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Mid-Atlantic Song Contest
SAW proudly sponsors the Mid-Atlantic Song Contest (MASC) each year. MASC, which is one of the longest-running contests in the nation and which attracts entries from around the world, offers amateur songwriters an opportunity to enter their songs in a wide variety of categories. Prizes are awarded to the first and second place (gold and silver) winners in each category, with a panel of music industry professionals choosing three top prize winners from among those entries. All category winners are invited to perform their winning songs at the Awards Gala held in Washington, D.C. in November-December, culminating with the three top winners being announced that night. The top songs from each category are compiled and released on a "Winner's CD," copies of which are given to each winner and distributed to a variety of music industry decision-makers. The entry deadline for MASC is July-August, with entry forms available from SAW's website (or you can request one by mail) in early April.
"SAW e-Notes" Newsletter
SAW publishes SAW Notes, a monthly electronic newsletter which includes information on SAW events, free Classified Ads, and local news regarding the world of songwriting.
Open Mics and Showcases
SAW hosts a variety of great opportunities for songwriters to "get out there" and have your music heard in a live setting. SAW's open mics feature both beginning and seasoned performers. Additionally, SAW hosts songwriters showcases, which give seasoned performers an opportunity to play a longer set. SAW acts as a clearinghouse for members who wish to be included in these events.
Workshops and Critques
SAW sponsors a range of educational workshops, as well as peer critiques. Saw frequently hosts workshops featuring guest songwriters, musicians, producers, and other music industry professionals on songcraft, performance, creativity, and the business of music. Recent presenters have included Pat Pattison, Siobhan Quinn, and Mary Sue Twohy.
SAW's monthly Songwriter Exchange is an excellent opportunity to get input on your songs-in progress from an audience of friendly peers. The idea behind these workshops is for participants to bring a song-in-the-works to share with the group for constructive criticism. Songwriters can either play their songs live, or bring a recording to play on a boom box. You're encouraged to bring about 8-10 lyric sheets to distribute, too, which will be returned with comments in the margins, if you wish to present a song. Even if you get substantial co-writer-quality input on your song from the group, the copyright remains exclusively yours. Both are held at the Lab at Convergence (1819 Crestwood Drive, located off of N. Quaker Lane).
What would you expect to pay for all of this and more? $200? $100? Nope. It's just $35 per year to join SAW ($ 20 for students.)
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