February 2008 – Writer’s Rounds – As I write this, soft, fluffy snowflakes are piling up to an additional 6 inches of what has been a very snowy New England Winter. I love it – it resonates peace with me. So I spent the morning in my home office looking out the window, taking in the peace and reading my e-mails. Two e-mails I’m always excited to get are the New York Songwriters Circle Newsletter and the New Jersey Songwriter’s in the Round Newsletter. Both organizations have such great line-ups of musicians who perform and some really great music resources and videos on their websites. Check them out, you won’t be disappointed.

New York Songwriters Circle:
This is dubbed as one of the best showcases for original music in New York City. For over 18 years, Singer/Songwriter Tina Shafer has been producing and directing the circle, producing bi-monthly shows at the legendary Bitter End club, in New York City's West Village, showcasing artists such as: Norah Jones, Jesse Harris, Lisa Loeb, Vanessa Carlton, Gavin DeGraw and Chris Barron to name a few. The circle quickly became one of the most popular music events in the city, attracting not only the best up and coming songwriting talent from around the world but also top music industry executives looking to discover "the next big thing".

NJ Songwriters Round:
NJ Songwriters in the Round is produced and hosted by songwriter, Deb Ferrara. NJ Songwriters in the Round takes place every 3rd Tuesday at Maxwell's in Hoboken. Four artists/songwriters showcase their material in a listening room environment. Although they are (more or less) an acoustic showcase, they have had everything from rock bands to solo guitarists. Their only rule is no full drum kits (percussion is fine) and that your setup be relatively simple. Aside from the showcases, NJ Songwriters hosts networking and educational panel events, charity events and performance opportunities outside the show. From time to time they also provide opportunities to license your music in film and TV.