Musical experience is not required for songwriting workshop for ages 8-19.

During the workshop students learn songwriting techniques from professional songwriters and how to write, perform and record an original song for a CD. Participants will also learn about Tunefoolery, the organization being honored at the Plugged In spring session benefit concert. Tunefoolery is a non-profit organization for musicians in mental health recovery.

On the first day of the workshop, a representative from Tunefoolery will talk with the students about their work. They hope that by acquiring a deeper understanding of the cause, the experience of performing in the concert becomes more meaningful for the students. Later in the day, students break into groups, led by professional songwriters, and write songs based on their reactions to what they have learned (and/or on any subject of their choice).

On the second day, they will record the students performing their original songs and create a CD of these performances. The CD will then be sold at the show to raise additional funds for Tunefoolery. Students also perform their original songs at the concert.

The first day of the workshop will be April 23rd from 1:00 – 6:00 pm. On the second day, April 24, each group will come in for 2 hours between 11:00 am – 8:00 pm to do their recording. The fee for the workshop is $175.00. The workshop will take place at Plugged In at 40 Freeman Place in Needham.

For more information and/or to register online, please visit www.pluggedinband.org.