November Meeting Recap

Hey songwriters,

OK, so the fairy tale songwriting assignment bombed. Just a few takers and a lot of people didn’t bring a song … or even an instrument.

But it gave the meeting’s 24 Songwriters Circle members, including three newcomers, an opportunity to do something we usually can’t because of time constraints. Discussion ranged from atypical guitar tunings to song inspirations, and we even finished on time for a fabulous instrumental set by new member and guitar picker Ray Pelletier (pelletier@alumni.cmu.edu).

Another newbie, Lauren George (siuiltree@gmail.com), will play the featured set following the  Dec. 6 Circle meeting, where the suggested songwriting assignment is “happy.” Interpret that as you will.

CD release

Fri., Nov. 4, Roots Cellar, Pittsburgh Center for the Arts, Shadyside (6300 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15232). $7, doors 6:30 p.m., show 7 p.m., doors close 10:30 p.m. Free parking at PCA.

I’m still soliciting donations of one or more of your independent CDs for our annual release party raffle. Bring them to the show, drop them off at the merch table.

Christmas songs

On Dec. 11, Pittsburgh Songwriters Circle will continue its tradition of providing the music for a Christmas party at the City Mission, a homeless shelter in Washington, Pa. In addition to playing sing-along versions of holiday standards, members throw in their holiday originals. Residents love it, and the performers always leave the event feeling great. Details pending.

See you soon,

– John