Past Special Meetings & Events
Below are photos and descriptions and Guest Bios from
Past Meetings and Special Events since 2013
(Listed Chronologically)
Past Meetings and Special Events since 2013
(Listed Chronologically)
Annual Ole Publishing Chapter Challenge
Sunday, April 28, 2019
CURRENT NSAI MEMBERS: Bring your BEST, polished, finished song to the NSAI San Diego Chapter April 28 meeting for a chance to win a publishing deal with Ole. One winner and a runner up will be selected.
Anyone can attend this meeting, but ONLY current NSAI members may submit a song or vote.
Please bring proof of membership, which can be any of the following: an official email from NSAI Nashville, or your membership card, or log on to the www.NashvilleSongwriters.com website for your membership number.
Please read the Voting Rules below or click HERE
Anyone can attend this meeting, but ONLY current NSAI members may submit a song or vote.
Please bring proof of membership, which can be any of the following: an official email from NSAI Nashville, or your membership card, or log on to the www.NashvilleSongwriters.com website for your membership number.
Please read the Voting Rules below or click HERE
The Sunday, March 31, 2019 Meeting Featured
Special Guest Brian Reyes from the ASCAP L.A. Office

RIAN REYES is the current Manager of Pop/Rock Membership at the ASCAP Office in Los Angeles and an accomplished songwriter. After graduating with a degree in Recording Arts from Loyola Marymount University, he began his music career in the indie pop band The Little Ones, a project that was signed to Astralwerks/Heavenly Recordings and published by Universal Music Publishing.
His work with the band allowed him to perform internationally with artists such as Kaiser Chiefs, The Walkmen and The National as well at many music festivals including Glastonbury, Bonnaroo and Austin City Limits. The band also made their late night television debut on Jimmy Kimmel Live.
His work as a songwriter has been featured in numerous Film and TV projects including New Girl, Gossip Girl and Kick-Ass as well as international broadcast commercials for brands such as Guinness, Citibank, Microsoft and Paypal.
Brian’s current work at ASCAP includes signing new songwriters; producing songwriter workshops, showcases, networking events; and finding new ways to help ASCAP’s talented membership reach their musical goals.
He also has expertise in ASCAP's Film/TV Music Department, having worked with Shawn LeMone. Brian will also be talking about the upcoming ASCAP "I Create Music" Expo, an annual music convention open to all ages, levels, and styles of music. (Note: You do not have to be a member of ASCAP to attend!) The Expo, started in 2006, takes place in Hollywood. Past Expo panelists and performers include: Katy Perry, Ingrid Michaelson, Justin Timberlake, Chris Stapleton, Bill Withers, Bruno Mars, Steve Miller, Judy Collins, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Quincy Jones, Ludacris, Sara Bareilles, Carly Simon, Ann & Nancy Wilson of Heart, Pat Benatar, Tom Petty, and many more. More info about the Expo HERE
His work with the band allowed him to perform internationally with artists such as Kaiser Chiefs, The Walkmen and The National as well at many music festivals including Glastonbury, Bonnaroo and Austin City Limits. The band also made their late night television debut on Jimmy Kimmel Live.
His work as a songwriter has been featured in numerous Film and TV projects including New Girl, Gossip Girl and Kick-Ass as well as international broadcast commercials for brands such as Guinness, Citibank, Microsoft and Paypal.
Brian’s current work at ASCAP includes signing new songwriters; producing songwriter workshops, showcases, networking events; and finding new ways to help ASCAP’s talented membership reach their musical goals.
He also has expertise in ASCAP's Film/TV Music Department, having worked with Shawn LeMone. Brian will also be talking about the upcoming ASCAP "I Create Music" Expo, an annual music convention open to all ages, levels, and styles of music. (Note: You do not have to be a member of ASCAP to attend!) The Expo, started in 2006, takes place in Hollywood. Past Expo panelists and performers include: Katy Perry, Ingrid Michaelson, Justin Timberlake, Chris Stapleton, Bill Withers, Bruno Mars, Steve Miller, Judy Collins, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Quincy Jones, Ludacris, Sara Bareilles, Carly Simon, Ann & Nancy Wilson of Heart, Pat Benatar, Tom Petty, and many more. More info about the Expo HERE
The January 13, 2019 Meeting Featured
Special Guest Barbie Quinn from BMI

BARBIE QUINN is an Associate Director, Distribution & Administration Services at Broadcast Music, Inc (BMI) in Los Angeles. She works closely with the Operations and Information Technology departments as part of an integral team responsible for the ongoing development of royalty payment policies and procedures with regard to the use of music in audio-visual productions performed on television, the internet and other new media outlets. Additionally, she maintains and develops relationships within the music publishing, composer and production communities, answering inquiries and educating affiliates on BMI policies and procedures. Barbie began her career working in the music publishing sector beginning with EMI Music Publishing and then with Warner Chappell Music. Having worked in London for EMI Music and traveling extensively throughout her music publishing career, she has gained a world view and respect of songwriters, composers, publishers and the music industry in general. Barbie also serves on the Board of Directors for the Association of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP).
#1 Hit Songwriter & Music Attorney at May 20, 2018 Meeting

MARCY RAUER WAGMAN - Regarding the Music Business, Marcy has done it all! We are fortunate to have her as our guest at the May 20 Meeting where she'll share her keen insights into the music business. Bring your best questions, along with a song or instrumental for feedback from Marcy. Works in progress are fine.
A little bit about Marcy Rauer Wagman: She started her career as a major label recording artist with her band High Treason, performing with acts such as Santana, Chicago, Van Morrison, Jefferson Airplane, Miles Davis and many others, and at legendary venues such as the original Electric Factory and Fillmore East.
During this time, she developed as a songwriter and audio engineer/music producer, eventually co-writing hit songs with major label artists. She landed a #1 Billboard Modern Rock hit (“I’m Not Your Man”, Tommy Conwell and the Young Rumblers, Columbia/SONY) and co-wrote “Gonna Break Down” on that same LP. Tommy Conwell and Marcy co-wrote three songs for his sophomore LP on SONY called “Guitar Trouble; the songs are: “Didn’t Wanna Sing The Blues”,“Rock With You” (which appeared in the major motion picture “Chasers”) and “Good Love Bad”. She co-wrote two internationally-charted singles with heavy metal band Crimson Glory (Roadrunner/Atlantic Records) and other songs for many other bands and artists.
Marcy won the Songwriter of the Year Award from the Philadelphia Music Alliance and won a “Top Rock Songs Of The Year” nod from Billboard Magazine for her hit song.
She’s worked with Grammy Award-winning producers such as Ed Stasium (The Ramones) and Stewart Lerman (Elvis Costello, Sufjan Stevens, etc.). Marcy produced tracks for artists such as Robert Hazard (who wrote “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” for Cyndy Lauper), Beru Revue, The Daves, and many others.
Most recently, Phoebe Blume covered Marcy’s song “Sleep Til Noon” on her EP release entitled “Dark Horse”. Chris Day of the Chris Day Band is in the process of recording a song he and she co-wrote (“Way To Love”) for his upcoming LP.
During this same period, she was also co-owner and Executive Producer/Creative Director of FC&D, Inc., a broadcast music production company. As head of the creative team and executive producer, she composed and produced music for hundreds of local and national advertisers, such as McDonald’s Corp., Campbell’s Soup, ABC News, General Mills, Chevrolet, Herr’s Potato Chips, AT&T, American Express, garnering many local and national broadcast advertising industry awards for her productions, and won the National Marketing Award from McDonald’s Corporation for her music production for their “Breakfast Biscuit” campaign.
Marcy Rauer Wagman is Managing Partner of entertainment, media and technology law firm Wagman Dickman, LLC, representing the full range of entertainment industry professionals, technology/software firms and designers, media professionals and entrepreneurs.
A little bit about Marcy Rauer Wagman: She started her career as a major label recording artist with her band High Treason, performing with acts such as Santana, Chicago, Van Morrison, Jefferson Airplane, Miles Davis and many others, and at legendary venues such as the original Electric Factory and Fillmore East.
During this time, she developed as a songwriter and audio engineer/music producer, eventually co-writing hit songs with major label artists. She landed a #1 Billboard Modern Rock hit (“I’m Not Your Man”, Tommy Conwell and the Young Rumblers, Columbia/SONY) and co-wrote “Gonna Break Down” on that same LP. Tommy Conwell and Marcy co-wrote three songs for his sophomore LP on SONY called “Guitar Trouble; the songs are: “Didn’t Wanna Sing The Blues”,“Rock With You” (which appeared in the major motion picture “Chasers”) and “Good Love Bad”. She co-wrote two internationally-charted singles with heavy metal band Crimson Glory (Roadrunner/Atlantic Records) and other songs for many other bands and artists.
Marcy won the Songwriter of the Year Award from the Philadelphia Music Alliance and won a “Top Rock Songs Of The Year” nod from Billboard Magazine for her hit song.
She’s worked with Grammy Award-winning producers such as Ed Stasium (The Ramones) and Stewart Lerman (Elvis Costello, Sufjan Stevens, etc.). Marcy produced tracks for artists such as Robert Hazard (who wrote “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” for Cyndy Lauper), Beru Revue, The Daves, and many others.
Most recently, Phoebe Blume covered Marcy’s song “Sleep Til Noon” on her EP release entitled “Dark Horse”. Chris Day of the Chris Day Band is in the process of recording a song he and she co-wrote (“Way To Love”) for his upcoming LP.
During this same period, she was also co-owner and Executive Producer/Creative Director of FC&D, Inc., a broadcast music production company. As head of the creative team and executive producer, she composed and produced music for hundreds of local and national advertisers, such as McDonald’s Corp., Campbell’s Soup, ABC News, General Mills, Chevrolet, Herr’s Potato Chips, AT&T, American Express, garnering many local and national broadcast advertising industry awards for her productions, and won the National Marketing Award from McDonald’s Corporation for her music production for their “Breakfast Biscuit” campaign.
Marcy Rauer Wagman is Managing Partner of entertainment, media and technology law firm Wagman Dickman, LLC, representing the full range of entertainment industry professionals, technology/software firms and designers, media professionals and entrepreneurs.
Winners of NSAI San Diego "Ole Chapter Challenge" April 15, 2018
Congratulations to the winners of the NSAI San Diego Chapter Challenge at the April 15, 2018 Meeting:
First Place: TED PETERSON (song "Knock On Their Door")
Second Place: TAYLOR O'SHEA (song "When The Loving Gets Hard")
Third Place: JACK TURNER (song "Lube Theme Song" from his musical "Lube")
Great songs, everyone!
The top two songs will be presented to NSAI in Nashville for review.
Top prize is a single-song publishing contract with Ole Publishing in Nashville.
Also, congratulations to first-time guest TASHA PETERSON for winning
two tickets to the Jack Tempchin "I Write The Songs" Legacy Hit Songwriter Concert on April 21.
First Place: TED PETERSON (song "Knock On Their Door")
Second Place: TAYLOR O'SHEA (song "When The Loving Gets Hard")
Third Place: JACK TURNER (song "Lube Theme Song" from his musical "Lube")
Great songs, everyone!
The top two songs will be presented to NSAI in Nashville for review.
Top prize is a single-song publishing contract with Ole Publishing in Nashville.
Also, congratulations to first-time guest TASHA PETERSON for winning
two tickets to the Jack Tempchin "I Write The Songs" Legacy Hit Songwriter Concert on April 21.
Composer & Author STEVE BARDEN at the Feb. 18, 2018 Meeting

What do the TV Shows "Dr. Oz," "The Voice," "Hawaii Five-O" and "Stranger Things" have in common? They all use a type of background music called "Production Music." Actually, nearly all TV shows, films, video games, movie trailers -- and even ads -- use Production Music. If you'd like to know more about this type of music that's "heard by millions but remembered by none," come to the NSAI San Diego meeting on Sunday, Feb. 18. Special Guest STEVE BARDEN has written a new book, "Writing Production Music for TV: The Road To Success" published by Hal Leonard. This complete guide is for any composer interested in earning money writing music for television. It's aimed at the complete novice as well as the seasoned expert. It leads you through the steps necessary to succeed in the music business: finding music libraries; submitting music; joining a Performance Rights Organization (PRO); understanding contracts; keeping organized; networking; and even revealing how much money you can earn. The book was recently a Best Seller on Amazon. Steve Barden is a production music composer for film and television. His music has been used on hundreds of TV shows that can be heard all over the world on a daily basis. His music has aired on ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, plus dozens of cable networks. He works at FOX Studios in Los Angeles. For more information about Steve's book, click HERE.
February 19, 2017 Special Guests: Kevin Houlihan & Tim Bickford

We had a great time with Special Guests TIM BICKFORD from RAZOR & TIE, L.A. (seated, black coat) and KEVIN HOULIHAN from KILLER TRACKS, L.A. (next to TIM, center). They gave helpful feedback and stayed late to answer questions. We had a record attendance and RSVPs! SPECIAL THANKS to Dick Plush, Laurel Moore, Vince Constantino, Justin Knock, Sierra West, Wil Ruiz, Diane Waters, Juliet Lyons for helping to set up and tear down.
November 20, 2016 Special Guest L.A. Songwriter Alan Roy Scott
A BIG THANKS TO SONGWRITER ALAN ROY SCOTT, the November 20, 2016 Special Guest. His career began with Screen Gems-EMI Music and with a division of Motown, where he was involved with Smokey Robinson, The Temptations and Stevie Wonder. Among the many artists who have recorded his songs are Celine Dion, Luther Vandross, Cyndi Lauper, Gloria Estefan, Roberta Flack, The Allman Brothers, Sheena Easton, The Neville Brothers, Pat Benatar, Patti LaBelle, The Pointer Sisters, Rick Springfield and Johnny Mathis. His TV/Film credits include songs used in First Wives Club, Top Gun, Coming To America, Karate Kid II, Fame (TV show), Rags To Riches, Santa Barbara, As The World Turns and Beverly Hills 90210, among others.
August 21 Meeting Featured
Special Guests from Nashville
Tom Manche & Susan Anders
SUNDAY EVENING MEETING: Was in La Jolla on Sunday, Aug. 21 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., with Special Guests from Nashville, studio owner and producer Tom Manche (Studio X) and his wife singer, instructor and vocal coach Susan Anders. Tom and Susan did a presentation "How To Get The Most Out Of Your Recording Session." They also gave us a Songwriting Challenge exercise.
SATURDAY NIGHT CONCERT: Tom and Susan each performed the night before on Saturday, Aug. 20, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at Rebecca's Coffee House in South Park, 3015 Juniper St, San Diego, CA 92104.
SATURDAY NIGHT CONCERT: Tom and Susan each performed the night before on Saturday, Aug. 20, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at Rebecca's Coffee House in South Park, 3015 Juniper St, San Diego, CA 92104.
TOM MANCHE is a producer/engineer/songwriter who owns and operates Studio X recording and demo studio in Nashville, TN. Studio X was started in LA in the early 90s, and re-established in Nashville when he moved to Nashville in 2002. Since he started, he's produced hundreds of recordings: everything from one-off simple songwriter demos to full-length fully-produced albums to spoken-word projects like radio spots, audio books, and instructional CDs. Specialized services include: Demos by Mail, Music City Custom Intensives, and Bucket List Productions. He also can add additional tracks and/or mix and master home-recorded projects. For more information about this service, cliek on this link: Fix & Mix. Audio samples of Tom's work may be found on these links: Demos by Mail, on his Cool Recent Projects page, and on most of the pages on his artist site www.TomManche.com If you're a singer looking for material or tracks for your demo or album you'll find a lot of great songs on the Zanna Discs catalogue of songs, of which Tom produced. He also produced all of his wife Susan Anders' artist and instructional CDs on her website.
SUSAN ANDERS grew up in Berkeley, California, at the tail end of the revolutionary wave rolling through the Bay Area. After collecting degrees from UC Santa Cruz and SF State, she got herself into a bunch of weird and cool musical situations. Among the weird: delivering singing telegrams wearing a table around her waist, and teaching doo-wop versions of Beatles songs to Buddhist monks. Among the cool: stints in a cappella, rock, jazz and Motown bands that played throughout northern California. In 1990 Susan moved to Los Angeles, where she met and married guitarist/producer/songwriter Tom Manche. Susan's Room was formed, and the band independently released five albums of eclectic acoustic pop throughout the rest of the decade, all to glowing reviews. They found a radio home at non-commercial and community radio stations worldwide and toured and recorded for the rest of the decade. In 2002 Susan and Tom moved to Nashville, Tennessee. She released a solo CD, Release, and a lullaby CD, You Can Close Your Eyes. In 2010 she recorded a CD of more personal acoustic pop songs about mid-life, Swimmer. Susan's newest recording is Loop de Loop. Susan's songs have been recorded by the Four Bitchin' Babes, The Irrationals, Jordan Carter, and many other independent artists. Susan is also is also a vocal coach who has worked with thousands of singers, including Hillary Scott (Lady Antebellum), Dierks Bentley, Joey Heatherton, Chase Bryant, Josh Gracin, Jerry Douglas, Rose MacGowan, and L7. Her instructional releases include The No Scales, Just Songs Vocal Workout, Singing with Style, and Harmony Singing By Ear, and her iPhone app Sing Harmonies. Her newest singing method is The Vocal Recovery Warmup.
SUSAN ANDERS grew up in Berkeley, California, at the tail end of the revolutionary wave rolling through the Bay Area. After collecting degrees from UC Santa Cruz and SF State, she got herself into a bunch of weird and cool musical situations. Among the weird: delivering singing telegrams wearing a table around her waist, and teaching doo-wop versions of Beatles songs to Buddhist monks. Among the cool: stints in a cappella, rock, jazz and Motown bands that played throughout northern California. In 1990 Susan moved to Los Angeles, where she met and married guitarist/producer/songwriter Tom Manche. Susan's Room was formed, and the band independently released five albums of eclectic acoustic pop throughout the rest of the decade, all to glowing reviews. They found a radio home at non-commercial and community radio stations worldwide and toured and recorded for the rest of the decade. In 2002 Susan and Tom moved to Nashville, Tennessee. She released a solo CD, Release, and a lullaby CD, You Can Close Your Eyes. In 2010 she recorded a CD of more personal acoustic pop songs about mid-life, Swimmer. Susan's newest recording is Loop de Loop. Susan's songs have been recorded by the Four Bitchin' Babes, The Irrationals, Jordan Carter, and many other independent artists. Susan is also is also a vocal coach who has worked with thousands of singers, including Hillary Scott (Lady Antebellum), Dierks Bentley, Joey Heatherton, Chase Bryant, Josh Gracin, Jerry Douglas, Rose MacGowan, and L7. Her instructional releases include The No Scales, Just Songs Vocal Workout, Singing with Style, and Harmony Singing By Ear, and her iPhone app Sing Harmonies. Her newest singing method is The Vocal Recovery Warmup.
NSAI July 24 Monthly Meeting Featured
Special Guest Publisher
Michael Eames from PEN Music Group
Michael Eames is President of PEN Music Group, Inc. Founded in April 1994, PEN is a full-service independent boutique music publishing company with a worldwide presence. PEN celebrates its 22nd Anniversary this year. With PEN’s A-list music contacts in film, TV and advertising, and a success rate that continues to grow (with 100+ placements each year), it is an effective alternative to the large multinational publishing companies.
Eames and PEN proudly represent the catalogues of writer/artists as diverse as: JOHN FARRAR (legendary producer of Olivia Newton-John who wrote many of her biggest hits); DON FELDER (formerly of The Eagles who co-wrote the classic copyright “Hotel California”); Oscar®-winner DONNY MARKOWITZ (including the smash hit "(I've Had) The Time Of My Life" from DIRTY DANCING); OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN herself; Grammy®-nominated artist/producer WENDY WALDMAN (who co-wrote “Save The Best For Last”); Emmy®- nominated lyricist AMY POWERS; GINA SCHOCK of the Go-Gos; the estates of late composers EARLE HAGEN and ALLYN FERGUSON who between them co-wrote classic TV themes such as The Andy Griffith Show, Barney Miller (and its spinoff Fish), Mod Squad, I Spy , Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C. and The Dick Van Dyke Show, and many others.
PEN is also well known for supporting and developing indie buzz artists such as Kimberly Cole and ShyBoy (both of whom have over 1 million followers on Twitter), as well as many other up-and-coming artists and writers. PEN has also recently begun to represent the videogame scores owned by Zenimax Media which include the Elder Scrolls franchise. PEN’s songs have been recorded by artists including The Black Eyed Peas, Celine Dion, the cast of GLEE, Selena Gomez, Miley Cyrus, Cazzette, kd lang, Santana, Christina Aguilera, Corinne Bailey Rae, Faith Hill, Paulina Rubio, Macy Gray, Kenny Rogers and Luther Vandross, among countless others.
Michael is also currently the national President of the Association Of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP – www.aimp.org). For more information about PEN Music Group, click HERE
Eames and PEN proudly represent the catalogues of writer/artists as diverse as: JOHN FARRAR (legendary producer of Olivia Newton-John who wrote many of her biggest hits); DON FELDER (formerly of The Eagles who co-wrote the classic copyright “Hotel California”); Oscar®-winner DONNY MARKOWITZ (including the smash hit "(I've Had) The Time Of My Life" from DIRTY DANCING); OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN herself; Grammy®-nominated artist/producer WENDY WALDMAN (who co-wrote “Save The Best For Last”); Emmy®- nominated lyricist AMY POWERS; GINA SCHOCK of the Go-Gos; the estates of late composers EARLE HAGEN and ALLYN FERGUSON who between them co-wrote classic TV themes such as The Andy Griffith Show, Barney Miller (and its spinoff Fish), Mod Squad, I Spy , Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C. and The Dick Van Dyke Show, and many others.
PEN is also well known for supporting and developing indie buzz artists such as Kimberly Cole and ShyBoy (both of whom have over 1 million followers on Twitter), as well as many other up-and-coming artists and writers. PEN has also recently begun to represent the videogame scores owned by Zenimax Media which include the Elder Scrolls franchise. PEN’s songs have been recorded by artists including The Black Eyed Peas, Celine Dion, the cast of GLEE, Selena Gomez, Miley Cyrus, Cazzette, kd lang, Santana, Christina Aguilera, Corinne Bailey Rae, Faith Hill, Paulina Rubio, Macy Gray, Kenny Rogers and Luther Vandross, among countless others.
Michael is also currently the national President of the Association Of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP – www.aimp.org). For more information about PEN Music Group, click HERE
January 2016 featured "Nashville Comes To La Jolla"
Hit Songwriters House Concert & Workshop with Steve Seskin & Friends

Grammy Award winner and Hit Songwriter Don Henry, along with Hit Songwriters Steve Seskin and Craig Carothers performed for an enthusiastic crowd on Friday, Jan. 8, 2016, at a private house in Cardiff-By-The-Sea. The next day, on Jan. 9, the three gave an all-day songwriting workshop at La Jolla Lutheran Church. They evaluated the attendee's songs and gave tips on how to write great lyrics and melodies. Thank you to Dick Plush for the photo!
A Lyric Writing Master Class with Legendary Hit Songwriter Marty Panzer

We had a full capacity turnout for Hit Songwriter MARTY PANZER (center, on the stool). NSAI San Diego Coordinators Tracey Marino and Vance Marino are next to MARTY. SPECIAL THANKS TO our Volunteers: Robert "Binks" Binkley (seated, far left) and Justin Knock (seated, far right). Congratulations to Jennifer Tahan who won the Barry Manilow CD, autographed by MARTY!
OCTOBER 18, 2015, 6 to 9 p.m., Sunday
Hit Songwriter MARTY PANZER met Barry Manilow at the CBS Mailroom in New York. Their collaboration resulted in over 30 songs recorded by Barry, many of which have become standards of American popular song. These include "It’s A Miracle," "This One’s For You," "All The Time," and "Even Now."
With co-writer Steve Dorff, Marty wrote the Kenny Rogers classic, "Through The Years." This song, along with Marty’s songs recorded by Dionne Warwick, Gladys Knight, Julio Iglesias, Frankie Valli, Dusty Springfield, Michael Crawford, Teddy Pendergrass, Dolly Parton, Davis Gaines, Daft Punk, and many others, have garnered Marty 35 gold and platinum albums, a 4 million-play award, a 2 million-play award, and record sales in excess of 70 million units.
With Songwriter Don Grady, Marty wrote and produced over 100 songs for Walt Disney, as well as songs for the $52 million MGM Grand Las Vegas production of “EFX,” starring Michael Crawford.
Marty received an Annie Award (for accomplishments in animation) nomination for “We Are One,” from the Disney sequel to “The Lion King - Simba's Pride,” and created lyrics for the score of another Disney sequel, “Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World.” Marty also wrote lyrics and the music for two CDs (and companion DVDs), for the widely popular children’s series, “Mommy and Me.” Marty also teaches a UCLA Extension class on lyric writing.
We were honored to have Marty share his lyric writing tips, insights, observations about the world, and humorous stories about the music business. We had a drawing for a Barry Manilow CD that has three of Marty's hit songs on it, and autographed by Marty.
Hit Songwriter MARTY PANZER met Barry Manilow at the CBS Mailroom in New York. Their collaboration resulted in over 30 songs recorded by Barry, many of which have become standards of American popular song. These include "It’s A Miracle," "This One’s For You," "All The Time," and "Even Now."
With co-writer Steve Dorff, Marty wrote the Kenny Rogers classic, "Through The Years." This song, along with Marty’s songs recorded by Dionne Warwick, Gladys Knight, Julio Iglesias, Frankie Valli, Dusty Springfield, Michael Crawford, Teddy Pendergrass, Dolly Parton, Davis Gaines, Daft Punk, and many others, have garnered Marty 35 gold and platinum albums, a 4 million-play award, a 2 million-play award, and record sales in excess of 70 million units.
With Songwriter Don Grady, Marty wrote and produced over 100 songs for Walt Disney, as well as songs for the $52 million MGM Grand Las Vegas production of “EFX,” starring Michael Crawford.
Marty received an Annie Award (for accomplishments in animation) nomination for “We Are One,” from the Disney sequel to “The Lion King - Simba's Pride,” and created lyrics for the score of another Disney sequel, “Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World.” Marty also wrote lyrics and the music for two CDs (and companion DVDs), for the widely popular children’s series, “Mommy and Me.” Marty also teaches a UCLA Extension class on lyric writing.
We were honored to have Marty share his lyric writing tips, insights, observations about the world, and humorous stories about the music business. We had a drawing for a Barry Manilow CD that has three of Marty's hit songs on it, and autographed by Marty.
NSAI Nashville Comes To The West Coast

NSAI NASHVILLE IN SO-CAL! This September 2015, spend the day with Los Angeles/San Diego chapters on the Pacific Coast hearing from music business leaders! This special event includes lesson plans from DOUG JOHNSON (songwriter and VP of A&R at Black River Records, Publishes Hit Songwriter & Artist Kelsea Ballerini), BART HERBISON (NSAI's Executive Director) and a Publisher Panel Listening Session featuring LA/Nashville-based publishers. Please join us!
DATE: Saturday, September 12th
MEMBER PRICE: $100 (NOTE: Be sure to LOG IN first!)
NON-MEMBER PRICE: $150
*Coffee and lunch provided
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!
Download the LASanDiegoEventAgenda.pdf
See more at: http://nashvillesongwriters.com/join-nsai-september-pacific-coast#sthash.MMO1R2Fs.dpuf
DATE: Saturday, September 12th
MEMBER PRICE: $100 (NOTE: Be sure to LOG IN first!)
NON-MEMBER PRICE: $150
*Coffee and lunch provided
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!
Download the LASanDiegoEventAgenda.pdf
See more at: http://nashvillesongwriters.com/join-nsai-september-pacific-coast#sthash.MMO1R2Fs.dpuf
Writing for Musical Theater with Special Guest Adryan Russ

ADRYAN RUSS (seated on sofa, 3rd from left) enlightened the NSAI San Diego and the San Diego Songwriter's Meet Up groups with her advice about writing for musical theater. She also gave valuable feedback on the 18 songs played. NSAI San Diego Coordinators VANCE and TRACEY MARINO, seated next to ADRYAN. Not shown: Sian Hayes, Chris Armes. A big "Thank You" to volunteers who helped set up, tear down, and pass out raffle tickets: Joyce Ann Martin, Alan Flory, Cliff & Karin Keller.

JULY 19, 2015, 6 to 9 p.m., Sunday - WRITING SONGS FOR MUSICAL THEATER & ALTERNATIVE MUSIC MARKETS - Meeting with Special Guest Songwriter ADRYAN RUSS. Adryan writes songs for musical theater and she'll be discussing her process. Her highly acclaimed show "Inside Out" is an award-winning Off-Broadway show, published by Samuel French, and recently ended its successful run in Los Angeles. Her song "Is It Me?" was placed in the Academy Award-winning film "Doubt" starring Meryl Streep and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Adryan is a long-time member of ASCAP, The Dramatists Guild (see info about the DG Conference below), the Academy for New Musical Theatre (ANMT), the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences (NARAS) and currently serves on the Board of the SCL (The Society of Composers & Lyricists). If you write music for Film/TV, Theater, Pop, or other alternative markets, this meeting is for you! RSVP HERE
Adryan Russ is a long-time member of the Dramatists Guild. She'll be in town for the Dramatists Guild's Annual National Conference from July 16-19 at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines. Adryan will be speaking on the panel, "Writing Musical Theatre Outside NYC" on Saturday, July 18, at 2 p.m. (current schedule). Other notable speakers at this year's conference include Stephen Schwartz (“Wicked,” “Godspell,” “Pippin,” etc.), Bobby & Kristen Anderson-Lopez (songwriters for the Disney film “Frozen” and the song “Let It Go”), Georgia Stitt, Carol Hall, Lisa Kron (who just won a Tony Award for "Fun Home"), and many more. More about the DG Conference panelists HERE. For more information about attending the DG Conference, click HERE.
SPECIAL OFFER! If you'd like to attend this conference, Adryan has provided a special code for 1/2 off of the registration price! Email tvmarino @ cox . net (omit spaces) to get the special code. Deadline: Thursday, July 2, 2015.
Adryan Russ is a long-time member of the Dramatists Guild. She'll be in town for the Dramatists Guild's Annual National Conference from July 16-19 at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines. Adryan will be speaking on the panel, "Writing Musical Theatre Outside NYC" on Saturday, July 18, at 2 p.m. (current schedule). Other notable speakers at this year's conference include Stephen Schwartz (“Wicked,” “Godspell,” “Pippin,” etc.), Bobby & Kristen Anderson-Lopez (songwriters for the Disney film “Frozen” and the song “Let It Go”), Georgia Stitt, Carol Hall, Lisa Kron (who just won a Tony Award for "Fun Home"), and many more. More about the DG Conference panelists HERE. For more information about attending the DG Conference, click HERE.
SPECIAL OFFER! If you'd like to attend this conference, Adryan has provided a special code for 1/2 off of the registration price! Email tvmarino @ cox . net (omit spaces) to get the special code. Deadline: Thursday, July 2, 2015.
Great Ideas for Great Songs
Special Guest Lisa Aschmann
April 26, 2015

Lisa Aschmann (seated, center) was the Special Guest at the NSAI San Diego meeting on Sunday, April 26, 2015. The topic was "Great Ideas for Great Songs" Not shown: Alan Flory, Janet Snare, James Cramer. A BIG Thanks to Alan Flory for helping to set up and Evan Barrett (far left, seated) for helping to clean up.

GREAT IDEAS FOR GREAT SONGS: LISA ASCHMANN was the Special Guest for the April 26 meeting. Lisa is a successful Singer-Songwriter from Nashville and the author of "1000 Songwriting Ideas."
Some of the people Lisa has co-written with or gotten cuts with include: Colin Raye, Diamond Rio, Art Garfunkle, Aaron Neville, Caitlin Hanford, Joice Walton, Dana Cooper, Tom Kimmel, John Michael, Darryl Purpose, Johnsmith, Nancy Wilson, Shanley Del, Lisa Foster, Jana Stanfield, Celeste Krenz, Nancy Conescu, Joni Bishop, Michael Johnson & Karen Taylor-Good, Erik Moll, The Jaybirds, and more – over 650 recordings.
With her co-writer Joel Evans, she's had over 30 TV and film placements including Numb3rs, Bones, West Wing, The Young and the Restless, JAG, Providence, and The Perfect Man. Songs "A Dozen Roses Ago," "What Are the Changes of That," "Until It Happens to You" are some of the often-used cues.
Some of the people Lisa has co-written with or gotten cuts with include: Colin Raye, Diamond Rio, Art Garfunkle, Aaron Neville, Caitlin Hanford, Joice Walton, Dana Cooper, Tom Kimmel, John Michael, Darryl Purpose, Johnsmith, Nancy Wilson, Shanley Del, Lisa Foster, Jana Stanfield, Celeste Krenz, Nancy Conescu, Joni Bishop, Michael Johnson & Karen Taylor-Good, Erik Moll, The Jaybirds, and more – over 650 recordings.
With her co-writer Joel Evans, she's had over 30 TV and film placements including Numb3rs, Bones, West Wing, The Young and the Restless, JAG, Providence, and The Perfect Man. Songs "A Dozen Roses Ago," "What Are the Changes of That," "Until It Happens to You" are some of the often-used cues.
Two Special Guests for the February 15, 2015 Meeting!

SAVE THE DATE! Join us on Sunday, February 15, 2015, when we'll have Two Special Guests: International Publisher-turned Songwriting Coach, Mentor, and Teacher SUZAN KOC (she signed the Swedish pop group Ace of Base) and her Mega-Hit Songwriting client SHELLY PEIKEN. Shelly has written hit songs for Britney Spears, Jessie J, Demi Lovato, Keith Urban, Ed Sheeran, the cast of the TV show "Glee," Christina Aguilera, Miley Cyrus, LeAnn Rimes, Reba McEntire, 'N SYNC, Gladys Knight, Cher, to name a FEW. Only 10 songs will be selected for in-depth feedback from Suzan and Shelly. The topic: All About That Pop - What Makes A Hit Song.
Grammy-nominated hit songwriter Shelly Peiken has been a prolific, behind-the-scenes force in the music business for more than two decades, during which time her songs have sold in excess of 50 million records. She is best known for penning culturally resonant, female-empowerment anthems such as Christina Aguilera’s No. 1 hit, “What A Girl Wants” and Meredith Brooks’ smash, “Bitch.”
Shelly’s songs have been recorded by countless successful artists, including Britney Spears, Celine Dion, The Pretenders, Keith Urban, Cher, Brandy, Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez, Miley Cyrus, The Backstreet Boys, Jessie J, Natasha Bedingfield, Reba McEntire, and many others. They can be heard in many films and television shows, such as Orphan Black, Glee, Smash, 30 Rock, Grey’s Anatomy, Orange Is The New Black, What Women Want, The Blind Side, and The Bourne Identity. Shelly is part of the Huffington Post blogger community and is actively sought after as a music industry mentor, panelist, consultant, speaker, and radio and podcast guest. Her experiences, accomplishments and the circles in which she has traveled give her a unique perspective on the music business, that of a professional woman who fought her way into a highly competitive industry, found a way to succeed, balanced a thriving career and a family, and who has seen firsthand the technological changes that have recently turned that industry upside down. All the while, she stays true to her first true love: the often elusive but always immensely satisfying act of writing a great song. Read more about SHELLY PEIKEN on her Wikipedia page HERE and subscribe to her blog HERE |
Suzan Koç started her career at Warner Chappell in Paris, France, where she signed the Swedish pop band Ace of Base.
In 1996, Suzan was hired by the prestigious English boutique company Hit&Run Music, to work in their New York office. In 1997, she was transferred to Los Angeles where she was instrumental in developing the career of songwriter Shelly Peiken (Christina Aguilra’s “What a Girl Wants,” Brandy’s “Almost Doesn’t Count,” Jessie J.’s “Who You Are,” to name a few). In 2003, while at BMG Music Publishing she introduced songwriters Wally Gagel and Xandy Barry who are now the production team WAX ltd (Family of the Year, Zella Day, Muse, Redlight King, etc.). In 2010, during her first year at the newly formed BMG Rights Management, she worked with songwriters busbee (Pink’s “Try”), David Gamson (Kelly Clarkson’s “Stronger”), Jean Baptiste (Black Eyed Peas, Chris Brown), Jonas Jeberg (Demi Lovato, Pussy Cat Dolls). Currently, Suzan is running “Songwriters Rendezvous with Suzan Koç,” a workshop for songwriters to help develop their craft. She also teaches Music Publishing at the prestigious Musician’s Institute in Hollywood. For more information, visit Suzan Koc’s website: www.suzankoc.com and sign up for a free copy of her “10 Commandments of Songwriting Success.” You can also watch her Taxi TV broadcasts on YouTube HERE. |
Music Supervisor & Music Journalist are November 2014 Guests
Sunday, November 16, 2014
"I Wrote A Song. Now What?" Music Supervisor DAVID QUAN and Music Journalist & Author DAN KIMPEL discussed what makes a song marketable in today's music business. They gave valuable feedback on 25 songs and they didn't stop until every song from the group was heard! There were over 40 people in attendance and everyone left with more knowledge about the realities of getting music placed in film and TV projects. For more about DAVID QUAN and DAN KIMPEL, read their bios HERE.
A huge THANK YOU to our volunteers who arrived early, stayed late, or helped in other ways: JENNIFER TAHAN, SIAN HAYES, BINKS BINKLEY, BOB JONES, CHRIS ARMES, ALAN FLORY, WIL RUIZ, ANDY MACHIN, SPUD DAVENPORT, MARGARET McCLURE. And a special thanks to JENNIFER TAHAN for the homemade cookies and STEVE COVAULT for the awesome photos. You all helped make the meeting a BIG SUCCESS!
A huge THANK YOU to our volunteers who arrived early, stayed late, or helped in other ways: JENNIFER TAHAN, SIAN HAYES, BINKS BINKLEY, BOB JONES, CHRIS ARMES, ALAN FLORY, WIL RUIZ, ANDY MACHIN, SPUD DAVENPORT, MARGARET McCLURE. And a special thanks to JENNIFER TAHAN for the homemade cookies and STEVE COVAULT for the awesome photos. You all helped make the meeting a BIG SUCCESS!
MUSIC SUPERVISOR DAVID QUAN is a 20-year veteran of the music industry and he specializes in music publishing, licensing, and supervision. He started off as an intern at Warner/Chappell and later found himself working at various music publishing companies such as Leiber and Stoller, All Nations Music, Music & Media, China Music Management, BMG/Chrysalis, PeerMusic. He eventually moved into the studio system to work for the music departments at Sony Pictures and later at NBC Universal.
He is currently employed by Universal Music Enterprises and pitches songs and negotiates master use licenses for use in audio visual media. He represents such artists as Iggy Azalea, Ariana Grande, Katy Perry, Maroon 5, One Republic, U2, Lady Antebellum, Phillip Phillips, and many others. Recent placements include “Orange Is The New Black,” “Mad Men,” “Hart Of Dixie,” “Supernatural, “Gotham.” He currently sits on the board of directors of The California Copyright Conference, and he is a member of The Guild of Music Supervisors, Association of Independent Music Publishers, and National Music Publishers Association. He holds a Bachelors of Science Degree in Marketing from the California State University at Los Angeles, and a Masters Degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Corporate Finance from the University of Southern California. ________________________________________________________________ |
MUSIC JOURNALIST & AUTHOR DAN KIMPEL is acknowledged as a foremost authority on popular music and songwriters. Dan contributes to books, interactive CDs, magazines, websites, documentary films, television programming, videos and new media. His recent interview subjects include Maroon 5, Bruno Mars, Katy Perry, Ne-Yo, Mary J. Blige, Green Day, David Guetta, Usher, Alicia Keys, Jason Mraz, Ringo Starr, Tom Petty and Jackson Browne.
Over six years, passengers on United Airlines heard Kimpel's incisive interviews with hit songwriters and recording artists on The United Entertainment Network and Delta Airlines worldwide. In print, Dan contributes cover features to the West Coast trade publication Music Connection magazine, plus a regular column, “Song Biz,” that includes a profile of a writer or composer in each issue. Other publications that feature his writing have included BMI World, ASCAP Playback, Grammy, SESAC Magazine, Film Music and American Songwriter. Over a five-year period, Dan conducted weeklong master classes on networking at Sir Paul McCartney's Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) in the UK. Stateside, he lectures at colleges, universities and conferences across the U.S., Canada and Japan, and he is currently on the faculty of Musician's Institute in Hollywood where he is three-time MBP Teacher of the Year and Chairman of the Musicians Foundation Board. Dan’s book on maximizing personal relationships, Networking Strategies For The New Music Business (ArtistPro/Thomson) is the follow up to his best-selling title, Networking in the Music Business. How They Made It: True Stories of How Music’s Biggest Stars Went From Start to Stardom, was released in 2006. Electrify My Soul: Songwriters and the Spiritual Source followed in 2008. It All Begins with the Music: Developing Successful Artists & Careers for the New Music Business, co-authored with legendary A&R executive, Don Grierson is his most recent title. _____________________________ "Several years ago, we read Dan Kimpel's book, 'Networking Strategies for the New Music Business' and, yes this sounds corny, but it changed our lives. We had no idea what we were doing when we started out -- we were clueless about approaching music industry people. We were a little shy, and the thought of networking terrified us. But Dan's book taught us the importance of meeting people, how to follow up, keeping in touch, etc., and we will always be grateful to Dan for sharing these vital tips. Now we look forward to going to events." - Tracey & Vance Marino, NSAI San Diego Chapter Coordinators and the 2012 recipients of Taxi's "Community Leadership" Award |
Special September 2014 Workshop
SOLD OUT!
LARRY BEAIRD from NASHVILLE PRESENTS "ARRANGING THE HIT"
Have you heard of Blake Shelton, Lady Antebellum, Tim McGraw, Luke Bryan, and Carrie Underwood? Then chances are, you've heard some of their hit songs that were originally demoed at Larry Beaird's well-known studios in Nashville by the songwriters who wrote those songs! Recently, one song Larry recorded, "What If I Was Willing" (by Billy Montana & Randy Montana & Brian Davis), was featured on the ABC Hit TV Show "Nashville." Larry will be doing a special workshop, "Arranging The Hit" on Sunday, Sept. 21, at the NSAI Upstairs Fireside Meeting Room in La Jolla. Larry has the amazing ability to take a VERY ROUGH song and turn it into a great-sounding, commercially viable song!
This event is co-sponsored by the San Diego Songwriters Guild (SDSG). SOLD OUT! However, you may request to be on the waiting list. Fee: $40 for non-members; NSAI and SDSG members are $20
Larry Beaird will also be doing One-On-One 1/2-hour private consultations ($50 for 30 minutes) before the meeting if you'd like personal feedback about your music. ONLY A FEW APPOINTMENT TIMES ARE STILL AVAILABLE! To make an appointment, call Larry or Aaron at the Studio: 615-279-8030 or email them at Larry@BeairdMusicGroup.com
This event is co-sponsored by the San Diego Songwriters Guild (SDSG). SOLD OUT! However, you may request to be on the waiting list. Fee: $40 for non-members; NSAI and SDSG members are $20
Larry Beaird will also be doing One-On-One 1/2-hour private consultations ($50 for 30 minutes) before the meeting if you'd like personal feedback about your music. ONLY A FEW APPOINTMENT TIMES ARE STILL AVAILABLE! To make an appointment, call Larry or Aaron at the Studio: 615-279-8030 or email them at Larry@BeairdMusicGroup.com

AND THE WINNER IS...
Click HERE to watch the video and find out who won Larry Beaird's free recording demo!
http://www.beairdmusicgroup.com/blog/san-diego-free-demo
Click HERE to watch the video and find out who won Larry Beaird's free recording demo!
http://www.beairdmusicgroup.com/blog/san-diego-free-demo
BMG Executive is Special Guest for August 2014 Meeting
Sunday, August 17, 2014

ERIC PALMQUIST from BMG/Chrysalis Publishing Company wowed us at the August 18, 2014, meeting! BMG is the 4th largest publisher in the world (based on revenue), and Eric is a 20-year veteran of the music industry. Prior to BMG, he worked for the Disney Music Group, Warner/Chappell Music, and Quincy Jones Music Publishing. Eric is also a successful Songwriter and played his blues song "She's The Devil" that he wrote with John Defaria for the Lifetime movie "Killing Daddy." Eric enlightened us about the publishing business; explained what income tracking is and why we need to know about it; and gave advice about what songwriters need to know to help their careers. He offered great feedback on everyone's songs, and left us with inspiring words of encouragement. Thanks, Eric!
What Are Loops? Studio Owner Kyle Z Explains at the May 2014 Meeting
Sunday, May 18, 2014
Thanks to everyone who came out to hear Special Guest Speaker KYLE Z of Nashville. Kyle gave us some great tips about home recording and did a demo using his new In Session Audio loops. Kyle's loops have been used in hit songs, movie trailers, feature films, TV shows, commercials, etc.
Thanks to everyone who came out to hear Special Guest Speaker KYLE Z of Nashville. Kyle gave us some great tips about home recording and did a demo using his new In Session Audio loops. Kyle's loops have been used in hit songs, movie trailers, feature films, TV shows, commercials, etc.

BIO: Kyle Z grew up in San Diego, California and relocated to Nashville, Tennessee in 2001. Upon arriving in Nashville he worked for Gibson Guitar Corporation for four years while building his first audio loop and sample company: Nine Volt Audio.
Kyle Z has a decade of experience in design, creation and production of dozens of award-winning sample and loop collections. He founded and ran Nine Volt Audio until 2104 when he launched In Session Audio, a new company that is focused on creating guitar-based loop libraries. His loops are heard in film and TV shows around the world.
He is pictured holding the only guitar his parents will not let him sell: a 1993 Gibson Les Paul Standard, given to him upon graduating high school in 1994. Learn more about In Session Audio HERE.
Kyle Z has a decade of experience in design, creation and production of dozens of award-winning sample and loop collections. He founded and ran Nine Volt Audio until 2104 when he launched In Session Audio, a new company that is focused on creating guitar-based loop libraries. His loops are heard in film and TV shows around the world.
He is pictured holding the only guitar his parents will not let him sell: a 1993 Gibson Les Paul Standard, given to him upon graduating high school in 1994. Learn more about In Session Audio HERE.

MAKING MONEY WITH A HOME STUDIO: What are "loops"? How do you use them? Are they useful for songwriters? How do you set up a home studio? SPECIAL GUEST Kyle Z talked about how to make money with a home recording studio at the May 18 meeting. He explained what “loops” are and how to use them in your demos. He also talked about the basics of home studio recording and gave us some insights into the Nashville music scene. To find out more about Kyle Z’s new company, In Session Audio, click on his website HERE or read his BIO below. All attendees received free loops with a total value of $119, a very generous offer!
Music Attorney is Guest Speaker for April 2014 Meeting
Sunday, April 27, 2014:
A big "THANK YOU" to everyone who came to the April meeting! On Sunday, April 27, 2014, Special Guest L.A. Music Attorney, Business Law Professor, and Author STEVE WINOGRADSKY talked about "The Secrets of Success in the Music Business." Steve gave song feedback on 23 songs. He also signed copies of his new hit book "Music Publishing: The Complete Guide." Congratulations to LIZ MILLER who won an autographed copy of Steve's book! If you missed the NSAI San Diego Meeting but would like to buy Steve's book, click HERE.
A big "THANK YOU" to everyone who came to the April meeting! On Sunday, April 27, 2014, Special Guest L.A. Music Attorney, Business Law Professor, and Author STEVE WINOGRADSKY talked about "The Secrets of Success in the Music Business." Steve gave song feedback on 23 songs. He also signed copies of his new hit book "Music Publishing: The Complete Guide." Congratulations to LIZ MILLER who won an autographed copy of Steve's book! If you missed the NSAI San Diego Meeting but would like to buy Steve's book, click HERE.
MEETING AGENDA:
1) Special Guest: L.A. Music Attorney and Author of the new smash hit book "Music Publishing: The Complete Guide" (which is already becoming a standard in the music industry) STEVE WINOGRADSKY will share his secrets for success in the music business. Why do you need a music attorney? When should you copyright your songs? What happens when you sign a bad publishing deal? Can a music attorney help get your music placed and licensed in film and TV projects? Bring your burning questions and Steve will answer them. For more information, see Steve's bio below.
2) Raffle Drawing: For all attendees, STEVE WINOGRADSKY has graciously offered to raffle off a signed copy of his smash hit book "Music Publishing: The Complete Guide" (a 79.99 value!). During the break, books will be available at a discounted rate of $60 and Steve will autograph it for you.
2) Song Feedback (limit 15 songs): As a special bonus, STEVE WINOGRADSKY will be giving feedback on 15 songs. Find out what a music attorney knows about songwriting (you'll be surprised!). For the first 15 people to RSVP, please have one song ready on a CD or flash drive (no live playing) and bring 2 copies of a 1-page, typed lyric sheet (click HERE for examples). Priority will be given to those who RSVP'd. We've reached the limit, so additional songs will be placed on a waiting list.
3) Book Signing & Meet and Greet Reception to follow. Light refreshments will be served.
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1) Special Guest: L.A. Music Attorney and Author of the new smash hit book "Music Publishing: The Complete Guide" (which is already becoming a standard in the music industry) STEVE WINOGRADSKY will share his secrets for success in the music business. Why do you need a music attorney? When should you copyright your songs? What happens when you sign a bad publishing deal? Can a music attorney help get your music placed and licensed in film and TV projects? Bring your burning questions and Steve will answer them. For more information, see Steve's bio below.
2) Raffle Drawing: For all attendees, STEVE WINOGRADSKY has graciously offered to raffle off a signed copy of his smash hit book "Music Publishing: The Complete Guide" (a 79.99 value!). During the break, books will be available at a discounted rate of $60 and Steve will autograph it for you.
2) Song Feedback (limit 15 songs): As a special bonus, STEVE WINOGRADSKY will be giving feedback on 15 songs. Find out what a music attorney knows about songwriting (you'll be surprised!). For the first 15 people to RSVP, please have one song ready on a CD or flash drive (no live playing) and bring 2 copies of a 1-page, typed lyric sheet (click HERE for examples). Priority will be given to those who RSVP'd. We've reached the limit, so additional songs will be placed on a waiting list.
3) Book Signing & Meet and Greet Reception to follow. Light refreshments will be served.
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ABOUT SPECIAL GUEST STEVE WINOGRADSKY:
With over thirty years of experience as an attorney in the music industry, Steven Winogradsky is a partner in Winogradsky/Sobel in Studio City, California, providing global media and music business affairs & legal support for composers, songwriters, music publishers, recording artists and television, film, video and multi-media producers.
Steve is an Adjunct Professor in Music Publishing: California State University, Northridge. He was named as an "Outstanding Instructor in Entertainment Studies" at UCLA Extension, where he has taught since 1997.
Steve was twice elected President of both the California Copyright Conference and Association of Independent Music Publishers. He has also written numerous magazine articles on the subject of the music business and has lectured on a variety of music-related topics at various symposia.
Steve is the author of the book “Music Publishing: The Complete Guide”, published in 2013. He was awarded the 2012 Texas Star Award by the Texas State Bar Entertainment and Sports Law section for his contributions to legal education in the State of Texas.
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Check out the free, helpful YouTube videos and the sample split sheet on the Music Publishing: The Complete Guide website:
www.musicpublishing-completeguide.com/
To find our more about Steve Winogradsky's legal services with his company, Winogradsky/Sobel, click on this link:
www.winogradskysobel.com
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With over thirty years of experience as an attorney in the music industry, Steven Winogradsky is a partner in Winogradsky/Sobel in Studio City, California, providing global media and music business affairs & legal support for composers, songwriters, music publishers, recording artists and television, film, video and multi-media producers.
Steve is an Adjunct Professor in Music Publishing: California State University, Northridge. He was named as an "Outstanding Instructor in Entertainment Studies" at UCLA Extension, where he has taught since 1997.
Steve was twice elected President of both the California Copyright Conference and Association of Independent Music Publishers. He has also written numerous magazine articles on the subject of the music business and has lectured on a variety of music-related topics at various symposia.
Steve is the author of the book “Music Publishing: The Complete Guide”, published in 2013. He was awarded the 2012 Texas Star Award by the Texas State Bar Entertainment and Sports Law section for his contributions to legal education in the State of Texas.
_________________________________
Check out the free, helpful YouTube videos and the sample split sheet on the Music Publishing: The Complete Guide website:
www.musicpublishing-completeguide.com/
To find our more about Steve Winogradsky's legal services with his company, Winogradsky/Sobel, click on this link:
www.winogradskysobel.com
__________________________________________

ABOUT STEVE'S NEW BOOK "MUSIC PUBLISHING: THE COMPLETE GUIDE"
In the March 2014 issue of Music Connection magazine, the reviewer says, "Author, attorney, and longtime advocate for creators, Steve Winogradsky delivers the definitive manual on music copyright with his new book. Simple terms and complex issues: read Winogradsky before you sign anything."
At the September 2013 NSAI San Diego meeting, Special Guest Barbie Quinn of BMI said this is an amazing book with everything a songwriter needs to know about publishing, PROs, work-for-hire forms, contracts, etc.
Steve will have copies of his book at the April 27 meeting. The retail price is $79.99 plus $2.00 shipping, but Steve is offering a special discount to San Diego songwriters: $60 and he'll even autograph it for you. If you missed the NSAI San Diego Meeting but would like to buy Steve's book, click HERE.
In the March 2014 issue of Music Connection magazine, the reviewer says, "Author, attorney, and longtime advocate for creators, Steve Winogradsky delivers the definitive manual on music copyright with his new book. Simple terms and complex issues: read Winogradsky before you sign anything."
At the September 2013 NSAI San Diego meeting, Special Guest Barbie Quinn of BMI said this is an amazing book with everything a songwriter needs to know about publishing, PROs, work-for-hire forms, contracts, etc.
Steve will have copies of his book at the April 27 meeting. The retail price is $79.99 plus $2.00 shipping, but Steve is offering a special discount to San Diego songwriters: $60 and he'll even autograph it for you. If you missed the NSAI San Diego Meeting but would like to buy Steve's book, click HERE.
January 2014 Meeting - Co-Op Event with SDSG

The San Diego Songwriters Guild presented a meeting and listening session with Jim Attebery of the Durango Songwriter's Expo on Monday, Jan. 13, 2014, at 7:00 p.m. at Studio West in Rancho Bernardo. Admission was free for SDSG and NSAI members and $10 for non-members. Cost for the pitch was $10 per song. For more details, click HERE.
Nashville Publisher Pitch with Steve Bloch - November 2013
Sunday, November 24, 2013:
NASHVILLE PITCH SESSION with Publisher and A&R Rep STEVE BLOCH. THIS EVENT SOLD OUT! One-On-One Mentor Sessions with STEVE BLOCH were available on Sat., Nov. 23 and Mon., Nov. 25.
Cost: $20 for non-members; $10 for NSAI & SDSG members
How To Pay: Bring cash or a check made payable to SongMaker Productions at the door or pay in advance with
PayPal using the email address tvmarino@cox.net
Topic: SPECIAL Nashville Pitch Session with Publisher and A&R Rep Steve Bloch
After Pitch: Meet & Greet Reception to follow. Light refreshments will be served.
NASHVILLE PITCH SESSION with Publisher and A&R Rep STEVE BLOCH. THIS EVENT SOLD OUT! One-On-One Mentor Sessions with STEVE BLOCH were available on Sat., Nov. 23 and Mon., Nov. 25.
Cost: $20 for non-members; $10 for NSAI & SDSG members
How To Pay: Bring cash or a check made payable to SongMaker Productions at the door or pay in advance with
PayPal using the email address tvmarino@cox.net
Topic: SPECIAL Nashville Pitch Session with Publisher and A&R Rep Steve Bloch
After Pitch: Meet & Greet Reception to follow. Light refreshments will be served.

BIO for STEVE BLOCH, Publisher and A&R Rep. After a decade of success with his LA based talent agency, ENTERTAINMENT ASSOCIATES, Bloch segued into publishing and founded SOUTHERN COW MUSIC in 1991, moved his headquarters to Nashville in 1993, and hasn't looked back. His boutique publishing company garnered cuts with Faith Hill, Lee Ann Womack, Rebecca Lynn Howard, and Lee Greenwood. In addition, he secured cuts with Kenny Chesney, John Berry, Tracy Byrd and Lila McCann, while independently pitching songs for Gary Burr, Tom Damphier, Greg Barnhill, and Pat Bunch, among others.
In the late 90's, he was hired by Doug Johnson, label head at GIANT RECORDS, to do independent A&R for the label where he generated cuts for Clay Walker, Keith Harling, and Blake Shelton. In 2003, he co-founded WRITER ZONE MUSIC, LLC., a uniquely innovative publishing company. Writers who came on board with a high level of past measurable success (#1 songs) share equity in the company. Writer/Partners include Thom Schuyler (“16th Ave.”/Lacy J. Dalton), Rand Bishop (“My List”/Toby Keith) and Jon Robbin (“I Breathe In I Breathe Out”/Chris Cagle).
In October of 2011, Doug Johnson left Curb to become the creative head of BLACK RIVER ENTERTAINMENT, and he has once again reached out to Steve to assist him in finding the best material for his artists, including Craig Morgan, Kellie Pickler, Sarah Darling, and Glen Templeton.
Steve is a frequent guest of the West Coast Songwriters Association, the Durango Songwriters Expo, the Arizona Songwriters Association, TAXI, and various SGA and NSAI events. He is an NSAI Pro-on-the Road, leads two classes on line for SongU.com, and twice a month sources the ever-growing “Lucky 13” Speed Pitch event.
As Steve says, "You never know where you’ll find the magic."
In the late 90's, he was hired by Doug Johnson, label head at GIANT RECORDS, to do independent A&R for the label where he generated cuts for Clay Walker, Keith Harling, and Blake Shelton. In 2003, he co-founded WRITER ZONE MUSIC, LLC., a uniquely innovative publishing company. Writers who came on board with a high level of past measurable success (#1 songs) share equity in the company. Writer/Partners include Thom Schuyler (“16th Ave.”/Lacy J. Dalton), Rand Bishop (“My List”/Toby Keith) and Jon Robbin (“I Breathe In I Breathe Out”/Chris Cagle).
In October of 2011, Doug Johnson left Curb to become the creative head of BLACK RIVER ENTERTAINMENT, and he has once again reached out to Steve to assist him in finding the best material for his artists, including Craig Morgan, Kellie Pickler, Sarah Darling, and Glen Templeton.
Steve is a frequent guest of the West Coast Songwriters Association, the Durango Songwriters Expo, the Arizona Songwriters Association, TAXI, and various SGA and NSAI events. He is an NSAI Pro-on-the Road, leads two classes on line for SongU.com, and twice a month sources the ever-growing “Lucky 13” Speed Pitch event.
As Steve says, "You never know where you’ll find the magic."
BMI Rep Barbie Quinn is September 2014 Guest
September 15, 2013: NSAI Pro Teacher Workshop Video: Every month, the meeting starts off with a recap and highlights of an NSAI video. This month's Pro Video Teacher: Ralph Murphy. Ralph is a Hit Songwriter, past President of NSAI, and a frequent panelist for the ASCAP "I Create Music" Expo and the annual Taxi Road Rally. He teaches classes about songwriting around the world and is author of the book, "Murphy's Laws of Songwriting." The topic of this video: "How Publishing Works & the PROs." NSAI Members: Click HERE to watch this month's video. Remember to log in first!
2) Guest Speaker: Barbie Quinn from BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.) will talk about what makes some of the top artists in the music business such as Taylor Swift, Maroon5, Mariah Carey, Carrie Underwood, Lady Gaga, Rhianna, Carlos Santana, Dolly Parton, Composers John Williams and Danny Elfman, and many more, want to be with BMI. She also has an extensive background in publishing and A&R (see the bio below), so she'll give us the scoop on those areas as well. THERE WILL BE PRIZES AND SURPRISES so don't miss this meeting! Sign up to be on the email list by clicking HERE.
Special Guest: Barbie Quinn from BMI

Barbie is currently Associate Director, Distribution & Administrative Services at Broadcast Music Inc. and has been with the organization since January 2012. Her main responsibilities include working with all cable networks to ensure their cue sheets are submitted in a timely and seamless manner, being the publishing liaison with all of the BMI affiliates, and various special projects that come across her desk. Prior to BMI, Barbie had an extensive career in music publishing having worked at EMI Music Publishing for 10 years followed by Warner Chappell Music for 15 years. Her EMI career began with a short period in the accounting department of Capitol Records, then hearing of an opening in the International department of the publishing company, jumped at the chance to learn about songwriters and their craft. She quickly rose to Manager, International Creative and signed many writers and catalogs to sub-publishing deals. While at EMI, she asked to be relocated to the London office where she worked for a year and furthered her knowledge of the international markets. Les Bider, Chairman & CEO of Warner Chappell Music hired Barbie as Director, International Creative just after Warner Music acquired Chappell Music. Her first job was to help blend the various international offices as well as the two major catalogs in the foreign markets. She continued to sign many profitable songwriters and catalogs for the international territories as well as for the world and was promoted to VP, International Creative A&R. When Time Warner sold the Warner Music Group, Barbie took some time off to travel with her son and get involved with the schools and community affairs. Missing the music industry tremendously, Barbie is very happy to be at BMI where she can give back to songwriters so much of what they have given to her.
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Studio Tips from Producer Andy Machin
July 21, 2013: NSAI Pro Teacher Workshop Video: Every month, the meeting starts off with a recap and highlights of an NSAI video. Teacher: Dave Isaacs Topic: "The Music In Your Head"
Guest Speaker Andy Machin of Big Rock Studios presents "Get Your Songs Ready for the Studio"

Andy Machin is a Producer, Songwriter, Muli-talented Musician, and Studio Owner who will talk about how to get your songs ready for a professional recording session. For more information about Big Rock Studios, click HERE. There will also be a drawing for two FREE hours of studio time with Andy Machin at Big Rock Studios in North Escondido.
Originally from San Antonio, Texas, Andy relocated to Southern California and graduated from UCSD in La Jolla, California, with degrees in Music and Engineering. In addition to being a sought-after Producer, Mixer and Engineer, Andy is an award-winning songwriter/artist/guitarist. He is a member of Seventhings (Machin and partner Margaret McClure) and a founding member of the writing team The System (Machin, McClure, Bev Nelson and Cliff Nelson).
He has produced albums in various styles, including; Rock, Pop, R&B, Hip Hop, Hot AC, Country, New Age and Metal. As a songwriter he’s penned for various artists including Star De Azlan, Tim Flannery, Nikki Wilkins, Sherry Lavelle, Lucas Ciliberti, and Carpool, which was an album co-written with Kim Fowley. He has had hundreds of film/TV placements including, ESPN’s “Surfer Magazine”, MTV and even the theme song for a national ad campaign for PCH Clothing. Recently he composed, produced and recorded the score to the award- winning independent film “Death, The Desert and Joe”. Andy excels in the following: guitar, mandolin, bass, vocals, percussion, keyboards, digital editing, MIDI production and drum programming. Big Rock Studios clients include: Steve Poltz, Bruce Hornsby, Randi Driscoll, Spud Davenport, SDSG's President, Tim Mudd, and former San Diego Padres Trevor Hoffman.
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Originally from San Antonio, Texas, Andy relocated to Southern California and graduated from UCSD in La Jolla, California, with degrees in Music and Engineering. In addition to being a sought-after Producer, Mixer and Engineer, Andy is an award-winning songwriter/artist/guitarist. He is a member of Seventhings (Machin and partner Margaret McClure) and a founding member of the writing team The System (Machin, McClure, Bev Nelson and Cliff Nelson).
He has produced albums in various styles, including; Rock, Pop, R&B, Hip Hop, Hot AC, Country, New Age and Metal. As a songwriter he’s penned for various artists including Star De Azlan, Tim Flannery, Nikki Wilkins, Sherry Lavelle, Lucas Ciliberti, and Carpool, which was an album co-written with Kim Fowley. He has had hundreds of film/TV placements including, ESPN’s “Surfer Magazine”, MTV and even the theme song for a national ad campaign for PCH Clothing. Recently he composed, produced and recorded the score to the award- winning independent film “Death, The Desert and Joe”. Andy excels in the following: guitar, mandolin, bass, vocals, percussion, keyboards, digital editing, MIDI production and drum programming. Big Rock Studios clients include: Steve Poltz, Bruce Hornsby, Randi Driscoll, Spud Davenport, SDSG's President, Tim Mudd, and former San Diego Padres Trevor Hoffman.
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SESAC Rep Erin Collins is June 2013 Meeting Special Guest

Erin Collins is the Vice President, Film, Television & Developing Media at SESAC, which is the third (and smallest) of the three PROs (Performing Rights Organizations) in the United States. She'll be talking about the 6th Annual SESAC Songwriters Boot Camp taking place on Friday, July 26, in Los Angeles.
Erin works closely with the Los Angeles staff and SESAC’s film, television, and developing media writers and music publishers. She also assists SESAC in identifying film, television, and other media composers for affiliation with SESAC. Erin began her career in film and television with Warner Bros. Publications where she was responsible for creating and managing multi-media marketing budgets as well as developing advertising campaigns. She then served as Director of Marketing & Music Production for APM Music where she was in charge of creating, managing and supporting all online and offline creative, music, promotions, PR, branding, print advertising and portfolio marketing for the likes of MTV, Discovery, the major television networks (ABC, CBS, NBC), HBO, Fox, among many others. Before joining SESAC, Collins was Producer/Music Supervisor at London Green Studios working with clients such as Ubisoft, Activision, EA and THQ. Erin holds a degree from Northern Illinois University.
Erin works closely with the Los Angeles staff and SESAC’s film, television, and developing media writers and music publishers. She also assists SESAC in identifying film, television, and other media composers for affiliation with SESAC. Erin began her career in film and television with Warner Bros. Publications where she was responsible for creating and managing multi-media marketing budgets as well as developing advertising campaigns. She then served as Director of Marketing & Music Production for APM Music where she was in charge of creating, managing and supporting all online and offline creative, music, promotions, PR, branding, print advertising and portfolio marketing for the likes of MTV, Discovery, the major television networks (ABC, CBS, NBC), HBO, Fox, among many others. Before joining SESAC, Collins was Producer/Music Supervisor at London Green Studios working with clients such as Ubisoft, Activision, EA and THQ. Erin holds a degree from Northern Illinois University.
June 16, 2013: NSAI Pro Teacher Workshop Video: Recap and highlights of the video featuring: our very own Adopt-A-Shop Pro Jeff Dayton; Topic: "Presenting a Better Song to a Publisher" NSAI Members: To view the video, first log onto the NSAI website by clicking HERE, then to watch the 1-hour video, click HERE.
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Pro Singer-Songwriter & Author Warren Sellers for May 2013 Meeting

Sunday, May 19, 2013: Guest Warren Sellers is a singer-songwriter from Irvine, CA. Warren is a long-time panelist and performer at the Durango Songwriter's Expo. He has been a staff writer for McJames Music and Windswept Pacific/3Ring Circus (Jeffrey Steele's company). His main genres are Country, Pop, Rock, and Christian music, and he has had cuts with award-winning Canadian artist Shane Yellowbird and with Dawson Reigns. Reigns took "If Crazy Wasn't So Beautiful" to #22 on the Canadian charts. Warren has also had cuts with Jonell Mosser, Scott Krippayne, Jonathan Kingham, Toni Catlin, Brent Lamb, and many others. Warren gave helpful and thoughtful feedback on songs and lyrics, and we were delighted to have him as our guest for this month's meeting.

NSAI San Diego May 19, 2013 Meeting with Guest Pro Singer-Songwriter Warren Sellers (center, seated on the sofa). Back row: Marissa, Jim U., Cliff, Vance, Mary Ann, Sierra, Jim B., Vivian, Charlie, Laurel, Spud. Front row: Karin, Diana, Warren, Joyce, Ardis, and Brenda. Attendees not shown: Don, Rosalie, Tracey.
Recap and highlights of the NSAI Pro Teacher Video featuring Nashville Hit Songwriting team (and brothers) Jim and Brett Beavers. Topic: "Co-Writing: Whose Line Is It, Anyway?" Jim Beavers says you have to “kiss a bunch of frogs” and have "blind dates" with co-writers you don’t know to find a few that you work well with. Brett Beavers says he spends a lot of time banging on a guitar, mumbling and "speaking in tongues," hoping a title drops out. These brothers have had many hits together, and in various combinations with other writers in town. Their Pro Teacher Night was informative on the protocol of co-writing, how it’s different in Nashville and other practical matters, and the two of them are always funny. The surprising thing about their talk was how spiritual, heartfelt and deep their feelings about songwriting are. NSAI Members: To view the video, first log onto the NSAI website by clicking HERE, then to watch the 1-hour video, click HERE.
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ASCAP Rep Charlyn Bernal is Special Guest for March 17, 2013 Meeting

Presentation by our Guest Speaker. This month, we have Ms. Charlyn Bernal, who is the Associate Director of Film & Television at ASCAP, Los Angeles. If you've ever wondered how to get paid in the music business, this meeting is for YOU! Charlyn will explain what PROs (Performing Rights Organizations) do and how they collect royalties for songwriters, publishers, and performers. Charlyn is an accomplished composer, musician, and orchestrator (her bio is below). She is a wealth of information and has first-hand knowledge about: Music Licensing, Songwriting, Music Supervision, Copyright Law, Film Scoring, and Studio Recording.
Film & TV Music Publishers are Special Guests for February 2013
A BIG THANKS TO OUR SPECIAL GUESTS at the February meeting, Wenty Morris & D.A. Young! We had a huge turnout of 50 people, and everyone walked away with valuable information. Wenty & D.A. heard some great songs and gave helpful and honest feedback to the packed room.
Wenty Morris and D.A. Young, Publishers and Owners of Morris and Young Music Library in Los Angeles, have placed several hundred instrumentals and songs in shows including MTV's "I Used To Be Fat" and "Tough Love; "Access Hollywood," "Everybody Hates Chris,"; FOX Sports Major League Baseball and NHL Hockey; and the film "Clueless," just to name a few. Wenty and D.A. discussed what they look for when signing new composers and songwriters; how they work with Music Supervisors; what to know when writing instrumentals and songs for film and TV placements, etc. For more information about our guest speakers and their music library, click HERE.
Wenty Morris and D.A. Young, Publishers and Owners of Morris and Young Music Library in Los Angeles, have placed several hundred instrumentals and songs in shows including MTV's "I Used To Be Fat" and "Tough Love; "Access Hollywood," "Everybody Hates Chris,"; FOX Sports Major League Baseball and NHL Hockey; and the film "Clueless," just to name a few. Wenty and D.A. discussed what they look for when signing new composers and songwriters; how they work with Music Supervisors; what to know when writing instrumentals and songs for film and TV placements, etc. For more information about our guest speakers and their music library, click HERE.

Several people stayed after the meeting to meet the guests. Front row: Publisher D.A. Young, Coordinator Joyce Ann Martin, Publisher Wenty Morris, Coordinators Tracey and Vance Marino. Back rows: NSAI members and visitors from San Diego Songwriters Meet Up Group, including Cliff Keller (center) and Past Coordinator Liz Axford (far right). Special thanks to Pastor Mark Dahle for taking the great photos!
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Master Songwriting Workshop in January 2013

On Saturday, Jan. 5, 2013, Steve Seskin, Craig Carothers, and Don Henry (center, seated) gave a fantastic all-day workshop for 18 attendees. They gave helpful feedback on songs, offered tips on lyric writing, and even shared some "insider" secrets about the music industry in Nashville. It was a great way to start off the New Year!
Nashville Comes To La Jolla - Hit Songwriters Concert

Don Henry, Steve Seskin, and Craig Carothers performed for a packed house on Friday, Jan. 4, 2013, at the Upstairs Concert Room at La Jolla Lutheran Church. They told inspiring stories to an attentive and enthusiastic audience about how they wrote their songs. A great time was had by all!