Songwriters Showcase 2012 – by the Victoria Regional Writers Group (S.A.C.)

Photos by Peter Brunette (click for more)

Written by:  Tracy Mills

The 3rd Annual Songwriters Showcase took place on Feb 11, 2012:   fifteen of our songwriters from the Victoria Regional Writers Group (VRWG) took to the stage and let fly their original songs.

• from top to bottom, left to right…
• Jim Moffatt, Bob Nelson, Renata Young & Martin Matychuk
• Paul Ruszel, Sage, Beverley McKeen
• Gord Oliphant, Tim Black, Doris Morson
• Peter Brunette, John Cowell, Kate Steele
• Zachary Doeding, Tracy Mills & Paul Mowbray & Stephen Ogden
• Thanks to Steve Sturgess who made us sound so sweet.

The crowd was responsive and engaged: they clapped and sang.  And I’m sure they would have done so, even if I hadn’t threatened them with my bow.  Plus we raised some money for Knox Presbyterian  (who graciously allow us use of their space for our monthly workshops).

We came from such humble beginnings three years ago:  4 of us clutching our pencils, sharing an envelope for our melodies; to today, 20 of us spilling our lyrics across four tables and onto the floor.  We have over 75 on our songwriters  mailing list  and growing numbers on our facebook page.   And all levels – from the beginner to those who have “cut deals” with their songs.  Each workshop hones a particular songwriting skill, but the people in the room are the real strength.  We have become a mature community that can deal with any issues that arise – that and we make people who act out sit in the corner and write limericks with moon and June.

The RWG program is spearheaded by the Songwriters Association of Canada, and boasts 15 groups from Victoria to Kippens.  Each with it’s own style, program and volunteer coordinators.  You should start one.

Much love and much more soon,
Tracy

Click Here to see original posting on the Mombray and Mills website.