If you live in Central Illinois and you write songs (from beginner to pro), here are some need-to-know resources.
C-U Soireé Musicale
A listening-room open-mic-ish, 7pm (usually) first Sundays of each month held at Channing Murray chapel. Sponsored by Right Here Music. Co-organized by Mark Aardsma and Rick Mouché. Advanced sign-up required to perform. Free and open to all to attend. See FAQ’s. You can follow this event on Facebook. If you are interested in performing or receiving reminders to attend, signup for the musicale email list (separate from the Right Here Music email list). This is a supportive and quiet room to perform your music in, and a place to make connections to like-minded musicians.
Songs-in-Progress Champaign-Urbana
This is a place to bring original songs you are working on, and receive feedback from the other songwriters in the room. Usually second Sundays at each month. Follows the format of a song circle, each person takes a turn to share a song in its current state, and receive supportive feedback. They welcome songwriters at any level. First song you’ve ever written? They want to hear it – or help you create it! They believe in the inherent value of songwriting as a reflective and creative practice. Organized and hosted by Jon Hoekstra in his home in Urbana, IL. To get on the email list and get invites to Songs in Progress events, reach out to Jon at dochoekstra@gmail.com.
The Urbana Hootenanny
Every Monday at the Rose Bowl Tavern in Urbana, IL, 8pm to midnight-ish. This is a thriving community of local musicians. Part open mic, part jam session. Acoustic only (no plugging in). Tends toward old-time country and Americana players, though radically inclusive of any style, spoken word, etc. A good place to get practice playing out, and meet others in the local musician community. Hosted in rotation by Clayton, Emily, and Brad, all super-kind must-know local songwriters. Just show up and find the host to get on the list.
CU Folk and Roots Festival
Held each fall in downtown Urbana, IL, a music festival with many venues and artists to see in a weekend. Also offers some jams and workshops. See: https://folkandroots.org/
Right Here Music Songwriter Announcements
Local songwriters, sign up for our emails and/or texts. We send a few messages per month sharing local songwriter-relevant events and opportunities.