Hey songwriters,

Ask anyone who was there. The Sept. 6 meeting of Pittsburgh Songwriters Circle was one of the best meetings Pittsburgh Songwriters Circle has ever had. A full house, five new members, interesting twists on the assignment (lullabye) and thoughtful commentary on the songs. The meeting ended in time for “Cowboy” Ken Nowacki (veronicanowacki@yahoo.com) to start the featured set on time, where he put his brand on some old country classics.

At the Oct. 4 meeting, the suggested assignment is to write a song with “local flavor.” Interpret that however you want. Meet new member Amanda Lazada (amandajlazada@gmail.com) in the featured slot.

Other stuff

The group’s 12th annual album project is progressing on time. Whether you’re on the album or not, keep your schedule open Fri., Nov. 4 for the CD release event at Pittsburgh Center for the Arts, Shadyside.

Gig opportunity

On Wed., Sept. 28, Venture Outdoors will hold a riverside celebration for people who participated in the summer TriAnglers fishing program. For the second year, Pittsburgh Songwriters Circle has been invited to provide live music for the event. No pay, but last year’s event was fun — we set up under a dining canopy on the North Shore wharf at the base of the Clemente Bridge in the shadow of PNC Park and played round-robin style. Good gig for Circle members who don’t work day jobs or are able to take long lunches. We play 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Reply to this address if you plan to play this gig.

See you soon,

John