Songwriting Spring School (2017)

The Songwriting Spring School was held in 2017 and was a great success – engaging dozens of budding and experienced songwriters and culminating in a fine concert.  Here are the details.

At the Songwriting Spring School (October 9-13th), students will experience five days of mentorship from seasoned songwriters and musicians from around the country. Working out of New Town’s Kickstart Arts, facilitators Fay White (Vic), Johnny McIntyre (SA), Steve Gadd and Theresa Young will guide creative learning through workshops, discussions, and recording sessions (with local sound engineer, Hans Ammitzbol). The week will culminate in a public finale concert in the beautiful St John’s Church, showcasing the musical creations of the week.

The Spring School will be relevant not only for people with a strong background in music, but also for those with an interest in literature and language, as there will be a strong focus on the art and value of story telling. Participants will learn more about arranging and accompanying songs – with and without instruments. Playing an instrument isn’t necessary to participate in the Spring School, as there will be different workshops for people with different musical backgrounds. The only prerequisite is being up for having a play around with words and melodies, and singing out loud every now and then!

The Spring School will be held at Kickstart Arts in New Town, a historic site with a variety of quaint and beautiful spaces. Daily lunch and morning tea will be catered by local food co-operative Source Wholefoods, and is included in the registration price ($175 for Folk Tas members / $185 for non-members). There will be several workshop streams running for people of different ages and levels of experience, so everyone who loves songs will get something out of it. There are limited spaces available, so register soon! Find out more on the Spring School website here (link no longer working).

Click Here to download the SSS poster.