December 2002

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

• flatlandmusic.com @ FOLK ALLIANCE
• Annual General Meeting 2001 Summary
• FLATLAND MUSIC FESTIVAL July 6-8, 2001
• PRAIRIE MUSIC WEEK September 27-30, Edmonton, AB
• THE WRITER'S NET: SONGWRITER DEVELOPMENT!
• INDUSTRY NEWS
• Q & A
• RAMBLINGS FROM A TWISTED MIND: ROADKILL
• JUNO AWARD WINNERS
• SCMA AWARD WINNERS
• SURF DESTINATIONS
• MEMBER CLASSIFIEDS
• NATIONAL EVENTS/FESTIVALS
• UPCOMING GIGS
• ARTIST & STUDIO NEWS
• SEND STUFF HERE
• FUNDING SOURCES
• SONGWRITING PART 14: PROTECTING YOUR COPYRIGHTS
• SASKATCHEWAN INDIE RELEASES

FOLK ALLIANCE

The 13th Annual International Folk Alliance Conference was held in Vancouver, BC, February 15-18. It is rare this event takes place in Canada - it is usually held in the U.S. While a single Saskatchewan artist was chosen for the "official showcases" (congratulations April Verch!), there were a number of artists attending the conference and planning to showcase in a more informal setting, including Susan Bond, Bob Evans, Jennifer Gibson, Eileen Laverty, Rod Laporte and Paddy Tutty. SRIA was able to assist them by setting up two additional conference-sanctioned showcases and promoting all of their performances with an ad in the program, bookmarks hung on every door in the hotel, and a button stating "I Partied With Bob". The "Party With Bob" promotion added a good buzz factor and worked well to promote their shows.

Marian Donnelly attended on SRIA's behalf and reports the event was extremely inspiring from a musical standpoint, with constant activity - networking, showcasing and jamming at all times of the day and night. The conference didn't compete with the hands-on attitude & quality that Prairie Music Week offers, and suffered from a decidedly American focus on issues like funding. The bulk of the delegates were festival producers & radio programmers, so there were a number of deals being done on the spot for future performances. The Saskatchewan talent was well received, and a Thursday showcase attracted a capacity crowd. Saskatchewan artists will now be receiving airplay in markets like Chicago and Seattle.

This initiative was supported by a Cultural Assistance Program travel grant from SaskCulture.

top of page

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2001 SUMMARY

This year's AGM was held on March 25 at the Delta Bessborough, Saskatoon. A good crowd turned out to discuss the events of the past year and what's ahead for SRIA.

Many topics were covered, including:

• SRIA's current financial status;
• The Cultural Industries Development Fund; the Flatland Music Series created as a result of it, and our plans for a touring assistance program for the coming year;
• The Prairie Music Alliance and upcoming Prairie Music Week in Edmonton;
• The Flatland Music Store and SRIA website;
• The elections for the Board of Directors;
• The Flatland Music Festival;
• The newsletter and other membership benefits;
• Changes to member benefits;
• Our new songwriters' series (see article page 5).

One name was put forth for election to the position of President of the Board of Directors. Leroy Harder was appointed by acclamation. Leroy has spent the past two years as a Director, so he is already familiar with the procedures of our organization.

Leroy has a Masters Degree in Chamber Music, and is part of the Fine Arts Faculty at Briercrest College, teaching Music and Recording Arts. He operates Slyngshot Records, and is the owner/operator of Port-Trax Studio. Leroy's production credits in the past year include Sweetsalt, nominated for a Juno Award, and downhere, winners of two Prairie Music Awards

J.P.Ellson was recognized for his six years of hard work and the substantial contribution he has made, not only to our association, but also to our provincial industry. In addition to kudos from a number of members in attendance, a latter of recognition from Honourable Joanne Crofford was read to the assembly. J.P.'s shoes will be hard to fill.

Nine names were put forth for election to the Board of Directors, with four positions available. The following were elected:

• Derek Bachman (Saskatoon): Derek was re-elected for his third term at this year's AGM. He is a multi-talented musician, graphic designer and web designer. He's produced album covers and web sites for many of Saskatchewan's independent recording artists. His work garnered three nominations for Graphic Design at the Prairie Music Awards. Derek was heavily involved in Prairie Music Week 2000, overseeing the festival and website development.
• Chad Guy (Regina): Chad has been actively involved in Saskatchewan's music community for the past eight years, touring and recording with the groups Five Minute Miracle, Source Unknown and Skavenjah. He served a previous term on the board in '97/'98, and worked at SRIA as the Flatland Music Store manager for a year and a half. Chad was the volunteer coordinator for Prairie Music Week 2000 and has been stage manager of the Flatland Music Festival for the past four years. Chad recently accepted the position of Theatre Services Administrator with the Saskatchewan Centre of the Arts.
• Eileen Laverty (Saskatoon): Eileen's debut CD was released in 1999 and is now distributed by Festival. Her first single won the National Songwriting Competition for Saskatchewan, and was one of ten national finalists. The album won a Prairie Music Award for Outstanding Roots Recording. In 2000, some of her many performances included the Saskatchewan Jazz Festival, Ness Creek Music Festival, and the Dawson City Music Festival. Lav is a high school teacher by day.
• Kelly McKeigan (Saskatoon): For ten years, Kelly has working in the music industry in a number of capacities, from playing to tour management to artist management to publicity. Kelly worked with Jones & Co. in Halifax doing publicity for artists like Mary Jane Lamond, Gordie Sampson and Arlibido before moving to Saskatoon last year. Kelly now owns a publicity/promotions company called Public Exposure Media, and manages Five Minute Miracle. In the past year, Kelly traveled as far as Singapore as festival coordinator for several Busker Festivals, and expects to do so again this summer.

We also sincerely thank Jayson Brinkworth, Landis Maitland-Whitelaw, Brian Sklar, Roy Sydiaha and Danny McDonald for running for positions on the board.

The four new board members (along with new president Leroy and past president J.P.) join Rick August, Kim Fontaine, Mike James, Kelly Parker, Dawn Pritchard and Don Warkentin, who are entering the second year of their terms.

Brenda Baker, Rockina Frassetto and Jay Semko finished their terms of office, and chose not to run for re-election. We will miss their contribution to the board, although we know they will continue to be actively involved with SRIA.

Participating and Corporate members who did not attend the meeting will find enclosed a copy of our Annual Report. Please read it over. If you have any questions or comments please give us a call!

top of page

Performing...

The submission deadline for performing is now past. Once again, many waited until the last moment to submit their packages! It looks like we have a very exciting and talented selection to choose from once again. I don't envy our judges one bit. Juries will be proceeding through April and we hope to have the lineup at the end of the month (or early May). As soon as it has been confirmed, you will be able to find it at www.flatlandmusicfestival.com.

Vending...
We have begun to book in Craft and Food vendors for this year's festival. If you know of anyone who is interesting in vending please tell them to contact us. (They can also find all the info online at www.flatlandmusicfestival.com.)

International Year of the Volunteer...
We need you! Be one of the special 200+ volunteers at the festival. We especially are seeking those who have experience in sales, to "move" product in our merchandise areas.

I'd like to take a few moments to remind everyone of the reason we hold this festival:

TO PROMOTE SASKATCHEWAN ARTISTS...

• to a public that may not see you perform otherwise;
• to a public that may not even be aware that a Saskatchewan music scene exists (never mind that it's extremely talented);
• by providing a professional stage, professional lighting, professional sound to perform on, which means a fun and practical performance experience;
• by providing a venue to sell your original product.

We started the Flatland Festival back in 1996 with a little dream of having a nice sound system, a decent crowd, and some good performances. Right from the start we've been amazed with the caliber of talent, and so have the 30,000 fans who come out every year to listen. But we still don't make any money from this event. Just the opposite, in fact. So please do a little bit to ensure that we can continue to put on Flatland, and offer yourself up for volunteering, even if you aren't selected to perform. Thank you!

Please contact us at (306) 347-0676 if you have any comments, suggestions or questions about the festival.

top of page

PRAIRIE MUSIC WEEK September 27-30, Edmonton, AB Jen-eral Manager's Report

by Jen Gibson, Prairie Music Alliance
By now, if you are a member in good standing of ARIA/SRIA/MARIA, you should have received your 2001 Prairie Music Awards information package. That package includes a letter from me, a guide to the awards process, one industry awards nomination form and one awards submission form. Remember, YOU MUST BE A MEMBER TO NOMINATE! If you haven't received the package and you are a member, contact me and we'll figure it out from there. Also, get them in to Mintz & Wallace before May 31, 2001. NO EXCEPTIONS!

If you have any questions, please give me a call or send me an email (306-780-9830, email jennifer@prairiemusicweek.com). There's a lot of information to digest in those packages and I'm here to help!

There are temporary contracted Coordinator positions that will need to be filled over the next four months or so. The first position to come up is that of Conference Coordinator. This job will be located at the Regina office, starting full time in May/June 2001. Duties will include programming the conference, organizing speakers and volunteers, writing up the conference part of the program and arranging travel for all incoming speakers. For more details, please call the office and talk to me (see number above).

Other positions are Festival, Media and (possibly) Volunteer coordinator. These are jobs that will be located in Edmonton, so if you know anyone who might be interested, please have them contact the office as well.

Deadlines are important, so following is the complete list for 2001. Please ensure your membership with ARIA, SRIA or MARIA is up-to-date so you receive all of the mailouts. And you have to be a member before you can nominate anyone for the Prairie Music Awards!

• PMA Eligibility Period: January 1/00 to March 31/01

• Deadline for PMA Submissions: May 31, 2001
• Deadline for Festival Applications: June 29, 2001. (Members will receive an application by mail later this month/early May.)
• Final Nominees/Festival Acts announced first week of August, 2001

That's all for now. I'm off to Edmonton from April 17-20^th for more meetings and event planning. Happy Easter!

top of page

SRIA is pleased to announce our newest hands-on "project"! Considering that 86% of our members are songwriters, we hope this new series will appeal to many.

What is it?

1) Songwriter Performance nights
Already under way in Regina; we have had three successful shows thus far at the Stone's Throw. Some of the writers who have showcased their new work include Carol Donaldson, Dean Kush, Stephanie Thomson, Danny Fortier, Jennifer Kerr, Chris "The Waffleman" Weber, Kory Gibbs and Dana Lloyd, Dave Taylor and many others.

This is an opportunity to come out and perform your original material, including works-in-progress, for experience and feedback in an encouraging and casual setting. A P.A. is provided, often a keyboard is available, and we never who might show up!

This gathering will continue on Sundays, approximately every 2 weeks. Watch for the announcement of Saskatoon dates via email.

The next Regina date will be April 22 at the Stone's Throw Coffee House (1101C Kramer Blvd., near the University) beginning at 7:30 p.m.

2) Songwriter Workshop Series
Beginning in May, we will present our first workshop for songwriters of every level. We're so excited!! Kathy and Lorena "moderate" the event, which will consist of...

• meeting and getting to know your fellow songwriters.
• a brief seminar on one aspect of songwriting (a new topic will be chosen for each workshop)
• presentation/discussion of a specific topic to be worked on in that session
• co-writing breakouts
• performance of your new songs to the rest of the group and a post-mortem discussion

We also have plans to incorporate:

• an evening Songwriter Performance concert in conjunction with the workshop (open to the public)
• one-day and/or concentrated "date with a tape" type sessions with professional national and international songwriters
• live demo recording with a complete band during the session
• topics addressing everything from publishing deals to rhyming schemes

Third Friday of each month: at The Suntree (also on Main St.), 7:30-10 p.m.

top of page

• Canadian institution The Record magazine, which switched to an exclusively-online format in 1999, has abruptly ceased to exist. The void is reportedly to be filled by Canadian Music Network, co-published by promoter Donald K. Tarlton with contributions from (former) Record editor Steve McLean and Zomba Records' Adrian Strong. For more info, visit www.canadianmusicnetwork.com.
• Chad Guy, musician/songwriter (and former SRIA staff member) recently accepted the position of Theatre Services Administrator at the Centre of the Arts. Congratulations, Chadley!
• The Television Bureau of Canada conducts the RETAIL COMP each year to showcase and promote retail TV advertising. The Saskatchewan Cultural Industries Development Council's 30 second Public Service Announcement "Empty World" received an honorable mention in the Public Service Category. The spot was produced by Don Simons at Global Television Regina and is currently running in all Saskatchewan markets.
• Summer School for the Solo Voice is July 22-27, with Musical Theatre at Summer School for the Solo Voice July 8-13. The deadline for applications is May 14. Contact Lisa Hornung at (306) 445-3831 or voiceschool@hotmail.com, www3.sk.sympatico.ca/ljchip.
• The U.S. Congress has approved the creation of a new national registry at the Library of Congress to preserve culturally significant sound recordings, while at the same time protecting the rights of copyright holders. http://www.loc.gov/.
• The American Music Channel, an internet broadcast network devoted exclusively to country music, is online at www.AmericanMusicChannel.com.
• NewMusicWest 2001 - "More fun! Less money! Nothing before noon!" The annual west coast music festival and conference has announced its initial festival lineup. Close to 200 bands and DJs will perform at more than 25 concert venues through the city May 10-12. A full conference pass is also at a lower price than ever before, costing only $99 until April 30, and none of the conference sessions will start until noon. Full conference details, registration form and festival schedules are online at www.newmusicwest.com.
• Emma Lake-Kenderdine Campus (approx. 30 miles north of Prince Albert) - Residency Program (June and September) - Performance artists, musicians, composers and writers are invited to apply. The program provides workspace, accommodation & meals in a retreat environment where you can work independently on your own project(s) for a period of 1-3 weeks. Weekly fee of $225 covers meals, accommodation and studio costs. For information on this and other Campus of the Arts summer programs, contact Kate Hobin, (306) 966-8675 or (306) 966-2463, email emma.lake@usask.ca, www.extension.usask.ca/go/emmalake.
• Student Summer Piano Workshop - Conservatory of Performing Arts, Regina, August 20-24. With Dr. Joan Miller and Conservatory piano faculty. 10 years & up, minimum Grade 4 piano. $125. Info: Janis Prpich, (306) 585-5835; Tanya Myles (306) 585-5795, tanyamyles@sasktel.net; or the Conservatory office at (306) 585-5830.
• The Regina Summer String Workshop - co-sponsored by the SOA and the University of Regina, Conservatory of Performing Arts, July 9-14 at the College Avenue Campus, U of R. This year's workshop will feature both orchestral and small ensemble playing. Three categories of experience to choose from (Junior, Intermediate and Senior). Additional mini-workshops will be held throughout the week. The Guest Clinician will be Eduard Minevich - RSO Concertmaster. Prerequisite: A basic knowledge of note-reading and a couple of years experience on your instrument. Workshop $140, additional siblings $115/ea. Late fee after June 15, $15. For info contact Nadine Bursey - Workshop Coordinator, (306) 586-1384 or write Conservatory of Music and Dance, College Ave. Campus, University of Regina, Regina, SK S4S 0A2.
• Ness Creek Festival - Early Bird Tickets only $45 until April 30. Select-a-Seat, (306) 938-7800 or 1-800-970-7328.
• Canada Disc & Tape has opened in Saskatoon. Established in 1988, it is a CINRAM Industry Partner, whose services include replication of CD-ROM, audio/video/ photo/enhanced CD, shaped CD, DVD, CD-R, floppy disk, VHS and audio cassette duplication. They use a 5.1 Surround Sound mastering facility for stereo audio mastering requirements in addition to surround sound mixes for DVD and also offer in house graphic design, web design and multimedia authoring services including DVD authoring. The Saskatoon office is located at 1106 Broadway Ave., S7H 2A1, (306) 477-3472, fax (306) 477-4481, e-mail office3@candisc.com.
• The Saskatoon Suzuki String Program presents the 2001 Summer String Experience, July 8-13 - a week of music, crafts and other fun for children and adults who play or are ready to play violin, viola or cello. Program includes beginner classes, orchestras, and instruction from SSSPI teachers. Teaching staff of the SSSPI (all certified by the American Suzuki Association) are joined by clinicians Robert Richardson Jr. (violin/viola) and Carey Cheney (cello, ASA teacher trainer) to offer repertoire and technique lessons, orchestras, master classes, viola for violinists and chamber music, plus David Bindle's percussion and Rock and Roll classes, and arts and crafts and other recreation. Registration deadline is May 10, space is limited. Details and applications are available by calling Lillian or John at (306) 373-9130.
• At Showcase 2000 (Saskatchewan Motion Picture Association), Wide Mouth Mason picked up an award for Original Score for their documentary "Wide Mouth Mason: Playing with Poison"; the project also took home Best Visual Effects (Jerry Burianyk). Mike MacNaughton received Overall Sound for his work on "13 Seconds: The Kent State Shootings". Marc Simard received Music Video for "Nobody Finds Me" (by Nicol Lischka).
• The Saskatchewan Orchestral Association presents the 2001 Saskatoon Chamber Orchestra Workshop, July 16-21. Designed to serve young musicians - string, wind and percussion - who are interested in developing their perform-ance technique and studying the standard orchestral repertoire. Participants will learn about classical and early romantic musical styles and performance practices; improve their playing technique; extend their theoretical knowledge; study ensemble and orchestral repertoire; make new friends; develop listening skills; and explore music history. At Aden Bowman School in Saskatoon, culminating in a final concert showcasing the ensemble. Guest artist Philip Kashap, conductor Terry Sturge. Info: James MacKenzie - Workshop Coordinator, (306) 683-0715, email: jmac10@home.com.
• The Saskatchewan Band Association's Summer Band Camps for Junior, Jazz and Senior will be held July 29-August 18. Info: (306) 783-2263, toll free in Sask. 1-877-475-2263, email sask.band@sasktel.net, or register online at www.musiceducationonline.org/sba/sbaindex.html.
• Media House Productions Inc. has announced a few changes in the services they offer, which now include video/audio tape duplication, foreign video conversion, 8mm/16mm transfers to video, blank video tape & supplies, CD business cards and CD replication. They can be contacted at (306) 359-0977, or email media.house@dlcwest.com.
Music Directory Canada, Eighth Edition is now available from Norris-Whitney Communications (Canadian Musician, Canadian Music Trade, Professional Sound and Lighting). SRIA members receive a 10% discount off the retail price of $39.95. It includes agents, venues, managers, publishers, radio stations, labels, studios and more. Contact 1-800-265-8481, or visit www.musicdirectorycanada.com.
• First CD to block ripping software: The next release from country icon Charley Pride is set to be the first commercial release encoded to prevent tracks from being copied to PCs or uploaded to the Internet. The album will be playable in all standard CD players but its "cloaking technology" will block ripping software. CD Buyers will be offered free downloadable Windows Media versions of Pride's songs, which can also be copied to portable players that support copy protection standards.

top of page

Q & A

Q: How do I get permission to record and release a remix CD (using popular artists' songs)?
A: You need licenses from both the copyright holders of (1) the song - usually licensed by CMRRA) and (2) the sound recording (master) -licensed by the record label. The second is difficult to obtain, but if you don't get permission first, they'll like sue you, and take ownership of your remix.

top of page

SURF DESTINATIONS

Check out a new Sask.-based webzine at www.GroovyNetDiva.com.

AllThingsMustPass.com - George Harrison website. If you're a fan, great. If you're not (and have a fast connection), it's worth visiting this site for the amazing graphics (roll your cursor around the page).

top of page

MEMBER CLASSIFIEDS

• I'm seeking experience in setting up tours, bookings shows, etc. If you need assistance with this or have an internship available please call Colleen, (306) 949-3182.
• Bassist/Vocalist required immediately for Faster Gun. Contact Ken Taylor at (306) 789 1986.

top of page

ARTIST & STUDIO NEWS

RELEASES...

• Julie Eisler held a CD release party for her self-titled debut on March 22 at Bushwakker's (Regina). Accompanying her were Ron Loos (acoustic guitar), Dan Beutel (bass), Matt Kaip (lead electric), Nat Bowen (drums) and Angela Hovland (backup vocals).
• Stephanie Thomson has released two singles from her latest EP; "Bound By Love" and "I Don't Know You Anymore." Her band is currently in pre-production for a new album to be released this summer.
• Cowboy Bob has just finished recording his children's debut album, "Buckaroo Roundup". The release party 'n show is being held May 10 at McNally Robinson, Saskatoon. It'll be a handslappin', toetappin', footstompin', bullridin' snakewrestlin' YEEHA of a good time for the whole family.
• Slyngshot Records is pleased to announce that Moose Jaw-area Christian rock band downhere has signed a multi-album recording agreement with Word Records (EMI) in Nashville. Their first album for the label will be released this fall. The group, who received Festival Act and Contemporary Christian Album awards at the 2000 Prairie Music Awards, has toured extensively across Canada and parts of the U.S. for the past three years.
• Breach of Trust signs to EMI Music Canada: the four -piece alternative/rock band from La Ronge features Colin Cheechoo (guitar/vocals), William Aubut (drums), Zane Kryzanowsky (bass/vocals) and Marty Ballentyne (vocals/guitar). Deane Cameron, President of EMI Music Canada comments, "Breach of Trust offers a uniquely powerful perspective on both life and music. We are very excited to bring this kind of passionate, hard-edged energy into our family of artists." Breach of Trust has released two independent releases; in July, EMI will re-release "Songs For Dying Nations", which has gained critical acclaim.
• Salvo is pleased to have a new website designed by Green Duplex, at www.salvocentral.com.
• The King Street Healers invite you to check out their newly updated website at www.kingstreethealers.logins.com.
• SOMARADIO has a new name: Radio 306. (Saskatchewan is the only place in the world that carries a 306 area code, so the number symbolizes their continued commitment to promoting flatland talent.) Tune in Saturdays 9-10 p.m. on CFCR 90.5 FM (Saskatoon). Send in your new music, and phone with your requests @ (306) 242-5002. Rich Embury will also be hosting a Canadian content show on Mondays, 12-1 p.m. Their email is radio306@hotmail.com.
• If you're interested in performing at this year's Taste of Saskatchewan festival (Saskatoon, July 18-22), contact Rich Embury - richembury@sprint.ca, or Konni Harach - konni@dlcwest.com.
• The Weyburn Wheat Festival, August 11 & 12, is looking for entertainers to liven up their grounds (clowns, buskers, etc.) They have a limited budget, but good exposure. Contact Donna Hastings, Tourism Coordinator, Tourism Weyburn (306) 848-3221.
• Wide Mouth Mason snagged the opening slot on a multitude of U.S. and Canadian dates with AC/DC. The band was recently nominated for Best Rock Album for "Stew" at the 2001 Juno Awards. The band will be headlining several dates this summer across Canada and recently performed in Seattle for the Experience Music Project.
• Meckelborg Music Services (formerly Remote Recorders) has recently moved into a new facility. It's been getting steadily busier over the last few years, and the extra space was a welcome change. Recent projects include Edmonton's QED "Searching for Adjectives". The beds were tracked at Brownsound Studios in Coronation, AB, and all vocals, mixing, and mastering were completed at Meckelborg Music. (The album will be in stores across the country early this month). Greg Hargarten and Jared Kuemper booked a block of time to continue tracking Greg's upcoming Ricasso album. Chogga is currently recording beds for their second album, to be released in late summer. Bender recently finished a 6 song demo, and Silent Partner is currently mixing their album. Ana Bekolay finished an album of classical vocal music recorded in Knox United Church (yup, they still do remotes), and numerous jingles for Total North Radio. It's been a busy 2001! Check out the website at www.meckelborgmusic.com.
• The Waltons were scheduled to perform two shows in Toronto recently, to be recorded by MapleMusic.com for a spring release. Singer/guitarist Jason Plumb, bass player Keith Nakonechy, keyboard/accordionist Todd Lumley and drummer Sean Bryson recently convened in Regina to record three new studio tracks at Plumb's home studio. These songs are expected to be included as bonus tracks to their live MapleMusic release.
• 5 Star Productions notes: Garland Headley's "You've Got to Love Her," produced by Rob Palacol and Mile P. Yohnke, went #1 on Garageband.com (a premiere MP3 site) in the blues category. Hollywood SunDogs finished working on pre-production of their first disc, which is targeted for a fall release. The Richard Marshal Division (RMD) are also in the studio working on pre-production of their first disc. Wheat Monkeys are busy performing (please visit our website for dates, www.5-starproductions.com). 5 Star Productions is starting a new category called "Inspirations" at the website; the idea is to share a line or a verse that you wrote or like. Submissions will be posted each month, and can be emailed to miles@5-starproductions.com.
• FACTOR Approvals: Saskatchewan scored well in the last round...approvals for demo grants included Scott Patrick, Jonah, and Donna Boser.
• Shandar Gray will be producing a video for "Ready for Me" thanks to a VideoFact award.
• Touchwood Studio report...Cory Churko finished up with May B Ted and Shandar Gray, and is now working on some Aerosmith re-mixes with Mike Shipley (Def Leppard, Faith Hill, The Corrs) in Los Angeles. Kelly Churko is working at Touchwood for the next few months until he moves back to Japan. Kelly has played with several bands in Japan and in Vancouver; his current Vancouver band is called Hospital. John Gasparic (Curtis Grambo, Chris Cummings) is presently producing and engineering projects at Touchwood including May B Ted, Into Eternity, Sisters, Pillar, Indignance, and Layaway Plan.
• The Johner Brothers are hard at work recording five new tunes that will be part of a "Best of" CD 1 to be released later this summer. The other "CD 2" will be recorded early next year, to complete the 2 CD Collection.
• Greenduplex Productions has expanded...The team of Derek Bachman, Mike Card and Kelly McKeigan have widened their horizons and are delving into the world of artist management. Greenduplex Productions is a fully operational company specializing in graphic design, website design, promotions, publicity, artist management, tour co-ordination, electronic press kits and much more. Clients currently include Joël Fafard, Five Minute Miracle, Skavenjah, Tegan & Sara, Tariq, Salvo & many more! For info on their services, please contact info@greenduplex.com.
• Saskatoon singer/songwriter Rachel Gerein now has a 4 song adult/contemporary demo available to music industry professionals. The demo was partially funded by FACTOR and recorded/ produced by Joel Grundahl of Viking Music Production (Saskatoon). If you are interested in receiving a copy contact Rachel, (306) 653-5426 or email onmywaymusic@sasktel.net.
• Jessica Robinson recently took home SCMA's "Female Vocalist of the Year" and "Most Promising Entertainer", and was also nominated for "Best New Country Artist" at the Canadian Radio Music Awards in Toronto (March 31). The awards, hosted by actor Leslie Nielson, were part of Canadian Music Week. Her current single "Sitting on a Goldmine" is doing well on the BDS charts (in the low 50s after only 3 weeks). Radio response has been good and should continue to rise. After finishing an eastern radio tour, plans are in the works for a western tour sometime in April, and in late May, she'll be moving to Nashville for the summer to continue work on an album with Diamond Rio producer, Mike Clute.
• VideoFACT and PromoFACT January deadline approvals: 11 website applications, 4 EPK applications and 243 video applications were considered. A total of $667,745 was awarded. (Shandar Gray was Sask.'s lone approval.)

top of page

SEND STUFF HERE

• The Cathedral Village Arts Festival is seeking bands, musicians, buskers, etc. for this year's festival. Contact (306) 569-8755 or cathedralfestival@sasktel.net for details.
• The Weyburn Wheat Festival, August 11 & 12, is looking for entertainers to liven up their grounds (clowns, buskers, etc.) They have a limited budget, but good exposure. Contact Donna Hastings, Tourism Coordinator, Tourism Weyburn (306) 848-3221.
• The Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Councils' Showcase of the Arts will be held November 1-4 in Kindersley. Deadline for applications is May 1, and is $20 for Saskatchewan artists/agents; $40 for two artists or more, and $30 for artists/agents outside of Saskatchewan ($60 for two artists or more). The selection committee will be looking for artistic excellence and professionalism, and should include a video. Applications can be obtained from Nancy Martin, Performing Arts Co-ordinator at (306) 586-1253/fax (306) 586-1550, nancy.osac@cableregina.com or www.osac.sk.ca.
• Shut Eye Records is an independent record label based in Atlanta, GA, USA. Their artists include pop, rock, punk, college rock, indie-rock, grrrl-rock, roots-rock, acoustic, alt-country, pop-rock, pop-punk, post-punk, peace-punk, emo, indie-pop, plutonium rock, hip-hop, trip-hop, jungle and all the stuff in between. Shut Eye has released music from over 200 bands from all over the world. If you are a musician and would like to submit a package, send your demo/tape/CD or 7" to: Shut Eye Records, 997 Boulevard SE, Suite One, Atlanta, GA 30312, USA. (Unsolicited material welcome.)
• Windrift Music, a new label in Toronto is sponsoring a songwriting competition. Grand prize $500, 50 CDs courtesy of Windrift Music, etc. Deadline is June 30. Contest details are located at www.windriftmusic.com/contest.html.
• CBC Radio - Vancouver is always looking for new music by independent Canadian artists. They'd like your CD, bio, photo and contact information for their record library. Once they've got it, it will be available for use on the air by a number of shows. Please write your band's name on the back of any photos you send. Send packages to: Tatiana Nemchin, CBC Radio 2, Box 4600, Vancouver, BC, V6B 4A2, phone (604) 662-6714, fax (604) 662-6096, tatiana@cbcradio2.com.
• DJ Persy's Rude Awakening - play all sorts of indie/pop/rock/punk/metal music, female artist friendly. Persy, P.O. Box 611480 Port Huron, MI 48061, persygrrrl@yahoo.com.
• A new children's webcast is seeking music - not necessarily typical kids' stuff with kids lyrics, but any with wholesome lyrics and a great beat that kids will love. Streaming music, CD promotion, etc. For info see www.playhouseradio.com/indiefaq.html.
• NewMusicWest, North by NorthEast - see their ads in this edition.
• The Kenny Love radio show will accept submissions for considered airplay on his syndicated radio show. Indie recording artists can get detailed submission requirements by sending a blank email to radioshow@getresponse.com.
• Songwriters' Circle on UMFM 101.5 Campus and Community Radio, Winnipeg - Internet promote and play "hit free" music, i.e. non commercial, singer-songwriter and other genres. Send bio info (max. 2 pages) & 2 copies of your CD to: UMFM Songwriters' Circle, 112 Pulford St., Winnipeg, MB, R3L 1X7, Attn: Lisa-Marie. Email lisa_marieserafin@hotmail.com, www.cjum.com.
• AMP11.com accepts submissions in rock/alternative or metal. Contact Darlene for details, darlene@amp11.com, www.amp11.com.
• HERSONG is a 90 minute weekly womens' radio show with music from around the world. Submit CDs: Christi Carver, P.O. Box 34231 San Diego, CA, 02163-4231, USA, email wtrgypsies@aol.com, www.worldmusicradio.com
• Independent Musicfest 2001 - Nashville, TN, June 14-16 at the Municipal Auditorium. Exhibits, booths and live shows each day with continual showcasing. Independent labels wishing to showcase a performer must submit a video of two songs & a bio OR a two song CD/cassette with photo & bio. Each item should be labeled with the performer and record label name. Submissions will not be returned. All entries are to be received by April 30. Send your mailing address to FanFest2001@aol.com for more information.
• The Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) is accepting showcase applications for Country Music Week in Calgary (September) until April 30. Sponsored by The Calgary Stampede, Showcase 2001 will highlight new country talent to the industry and fans. As part of their 25th Anniversary celebrations, the CCMA is seeking a wider variety of submissions to demonstrate the diversity of styles that make up country music today, as well as more experienced artists. Contact (905) 850-1144 for an application form; submissions to include a CD/cassette, bio, photos & video material (if available). Application fee $15. Artists will be chosen by a jury of country music industry professionals, those selected to be notified by June 1. Contact Verle Mobbs, (905) 850-1144, email country@ccma.org, www.ccma.org.
• The Billboard Song Contest is on again. If you've averaged less than $5,000/year total music royalties since 1992 (including song contest winnings) you're eligible to enter. Categories include Country, Pop, Dance, Rock/Alternative, Contemporary Christian/Traditional Gospel, Latin, Jazz, or R&B/Blues. Prizes include an Epiphone guitar & a 1-year subscription to TAXI. Entry fee $30 U.S. per song; a personal song evaluation will be supplied. Application form on the website, www.billboard.com/songcontest or contact Ryan Gardenhire, (918) 627-0351, email: bbsc@jimhalsey.com. Deadline June 15.
• Looking for volunteer entertainers for the 13th Annual Cancer Jam near Weyburn (Nickle Lake Regional Park), June 23-24. All P.A., backline/drums etc provided. A fun day to mingle with other musicians & music lovers from Sask. and area. Great fundraiser for the SE cancer society. Lots of other activities...car show, hayrides, mini golf, camping, motorcycle rally games, etc. Call Johnny Knox, (306) 842-8961.
• The USA Songwriting Competition is accepting submissions until May 31. The overall Grand Prize winner will receive US$50,000 worth of cash, merchandise and services. Info is available from www.songwriting.net or call (954) 776-1577. Entry fee $30 U.S.
• The 2001 Songwriters Contest is accepting entries until June 30. 13 categories, $30.00 U.S. entry fee per song. All qualified entrants will receive one copy of the winners on CD. For official rules & entry form e-mail encoreproductionsinc@velceroisp.com, www.encoreproductionsinc.com/2001.htm, (901) 821-9921. Long distant calls may not be returned.
• UNC Student Radio (University of Northern Colorado) accepts new music for their playlist. Contact: Jonathan Kraft, ksrx@blue.univnorthco.edu, www.unco.edu/ksrx, 928 20th St., Greeley, CO 80639, USA, (970) 351-1256.
• Competition for National Artists Program 2001 Canada Summer Games. The Program is a federally funded project held in conjunction with the 2001 Canada Summer Games, London, ON, August 11-25. A "music participant" will be chosen from each province and territory. The participants will travel on the charters as part of the provincial/territorial teams. The primary objective is to create artistic works inspired by, and representative of, the spirit of the Canada Games. Participants must be between the ages of 16 and 23 as of August 31; and not use their artistic ability as their principle means of financial support. Application forms and information are available from the Saskatchewan Band Association, (306) 783-2263 or University of Regina, Faculty of Fine Arts, (306) 585-5576.
• Composers born after Oct. 31, 1971 are invited to enter the International Forum for Young Composers, organized by the Nouvel Ensemble Modern and scheduled to take place November 2002 in Montreal. Seven selected composers will create a 1-20 minute work for an ensemble of 15 musicians. Finalists will attend a month-long workshop with NEM, leading to premieres of their works. Deadline Oct. 31. To obtain an application call (514) 343-5962, email lenem@musique.umontreal.ca or see www.nem.umontreal.ca.

top of page

For further info or audio samples, artists in this section can generally be found on www.saskrecording.ca and/or www.flatlandmusic.com.

Recorded at various locations
Engineered by: Selections from Babies, Birds & Bones by Lyndon Smith; selections from Playing the Field (CBC) and CBC Studio One recordings by John Mang; additional songs by Glen Enns and Jon Beckett
Mastered by: Don Warkentin
Songwriter: Susan Bond
More Info: www.susanbond.com (coming soon)

OLD GUARD ROAD
...a peace offering
Notes: OGR is a trio comprised of Jesse Friggstad, Ryan Jacobson and Chris Jacobson. This is the debut album from the heavy (but melodic) Saskatoon rockers.

Recorded at: Night Deposit Studios and Viking Music Production
2^nd Engineers: Andre Lukacsy and Mike Weir
Produced by: Joel Grundahl and Old Guard Road
Mixed and Mastered by: Joel Grundahl at Viking Music Production
Songwriters: Old Guard Road
More info: www.oldguardroad.com (coming soon)

REVEREND SCHULTZ & the GOOD NEWS BLUES BAND
All Revved Up
Notes: Imagine George Thorougood gone Christian!

Recorded and Mixed at: Audisy Productions, Saskatoon
Engineered and Produced by: Randy Derksen
Songwriters: All by Dean Schultz with the exception of one track from Kevin Peters and one from Warren Peters

RAY VILLEBRUN
& RED BLAZE
Sound of Thunder
Notes: Close-to-traditional sounding country, with some interesting twists.

Recorded at: Turtle Island Recording Studio
Produced by: Ray Villebrun
Co-Produced by: Greg Edmunds
Assistant Producer: Neil Meckelborg
Engineered by: Neil Meckelborg and Ray Villebrun
Songwriter: Ray Villebrun

REGINA MANDOLIN ORCHESTRA
Celtic Mandolin
Notes: The Orchestra features twenty mandolin plus mandola, octave mandolin, mando-cello, guitar, bass, violin, flute and accordion.

Recorded at: Wascana Rehabilitation Centre Auditorium
Engineered by: Mike McNaughton and Darwin Tchir
Produced by: Gary Robertson
Songwriters: Various (mainly traditional), with a special composition by Gary Robertson

JULIE EISLER
Julie Eisler
Notes: The debut from this young songwriter, a light pop setting with introspective lyrics about relationships and life.

Recorded by: Brad Drozda
Produced by: Brad Drozda and Julie Eisler
Mastered by: Chris Hudec at The Digital Sunspot
Songwriter: Julie Eisler

top of page