Wanted: Songwriters

CEBU, Philippines - Aspiring Cebuano songwriters, who are 18 to 35 years old, with original song ideas, are called to join a songwriters camp and to take part in the OPM revolution.

Only 20 slots are available for participants from Visayas to the first-ever Elements National Songwriting Camp to be held in Dumaguete City, Oriental Negros from November 14-18, this year.

Organized by the Maestro of Original Pilipino Music Ryan Cayabyab and 7101 Music Nation – an organization dedicated to discover and develop local artistry in Philippine music - the songwriters camp will be facilitated by renowned songwriters and musicians such as Jim Paredes (Apo Hiking Society), Jay Durias (South Border), Joey Benin (Side A), Chito Miranda (Parokya ni Edgar), Gabby Alipe (Urbandub) and Yael Yuzon (Sponge Cola); with Noel Cabangon, Gary Granada, Jonathan Manalo, Jungee Marcelo, Trina Belamide, Joey Ayala, Gary Valenciano, and many more.

Participants are to undergo workshops and trainings through case studies, interactive outdoor sessions, music games, group activities, and one-on-one consultations.

Modules that will be presented are History 101, Basic Music Creation, Lyrics, Beyond Music and Words, Commercial Music Structures, The Music Producer, Publishing and New Business Trends, Music and Technology, Music Videos and Production, and Music Inspiration.

Only 60 applicants will be accepted to participate in the workshop for free.

Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao will be allotted 20 slots each with Cayabyab and his team, composed of esteemed songwriters, to conduct the screening of applicants.

Interested songwriters who want to try out must log on to www.7101 musicnation.com.ph.

Applications will be entertained until August 22, 2010.

The final list of those who will go to Dumaguete will be announced on September 22.

“It’s a serious workshop. Meaning, we are looking for songwriters who are serious in their intent to contribute to Philippine music,” Cayabyab said.