May 9-11, 2008
Cris writes: “I am a songwriter. I started writing songs because I had something to say and needed a way to say it. And because I want to live in a world of poets, with more beauty, I wondered if I could teach others how to make a song. Could I provide a recipe to help them express what was dying to get out? Writing a song really is like baking a cake. There are lots of recipes, each one promising a different result, but each recipe has certain basic elements. So, too, with song writing.
“We will examine this particular condensed craft using a lyrical approach to song writing. We will write together in small groups, and we’ll write alone and apart. We’ll work with rhyme using our natural abilities, as well as a rhyming dictionary. We’ll choose our words carefully using our experienced minds, and we’ll use the almighty thesaurus.
“You need not be a songwriter or a musician to participate, you need only courage, patience, attention, and perseverance. By Sunday, with luck and work, you’ll have written a song and have the tools to continue. Bring courage, joy, and a seeker’s heart and mind. Bring an instrument if you play one, and a keyboard will be available. Works-in-progress are fine, too. I’ll help you turn them into songs.
“I believe that the making of art is a compassionate act, a gift to the world. Join me as we divine the water of music and song. Sign up soon, as space is limited. All are welcome on this Mother’s Day weekend. Send your mom! Send yourself!”
Cris Williamson was changing the face of popular music, with a worldwide impact, long before independent labels were the norm. Her concept of a national all-women’s record company took form and released her now-legendary classic, The Changer and the Changed, one of the best-selling independent releases of all time. Women became free to write, produce, record, and issue their own material on their own terms. With her fresh, bold sound and astounding vocals, she was heralded by The Boston Globe as “a brilliant lyricist and composer.” A dynamic performer who sold out Carnegie Hall three times, she continues to traverse the musical and lyrical map. She electrifies, empowers, and enlightens audiences across the generational and musical spectrum. Her brand new release, Fringe, is about returning home – in body, spirit, and memory, and we’re honored to welcome the return of an old friend of Rowe who has been away for too long.
“The first time I heard Cris’ music, it was like hearing honey dripped on a cello...Cris has been a whole lot of women’s heroes — including mine.” — Bonnie Raitt