After a busy summer, the Songwriter Stage is back starting September 26!

Edmonton's All Original Songwriter Stage, hosted by Rhea March, is moving to a new home. Join us at Expressionz Cafe, 9938 70 Ave., Sunday evenings from 7-10 p.m.

The purpose of the U22 program is to provide:

• inspiration,
  
• positive reinforcement,
  
• performance coaching,
  
• songwriting guidance,
  
• industry knowledge,
• and credible performance opportunities.

As of Fall 2009, U22 has produced over 250 concerts featuring U22 artists, hosted radio shows on CKUA, showcased performers for the past two years at the prestigious Edmonton Folk Music Festival. Most recently U22 was the subject of a one hour television special filmed by CBC, featuring 10 of Alberta's best rising young songwriters. U22 is community focused and has featured artists at over 40 charitable events and fundraisers in 2009.

The U22 program is three-tiered and designed to advance the careers of songwriters and musicians alike.

• tier 1

The first tier is all about development. Artists are welcomed into the U22 community after being interviewed and musically assessed. U22 looks for originality, authenticity, potential and dedication to their craft. Once accepted, artists are given the opportunity to develop their skills by working with highly regarded industry professionals. Mentors will give the feedback needed and ensure the artist has a chance perform on stage at a variety of venues. U22 firmly believes that an artist doesn't grow as a musician if they don't have the opportunity to perform.

Look for U22 to host a weekly Sunday Night Songwriter Stage after a hiatus for the summer. The stage is an excellent opportunity for songwriters to introduce themselves not only to U22 but to other musicians in the songwriting community. The Sunday night sessions are recorded for podcast, offering musicians the valuable tool of listening back to their set.

• tier 2

The second tier focuses on songwriting, performance and stage presence. U22 regularly produces music workshops where U22 artists are mentored by vetera musicians and respected industry professionals. In addition to these sessions, U22 offers one on one coaching and specializes in on stage performance enhancement. In level two, U22's will begin to be paid for their performances and will grow their skills and their notoriety by performing at larger venues. At this level, the artists will likely be ready to begin recording and U22 is there to give direction in help in applying for funding and grants.

• tier 3

The performers at level three are those who have a radio quality recording and are capable of giving a polished, professional and entertaining performance at a grand concert level. These are the best of the best and they will be given the chance to grace the finest stages in Alberta. This is where their career is launched; by working with the U22 program, they will be fully ready to embrace the challenges ahead. U22 will work with the level three's in choosing appropriate managers, producers, agents, and distribution. Level three's will be actively involved in mentoring the level one & two artists.

U22 is able to offer a number of entertainment services, and provide the artists with the mentorship needed to develop their career. Rhea March has specialized skills in all aspects of performance enhancement and brings over 30 years of industry experience to U22, realizing her life's passion to share her experience with exceptional emerging artists.

Music Mentorship

• One on one performance assessment, enhancement and development
• Consultation with solo artists and bands to polish their performance
• Prepare artists for touring and live performance
• Foster a music community by encouraging co-writing and collaboration
• Facilitate music and mentorship workshops geared to singer songwriters

Performance Coaching (one on one or group sessions) specializing in:

• Stage presence
• Connecting with the audience
• Mic technique
• Venue etiquette and protocol
• Self promotion
• Image development

Educational Mentorship

• Working with schools and educational facilities to provide mentorship and instructional clinics, as well as team building and career opportunities
• Provide on campus team building excises through music
• Offer career advise and direction to young musicians
• Assemble and contract top session musicians and mentors to work one on one with the students
• Hands on instrument workshops and sectional instruction

Event Production

• Coordination of arts events, concerts and showcases of all sizes
• Booking showcases for U22 artists at concerts and festivals
• Working in partnership with other non profit organizations to provide entertainment for their fundraising events
• Work in conjunction with talent buyers and producers, to select the most suitable artists for their events

Recording

• Facilitating all aspects of the recording process
• Pairing artists with studios and producers most suited to the artist
• Providing access to the best session musicians and talent available
• Advising on song selection
• Working on pre production with the artist and producer

Grants and Funding

• Advise on funding schedules and project specific funding opportunities that best apply to the artist
• Provide referral to qualified grant writers
• Liaison to industry associations and funding bodies
• Create funding plans and sponsorship packages

Booking

• Work with the artist and venue to book suitable performances
• Assist in the coordination and logistics of tour booking
• Negotiate and administer booking agreements and contracts
• Oversee all live performance opportunities to ensure the artist is well represented

Management

• Consult with the artist and family to develop the best options for the artist's career
• Create realistic 1,3,and 5 year goals
• Develop business and strategic action plans to achieve the artist's career goals
• Select and advise upon distribution channels for the artist
• Connect the artist with respected industry professionals who have the skills and potential to forward the artist's career
• Provide access to exclusive social networks
• Work in the artist's best interest to negotiate all contracts and agreements

Promotion

• Develop brand awareness
• Create long term marketing and promotional plans
• Create an effective and consistent marketing strategy
• Increase public awareness through publicity and public relations
• Provide access to an experienced publicist
• Coordinate promotional events

Online Presence & Identity

• Develop an online presence through website and social media profiles
  
• Create strategies for online social and viral marketing

We are pleased to announce that we have acquired a teaching studio and I am now available for one-on-one coaching specializing in Songwriting, Performance and Mic Technique.

Songwriting, mic technique and the art of stage performace are vital components in furthering your career in music. Personalized one on one coaching sessions will be tailored to your specific needs.  My goal is to provide you the tools you need to develop your skills and up your confidence as a performer.

Read on to learn more and to register!