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A Year to Remember: Songwriting for Non-Songwriters Turns Curiosity, Courage, Creativity & Compassion into Connection

  • Ben Drysdale
  • 4 days ago
  • 5 min read

What a year it's been! As we wrap up the first full year of Songwriting for Non-Songwriters, there's so much to celebrate, reflect on, and share with everyone who's been part of this incredible journey: whether you've joined a course, attended a free session, or simply supported from the sidelines.


When this program first launched, the vision was simple: create a space where everyday people could discover the transformative power of songwriting, regardless of their musical background. What's emerged has been something far more beautiful than initially imagined: a thriving community built on what we've come to call the Four C's: Curiosity, Courage, Creativity, and Compassion.

The Four C's: The Heart of Our Community

These aren't just buzzwords: they're the living, breathing values that every participant has brought to this program, creating ripple effects that extend far beyond the classroom.

  • Curiosity has been the starting point for everyone. Whether it's a retiree wondering "what if I tried something completely new?" or a busy parent asking "could I actually write a song about my experiences?", that initial spark of wonder has opened doors to incredible discoveries.

  • Courage shows up in every single person who decides to share their first lyric, hum their melody idea, or simply show up to a session not knowing what to expect. It takes real bravery to put your creativity on the line, especially when you've never considered yourself "musical."

  • Creativity has flowed in the most unexpected ways. Participants have drawn inspiration from everything: childhood memories, work frustrations, family dynamics, social issues, personal triumphs. The diversity of stories and musical styles has been absolutely stunning.

  • Compassion might be the most powerful element of all. The way participants support each other, celebrate breakthroughs, and create safe spaces for vulnerability has been the backbone of every successful session and course.

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By the Numbers: A Year of Impact

The statistics from our first year tell an incredible story of connection and creativity:


Free Sessions That Opened Doors Over 16 free "Elements of Songwriting" sessions delivered 30 hours of learning to 60 people from all walks of life. These weren't just educational: they were taster sessions that helped people realize songwriting was accessible to them.

The sessions were thoughtfully designed for different lifestyles: 5 sessions specifically for the "9-5ers grind" attracted 19 participants juggling day jobs and creative dreams, while 11 sessions for retirees and midday creatives brought together 41 people with more flexible schedules but no less passion.


The Online Program: Building Real Songwriters 42 brave souls took the leap into the full online program, spread across 6 different groups. What makes this number even more special? These weren't just random people: they came from every Australian state except the Northern Territory and South Australia, plus one international participant from Georgia (the country!).

The diversity wasn't just geographic. The groups included teachers, tradies, healthcare workers, students, parents, grandparents, and everyone in between. Ages ranged across decades, and musical experience ranged from "I've never touched an instrument" to "I play guitar but never wrote a song."


Real Songs, Real Progress Here's where the magic really happened: 30 people who started as non-songwriters successfully transformed into actual songwriters. While not everyone could complete the full program due to life circumstances, and some are still working through the process, the conversion rate speaks volumes about both the program's effectiveness and the participants' dedication.


Even more exciting? These new songwriters have created 24 completed songs, with another 6 works in progress. These aren't just exercises or sketches: these are full, heartfelt songs that tell real stories and express genuine emotions.


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Breaking Down Barriers: The Scholarship Program

One of the most meaningful aspects of this first year has been the scholarship program, which awarded $2,600 to ensure creativity isn't limited by financial circumstances.


7 full scholarships and 5 partial scholarships went to people who brought incredible stories and perspectives to the program: people living with disabilities, those facing mental health challenges, First Nations folks, single parents, and others who needed that extra support to access creative opportunities.


The songs that emerged from scholarship recipients were some of the most powerful and moving of the entire year. When barriers are removed and people are given the chance to express themselves, the results are often extraordinary.

More Than Just Music: Community Impact

What started as a songwriting program has evolved into something much deeper: a community where people discover not just their musical voice, but often their authentic voice in general.


Participants regularly share how the process has helped them:

  • Process difficult emotions and experiences

  • Build confidence in other areas of their lives

  • Connect with family members through shared creativity

  • Find new ways to express themselves beyond words

  • Develop patience and self-compassion through the creative process


The songs themselves tell incredible stories: everything from tributes to lost loved ones to celebrations of personal growth, from social commentary to pure joy. Each one represents someone finding their voice and sharing it with the world.


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Looking at What We've Built

This first year has proven something remarkable: when you create the right environment: one filled with Curiosity, Courage, Creativity, and Compassion: ordinary people do extraordinary things.


The program has never been about creating the next chart-topping hit or discovering hidden musical prodigies. It's been about helping people connect with themselves and others through the universal language of music and storytelling.


Every awkward first attempt at rhyming, every breakthrough moment when a melody finally clicks, every time someone shares their song and receives genuine appreciation: these are the moments that matter.

The Ripple Effect

Perhaps the most beautiful part of this journey has been watching the ripple effects. Participants go home and share their new skills with family members. They approach other challenges in their lives with the same creative problem-solving they've learned in songwriting. They become more open to other people's stories and experiences.


The Four C's aren't just values for the classroom: they're life skills that participants carry into their relationships, workplaces, and communities.

Gratitude and Looking Forward

To everyone who has been part of this first year: whether as a participant, supporter, or curious observer: thank you. You've helped create something special, and your energy and enthusiasm have made every session a joy.


For those who've been watching from the sidelines, wondering if this might be for you: this year has proven that songwriting truly is for everyone. The community is welcoming, the process is accessible, and the rewards go far beyond music.


As we head into year two, the foundation is solid: a proven program, an incredible community, and a clear mission to keep breaking down barriers between people and their creative potential.


The songs may be finished, but the story is just beginning.




Let's Write!

Interested in learning more about Songwriting for Non-Songwriters? Visit our program page to discover how you can be part of our growing community of everyday songwriters.

 
 
 

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