A letter from our Coordinator - Donna Brooks

Hey everyone!

Sorry it's been a while since you've heard anything.  We didn't meet in July because of vacations and such, and had a great workshop with Nancy Moran & Fett to start out August, and it's been quiet since then. 

Next Meeting:
Our next meeting will be September 10th, from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm at Java & Jams, 321 North 20th St, Birmingham.  There is a large square parking lot across 20th Street from J & J; feel free to park there (and rest assured that you won't have to be trekking blocks in downtown B'ham when you come to meetings or to hear music at J & J!). 

We will be discussing a lesson by Walt Aldridge called "Lost in Translation."  Walt explains how country music speaks a language all its own and you have to know that language to communicate effectively with the audience you're trying to reach.  While the lesson is focused on country, the same principal holds true in all genres; you've got to write from the correct "voice."  Since 1977, Walt has worked as a producer, writer, artist, engineer, session singer and player on hundreds of albums in a variety of genres.  Among many other cuts, Walt wrote or co-wrote "I Loved Her First" recorded by Heartland and "Modern Day Bonnie and Clyde" recorded by Travis Tritt.

Other Important News:
I want to let everyone know that, as much as I have loved serving as Coordinator, I have decided to turn over the reigns of this group to the VERY capable hands of Gary Furr.  I have been coordinator for two years and have loved seeing this group revive itself so that it is now a thriving support network fostering local songwriters.  Thanks to all of you who have come to the meetings over the years - it ONLY works with people committing the time to participate!  My family obligations have made this the right time to step down, however.

Those of you who have come to the meetings know what great hands NSAI's Birmingham chapter will be in.  Gary is a natural born teacher and nurturer, and he really has a passion for music and songwriting.  Please help him make this transition easier by putting the NSAI meetings on your calendar.  Gary will be talking to John Maske at J & J to get a good meeting schedule going, and will get those upcoming dates out to you.  I have given him my e-mail distribution list.  However, if you feel like you're not hearing anything, PLEASE send me an e-mail and I'll get in touch with Gary for you. 

Thanks to you all!  Hope to see a great group on the 10th.  J & J has great coffee (really, really great coffee), and sandwiches and cookies and all kinds of great stuff, so that's another reason to come to the meeting!

My best to you all,

Donna