What is Songwriter's Workshop?

A big part of songwriting is networking. Who better to network with than these three instructors who have ownership in and are instrumental in the day to day operation of a publishing company, (Hadley Music Group, a record company (Billy Blue Records) and numerous present day recording artists associated with Donna, Rick, and Jerry. What a wealth of information for any songwriter no matter their level of songwriting or their music genre. 

Songwriter's Workshop is held at St. Mary's Catholic Church. Camp begins at 9:00 a.m. each day(breakfast is included and starts at 8am). During the day, the instructors will go over songwriting essentials in a group setting. You will also be paired with another songwriter to work on co-writing a song, with your instructors offering insight and assistance along the way. At the end of the week, two songs will be chosen to be played on stage Friday evening to kickoff the Backbone Bluegrass Festival (weekend pass is included with registration).. Lunch is included and will be provided by local restaurants. The afternoon sessions wrap up each day around 4:00 p.m.  Be sure to bring paper and pencil, your laptop, or other writing tools, as well as the instrument you're most comfortable writing music with. 

Bring a song you would like to share. It can be partially formed or complete. You can perform it in front of the class or just read the lyrics if there is no melody. Donna, Rick, and Jerry will share their insight on the strong parts of your song and areas you might be able to strengthen. If you do not have a song, you can participate by listening to the songs and suggestions.

 The workshop will be covering song structure including rhyme patterns, what a “hook” is, titling your song, how to tighten your lyrics, using imagery in your lyrics for more interest, metering, song scaping (how to observe life around you for song ideas), marrying a lyric to the right melody, writing melody (if you don’t play an instrument), what is a bridge and when does a song need one, and so much more.