An important bonus this year: We’re reserving one spot in the international contest finals of the Mountain Stage NewSong Contest for a NewSong Academy student, which takes place on Saturday, September 22 in New York City as part of the River to River Festival®, the nation’s largest free arts festival (http://www.rivertorivernyc.com). The entire Academy community will help pick an Academy student representative to go the New York finals. These are the best odds for a shot at the NewSong Contest grand-prize: cash awards and you delivering a live performance during an international broadcast of “Mountain Stage.” (See www.mountainstage.org for more on the esteemed music show, approaching its 25th year.)

For the complete Academy course list and schedule, to read biographies of our faculty and to register by July 1 to secure the discounted $300 rate, please visit www.newsongacademy.org. SEE DISCOUNTS DETAILS below.

See the next page for a sample of the NewSong 2007 curriculum.

NewSong Academy release: june 27, 2007

Here’s a sample of the many courses at the 2007 NewSong Academy:

“Sing Like You Mean It” — Susan Werner shares a course she has taught at Berklee School of Music in which one of America’s most amazing singers gives practical tips on how to improve your singing technique, how to approach a song and deliver it on a whole new level.

“The Art of Solo Performing” — What does an audience expect from a solo performer on stage? Are you screaming for attention? Are you over-performing or under-performing? Do you lack confidence? Learn how to talk to an audience, how to make them listen and how to psychologically prepare for a show. Craig Bickhardt’s experience spans 30 years on stage. He’ll critique live performances by students.

“Writing with the Guitar”– Devon Spoule explains how she uses the guitar to guide and inspire her to create songs and melodies that stand apart from standard commercial songs. She’ll will lead you off the beaten path to discover a different way of writing as she shares her unique style and approach.

“This Business of Songwriting”– Jason Blume will give a plain English explanation of performance and mechanical royalties; how and why to get a publisher; staff writing and single-song publishing deals; self-publishing; pitching your songs to artists, publishers, and record labels; TV/ film placements, and more.

“Rhythm and Groove”– These are perhaps the most important elements in your music for defining musical style. If you feel you have been writing the same songs over and over again, or that you want to be able to write in a wider variety of styles, this class by Paul Reisler is the place to start. A highly participatory, fun workshop where you’ll create melodies to different beats and use groove as an inspiration for melody and lyric.