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                             Play for Publishers Workshops   On-the-Road Workshops  

Workshops on the road

There are writers and writer/artists all over the country who want to learn more about the craft and business of songwriting but they don't live in a music industry center and can find it hard to travel to one, so I've been hitting the road.  If you'd like to see about having me come to your area, send me an email. or call me at 615-383-5616. Events are tailored and priced  to meet your specific needs.

Formats Offered

Ready for the Row workshops
These events can be tailored to the needs of the group, lasting anywhere for 3 hours to all day. The focus can be on the craft of writing where we study hit songs to see what makes them work, or it can be on the business side exploring the different ways that songs make money. Or it can be a combination of the two.  Workshops can also include group critique sessions.

Group critique sessions
It's been my experience as a songwriter and as a teacher that one of the best ways to learn about the craft of writing is to hear other people's songs critiqued. As writers, we're so close to our own songs that it can be hard to see them from an outsider's perspective, but the strengths and weaknesses of someone else's songs are much easier to see. Looking analytically at their songs can help us grasp concepts that we can then apply to our own writing.

Also, it's easier to understand aspects of song craft when you see them in context. For example, a lecture about structuring melodies to create contrast might not be as effective as listening to a song that doesn't.

Master classes
This format is for serious writers who want to take their craft to the next level. It is usually scheduled for Friday evening through Sunday afternoon. Writers must apply and enrollment is limited to no more than twelve.  Intensive course work fills the time analyzing hit songs to see why they work, critiquing songs from the attendees and guided co writing.

Private consultation
During a typical consultation I start by asking what you're currently doing with your music and what your goals are. Then I'll listen to some of your songs, and based on what I hear, I'll give you whatever suggestions and information that I think will be most helpful to you.   But if you  meet with me one-on-one, it's your time to use however you want. We can concentrate on detailed critiques of the songs or just talk about the business without listening to songs.

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