersection)/ Dallas, TX 75229 214-295-2673

Learn REWRITING
This seminar, in a Master Class format, will use participants' songs to demonstrate the rewriting process. We will focus on various issues, including verse development, productive repetition, phrasing, effective matching of lyric and melody, structure and prosody. We'll try to focus particularly on polishing those small bumps that distract the listener and let air escape from the song'stires.

About Pat Pattison
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, available through patpattison.com. He has written over 30 articles for Home & Studio Recording Magazine, and Performing Songwriter. Pat continues to present songwriting clinics across the US,
Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the UK. Several of his students have won Grammys, including John and Gillian Welch. For more info visit Pat’s website at: www.patpattison.com

COST & REGISTRATION:
COST: $125 @ person. $100 for the first 20 Dallas Songwriter Association Members to register.
It's only $50 to become a DSA member. Join today! Please pre-register!

REGISTRATION:
Include the information below and Return With Payment To:
Dallas Songwriters Association Pat Pattison Workshop
Sammons Center for the Arts
3630 Harry Hines Blvd. Box 20
Dallas, TX 75219
First name, Last name, Street Address, City,
State/Province, Zip Code, Phone, E-mail

Our pay online:
http://store.kagi.com/?7TE_LIVE&lang=en

Thanks to our sponsors:
Absolute Rehearsal Studios for all your rehearsal needs call 214 295-2673 http://www.absoluterehearsal.com

BMI - Not affiliated with a performance rights society? Join BMI today! http://www.bmi.com