Many of you are active members of several different songwriters groups but there are a lot of loners out there who may not be aware of the opportunities organizations provide. From needing a local support group to involvement in national legislation, their services are rarely one-size-fits-all and there is a great diversity of services available. Here are a few:1) You can learn the most up-to-date information about the music industry (which we know is always evolving) including copyright law changes and new royalty sources.
2) You can create and develop a wide array of contacts with potential co-writers, vocalists, musicians, publishers, studios, etc. in your area.
3) You can promote your own material to a wider audience, perhaps in a market you otherwise couldn’t reach, (and learn good places to play, open mic nights, etc.)
4) You can get feedback on your songs from fellow members.
5) You can learn about song contests in which you might want to compete.
6) You can check out the reputations of the music biz people with whom you’d like to do business.
7) You are participating in a songwriting community … whether you are a member who attends meetings in your own area, or whether you’re an “online” participant.
8) You can pitch your songs directly to industry people and learn about their needs.
9) You can learn about and participate in legislative actions that will affect your rights and future royalties as a songwriter.
10) You have a support group of people who can inspire you, join you in rejoicing about your victories and commiserating about your failures. And don’t forget about just having fun!
© 2002, 2009 JoAnn Braheny
John,
You are so right on! Since my husband and I started a songwriters group in our town we have seen the productivity level of many songwriters, including my husband, increase significantly. Additionally, the quality of the songs have improved. We all need others to inspire and charge our creativity.
Support groups are a great help for sucess