Katherine's News

SUMMER SONGWRITING WEEKEND IN MUSKOKA, SEPTEMBER 11, 12, 13, 2009

2008-10-30T19:44:00.001-07:00

With KATHERINE WHEATLEY, JAMES GORDON and LINDA MCLEAN

Following up on the sold-out success of their Winter Songwriting Weekends, Katherine and James are introducing an summer version, held this time in Muskoka with host and acclaimed songwriter, Linda McLean. No experience is necessary to take part in this creative and fun retreat, proven to be richly rewarding for veteran and aspiring songwriters alike. From short melodies to full tunes, songwriting is an outlet for one's feelings, thoughts, observations, queries, philosophies and politics. This immersion course is a musical celebration that fosters personal growth and the art of collaboration.

see video clip from last workshop

JAMES GORDON

James Gordon is one of Canada’s most prolific songwriters. His classic “Frobisher Bay” has been recorded and performed by over a hundred acts world-wide and was an audition piece for “Canadian Idol.” His song “Mining For Gold” was featured on the Cowboy Junkies’ landmark album “The Trinity Sessions” and was more recently heard in John Sayles’ film “Silver City.” He was a resident songwriter on CBC radio for 12 years, with weekly songs on shows including “Ontario Morning.” His “Rhyme Capsules” songwriting-in-the-schools program develops young writers all across North America. He tours as a solo performer and with his sons, and has released over 30 albums as a solo artist or with the legendary folk trio “Tamarack.” In 2009 BerLen Music published the Pipe Street Songbook, an anthology of his 50 most loved songs. www.jamesgordon.ca

KATHERINE WHEATLEY

Katherine Wheatley “turns pebbles of everyday life into dreamy mountains of song.” Arresting vocals, stellar guitar playing, heartfelt lyrics, and a knack for deeply engaging audiences mark Katherine Wheatley’s concerts -- from festivals and big stages to unamplified intimate gatherings. She captivates audiences across Canada, the U.S. and Europe, delivering performances best described as “transcendent.” Katherine’s a regular at folk festivals, concert series and clubs across Canada, and a member of Betty and the Bobs, and half of duo with Wendell Ferguson. She she’s been a musical guest on Stuart McLean’s Vinyl Café, TVO’s Studio Two, CTV’s Canada AM and Good Morning Can ada. She is a gifted teacher and has developed a songwriting/CD making program for young students, called Youth Songs. Her third album is expected to be released this fall. www.katherinewheatley.com

LINDA MCLEAN

Award winning singer songwriter LINDA McLEAN lives in the forests of Northern Ontario, writing taut memorable songs full of fire and emotion inspired by the natural beauty that surrounds her. The reviews are unanimous, and sound something like a chorus of acclamation “Once in a great while, out of the blue, comes an indie masterpiece. Such is the case of Linda McLean's NO LANGUAGE... NO LANGUAGE (BongoBeat 2005) follows steadfastly on the heels of her brilliant debut CD, BETTY'S ROOM (Rounder/Europe, 2003), “these are songs that have been lived. Linda is a singer/songwriter in the best tradition of fellow Canadian Joni Mitchell's 70's work.” (VARA Radio, The Netherlands). McLean is creating a stir on both sides of the Atlantic with reviews ranking her among the best of her North American contemporaries; descriptors such as“country-tinged beauty with reference points stretching from Lucinda Williams to KD Lang.” (UK Music Media Review). www.lindamclean.com

WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION

The weekend (7pm Friday to 4pm Sunday) includes:

Friday night house concert (with wine and cheese reception) featuring Katherine, James, and Linda
Evening song-sharing circles and jam sessions
Group songwriting
One-on-one mentoring sessions with Katherine, James and Linda
Delicious lunches and refreshments throughout the day
Melody, Lyric, Chord/Theory, Vocal/Harmony, and Industry workshops
An individual songwriting assignment, for performance at workshop finale
One-on-one help with arranging and presenting individual songs
Final Sunday afternoon concert, featuring participants' new songs!
The opportunity to select one CD from each presenter (3 CD bundle)
The opportunity to purchase DVD with audio and pics of the weekend
Early evening, pre-dinner stroll through the woods
Saturday night BBQ
Saturday night beach campfire and song circle
Restricted to 20 registrants

At The Songwriting Weekend, the main idea is to "learn by doing”. The workshops include creative activities – from writing and presenting short melodies to composing a full song during the course of the weekend. Katherine, Linda and James will always be there to guide. Each participant will choose a topic for a song that they’ll work on over the weekend. Our qualified presenters will be available for one-on-one coaching in this process throughout. They can also help with the arrangement and presentation of the song. On Sunday afternoon, there will be a concert of all the songs written over the weekend. In addition to the song assignments, there will be two group songs. First thing Saturday morning, half the group will write a song with James and the other half with Katherine. Both songs will be presented before coffeebreak.

The workshops will address the following topics:

Melody and lyric writing

New ideas for chord progressions

Developing and sustaining creativity in songwriting

Vocal and breathing techniques

The business of songwriting

What makes a great, lasting song last so long (song analysis)

Other Details:

Location: The immersion course takes place at a beautiful home overlooking treed hills in Muskoka, just south of Huntsville.

Registration Fee: Does not included accommodation.

$350

$325 early bird discount, register by May 1, 2009

$300 early bird with SAC membership

Accommodation: We are sorting these details out right now. There is a lodge and bed and breakfast close to the site. In addition, we'll provide details for camping.

For more information about the workshop, katherine.wheatley@sympatico.ca

Other Presenters:

JANE LEWIS

Jane Lewis has a history of singing in school choirs where she could hide behind the other voices. As for singing solo...no way! She was even too shy to sing in the shower when no one else was home. After a fluke incident in a recording studio, however, she took a few singing lessons and made a concerted effort to get over her issues around making noise. She now sings in public with her partner, Sam Turton, and is always looking forward to their next performance. When she isn't making music, she works as a freelance editor. She is also the author of six young adult novels

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Registration Form:

September 11, 12, 13, 2009

___________________________________________

Name

___________________________________________

Address

___________________________________________

City

___________________________________________

Province/State Postal/Zip

___________________________________________

Phone

___________________________________________

E-mail

___________________________________________

Visa or MasterCard #

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Expiry Date

Or, make cheque or money order payable to Pipe Street Publishing. Please mail registration form and payment to: Pipe Street Publishing Box 714, Guelph, ON, Canada N1H 6L3

$350

$325 early bird discount, register by May 1, 2009

$300 early bird with SAC membership

Note: Does not included accommodation.

YOUTH SONGS WORKSHOP

2007-07-26T15:33:00.000-07:00

FOR FULL DESCRIPTION, SONG SAMPLES AND PHOTOS, PLEASE VISIT:
KATHERINE WHEATLEY YOUTHSONGS PROGRAMME

FOR A VIDEO CLIP OF KATHERINE WRITING A SONG WITH A CLASS, PLEASE VISIT
http://www.plumtv.com/video_player/nantucket/06089_katherine_wheatley.flv

I haven't managed to set up my "Workshops" page on my website yet. For now, I'll put it here, in my "NEWS" section. My website know-how is limited, but at least I know how to update my "NEWS" page. The links above have more information. Here, on this "NEWS" page, I wanted to say that for me, the "workshops" part of my life is kind of newsworthy. It's a new thing in my life in the last few years. I love it.

I do a number of workshops: songwriting, touring, singing. But the one I'm most excited about is called "Youth Songs". Basically, I go into a school and write songs with the classes, then, once all the songs are written, I record them (usually in the school library) and make a school CD. At home, I do this program at local schools with my great friend Jude Vadala over a number of weeks. Away from home, I do it by myself in a shorter, more intense period of time. The programme was developed by Jude Vadala and Sarah Harwood (one of the parents at the first school we worked at) and me. The idea and know-how for writing songs with classes came from James Gordon, a wonderful singer/songwriter.

Below is the formal description of the programme. If you need more info about schedule and budget, or you want to hear some of the songs, please e-mail me at katherine.wheatley@sympatico.ca.

Thanks for your interest

A DESCRIPTION OF THE YOUTH SONGS PROGRAMME
Rather than read below, it might be more fruitful to link to:
KATHERINE WHEATLEY YOUTHSONGS PROGRAMME
where you can hear song samples...

“Youth songs was the best school-wide program I’ve seen in my career as an educator.”
- Nelson Keane, Principal, Paisley Rd. P.S.

What is the Youth Songs Program?
It’s a songwriting and recording program for Kindergarten to Grade 6 classes. Katherine writes songs with each class - up to 6 per week. The program will culminate in two events:
1. The production of a CD of all the class songs
2. A concert to celebrate those songs

Writing the songs:
Each class receives 2 one-hour visits from Katherine. She gives them a crash course in songwriting. Together, they choose a topic, they brainstorm, they write the lyrics and they write the melody. Each class ends up with their own class song. If time allows, each class will participate in writing a school song. One class may write the chorus, others the verses. Katherine will visit each class for an extra 20 minutes to rehearse the songs.

School Concert Assembly:
The school will assemble at the end of the week so that each class may perform their song. The songs are usually 2 to 3 minutes long, so it will be a short concert (20 minutes). The assembly will be a dress rehearsal for the parent concert and the recording.

Recording the songs:
On the final day, each class will record their song in the library or staff room or whichever room is most suitable for setting up a portable studio. The library works well because the books make good sound baffles. It takes around 30 minutes to record each song.

In past programs, Katherine has worked with a few of the older students who play instruments to compose and record parts (cello or violin pads, clarinet and guitar solos). They will overdub their parts at the end of the day.

Concert for Family and Friends
A concert is held for friends and family to celebrate the accomplishments of the students.

CD Duplication:
The CD will have to be edited, mixed and mastered before it’s available for duplication. If Katherine is on tour, this may take a few weeks. Once the master is available, it will be ready for duplication. Katherine can provide 10 masters of the CD. To save money, it’s advised that volunteers duplicate the Cds. If 10 volunteers duplicated 20 cds each, there’d be 200 Cds. The idea is that students will receive their own CD of all the class songs.
Another option is to put the master on a web site for download. If the school has enough computers, each student can download the recording on to a CDR at the school.

CD Cover:
Katherine will provide a template for the CD insert. The insert will have a blank cover. Students make their own CD cover (crayons, computer graphics).

Result:
Through songwriting, children learn the benefits and enjoy the rewards of collaboration and creativity. As a “team” they will write songs, produce a CD, and put on a concert. (Please see notes Re. benefits of songwriting for children at the end of this proposal).

RECENT SCHOOL SONGWRITING PROGRAMMES

-2005 to 2007: 3 years as a mentor in the SASS program for the Durham District School Board Grade 7 to 12 (~100 visits to schools giving 1 to 2 hour workshops)
-2006 to 2007: 18 songwriting sessions with Grade 5 classes of the Upper Grand District School Boards, sponsored by the Edward Johnson Foundation in Guelph, ON. Katherine wrote and recorded a song with each class during a one-hour visit.
-Spring 2006: A 6 week YOUTH SONGS program, along with Jude Vadala, at Paisley Road Public School in Guelph for 15 classes.
-Winter 2007: A 6 week YOUTH SONGS program, along with Jude Vadala, at Laurine Avenue Public School in Guelph for 6 classes.
-May 2007: A 1 week intensive YOUTHSONGS program at Nantucket New School, Nantucket, MA
-May 2007: A 2-week intensive LOCAL HISTORY YOUTHSONGS program with Grade 7s from schools in the Parry Sound area. The songs celebrate the history of Parry Sound and were performed at the 5th Year Anniversary of the Charles Stockey Performing Arts Centre.
-June 2007: 2 day songwriting workshop with Grade 10s at an Arts School in Toronto.
-February 2008: 1 to 2 week intensive LOCAL HISTORY YOUTHSONGS program in Madison Indiana (to be confirmed)
-March 2008: A 1 week intensive PEACE YOUTHSONGS program at Nantucket New School, Nantucket, MA
-May 2008: A 1 week intensive YOUTHSONGS program at Tecumseh Public School, London, ON
-Feb/March 2009: A YOUTHSONGS program with the Children's Youth Advisory Council at the London Health Centre.
-May 2009: A 1 week LOCAL HISTORY YOUTHSONGS program with Nantucket New School.

KATHERINE’S THOUGHTS ON THE BENEFITS OF A SONGWRITING PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN

During the creative process, students are encouraged to listen to and respect each other’s ideas as well as offer their own ideas. What they may find is that their idea didn’t end up in the song, but it led to an idea that led to another idea that ended up in the song. They see that the class would never have arrived at that idea without their first courageous offering. And that courageous offering might never had been made had the class not agreed at the beginning of the process to be respectful of each other’s ideas. In this way the kids learn that respect for each other and courage are key components of collaboration and creativity.

More Notes on the Benefits of Songwriting Programs for Children:

-It’s a popular art form and therefore compelling and attractive to many students, including at-risk students.
-It combines different skills: lyric writing, composition, musicianship (vocal and instrumental), and performance.
-It is a precise art and teaches the kids to be clear and focused.
-Because a song is short, writing a song is manageable in terms of time commitment and resources. The kids feel a sense of accomplishment and boost to confidence relatively quickly.
-Songwriting requires both right and left-brain activity. It involves techniques that help students tap in to their creative spirit. Helps them develop problem-solving abilities and editing skills.
-Songs are a form of self-expression. Songwriting is an outlet for one’s feelings, thoughts, observations, queries, philosophies and politics. Kids not only learn to understand themselves, but also to observe and empathise with others. Songwriting gets kids thinking as well as being creative and productive.
-A songwriting program delivered by class encourages kids to listen to and appreciate each other. Not only do they learn to listen, but they also enjoy the benefits of having their creative expression taken seriously. Thus they build respect for each other and for themselves.

QUOTES FROM PRINCIPALS AND TEACHERS

“Youth songs was the best school-wide program I’ve seen in my career as an educator.”
- Nelson Keane, Principal, Paisley Rd. P.S.

“ I just want to thank you for the amazing energy that you have brought into my classroom. My students and I all look forward to when you come and work with us. We are very proud of the song, "CANADA IS MY FAMILY". Thank you so much for your patience, inspiration, enthusiasm and expertise. We have so benefited from your presence. You need to know that everyone is thrilled with the quality of the CD. You and David did an amazing job of recording and mixing the songs. It sounds so professional! It's been a hit and a real gift to the students, staff and parents of Paisley Road School.”
- Jane Rocher, Grade 4 Teacher

"Katherine Wheatley’s Song Writing Workshops with Grade 7 students attending schools in Parry Sound and area schools were amazing. She was patient, enthusiastic, and very talented. It was an absolutely wonderful and extraordinary experience for the students and teachers." Dave Golden, Education Director, Charles Stockey Centre, Parry Sound

“I believe it was an enlightening project for everyone who participated and listeners. It was a fantastic way to bring the school together with our communities. It was uplifting and fun to listen as well!” - Vittoria Balfour, parent

"Creating the music and lyrics was an extraordinary musical experience. Every song captures the spirit of the children in such an exciting way. My children are so proud to share their CD with family and friends." - Anne Phillips, parent

"We have been playing the CD all summer and other families have been also. It's great!" - Mary Anne Giovinazzo, parent

“The program had a big impact -- teachers and kids loved it. I attended the concert and was so moved by it. I support this wonderful work.”
- Erin Kelly, Superintendent, Upper Grand District School Board

“I thought that the music program was wonderful for the students. The trustees were delighted as well and welcomed the performers to the Board Room.”
- Martha Rogers, Director of Education, Upper Grand District School Board

“The presentation was absolutely wonderful. The children were so engaged that it was obvious that this is a venue that should be pursued elsewhere. This is the type of outreach that all cultural groups in Guelph should strive to accomplish. My congratulations to you, Jude and Katherine on a job well done. Sign me up for at least one CD.”
- Nicholas Dalton, Hillside Music Festival

"The music enrichment program last year at Paisley Rd. Public School, developed by Jude Vadala and Katherine Wheatley, was fantastic! The feedback from students, teachers, and parents has been extremely positive. The entire school community was excited throughout the process! The songs written and sung by each class were developed into a CD and are wonderful. We hope to have Jude and Katherine back this year."
- Nelson Keane, Principal

WENDELL AND WHEAT

2007-07-06T20:47:00.001-07:00

WENDELL AND WHEAT

WE'VE TAKEN TWO GREAT ACTS AND JOINED THEM. NOW YOU CAN JOIN THEM FOR COMPELLING SONGS, AWARD-WINNING GUITAR PLAYING AND BEAUTIFUL VOCALS.

Katherine Wheatley and Wendell Ferguson are the best of musical pals - her heartfelt lyrical vision and poignant voice, and his honest yet irreverent humour make for both a moving and hilarious show. Here’s what one presenter said: “It was an absolutely transcendent concert...she didn't leave a dry eye in the house and he didn't leave a dry seat".

Six time Canadian Country Music Association Guitar Player of the Year, Wendell Ferguson has traveled the globe and accompanied a veritable who’s who in both the country field - (George Fox, Duane Steele, Tommy Hunter) and the folk arena - (Gordon Lightfoot, Quartette, Bob Snider, Cindy Church). He is one of the best loved and most respected guitar players in the country. Wendell performs his own, very funny songs at Folk Festivals and concerts. “The man writes sharp, witty and head-spinningly brilliant tunes. He’s a cross between Roger Miller and Ray Flack. He has more in common with Mark Twain than Shania”. (Twangzine). According to Country Music News "Wendell Ferguson is recognized by his peers as one of the top pickers in the country and known best as having one of the quickest wits in the game. A talented and funny guy to say the least."

Arresting vocals, fine guitar playing and a “down to earth” feel that some attribute to her years working as a geologist, mark Katherine's work. As well as touring extensively, she has written music for film and television documentaries and has been a musical guest on many shows, including CTV’s Canada AM and CBC Radio’s Vinyl Cafe. Hubert O'Hearn of the The Chronicle Journal in Thunder Bay wrote "Katherine Wheatley is able to take minor observations in life and find their soul. On stage...she exudes sheer kindness and love. Blessedly, refreshingly, Katherine Wheatley is a truly Canadian original". ". According to the Ottawa Citizen "This is a performer to keep you on the edge of your seat."

KATHERINE & CLAIRE RUN IN FOR DIABETES IN ICELAND

2006-08-29T10:27:00.000-07:00

Claire and I did it. We raised over $13,000 between us, we whipped ourselves into shape and on Saturday, August 19, we finished the half marathon. 180 Canadians traveled to Iceland with Team Diabetes to run or walk the half or full marathon. Together we raised over $1 million dollars. The Canadian Diabetes Association treated us to three days in Reykjavik. They fed us, accommodated us, took us to the Blue Lagoon, and provided coaching. I highly recommend this experience. It was a real win-win. Lots of money was raised, the participants achieved personal goals, and we experienced an unusual and beautiful country. Check it out: Team Diabetes.

Thanks so much to those who helped us...

WEBMASTER'S WELCOME

2006-03-07T05:52:00.000-08:00

As the new year gains momentum, songstress and performer Katherine Wheatley is gaining momentum too. With a full slate of bookings well into the autumn, a new album in the works and a brand-new web presence, Katherine is gearing up for a banner year of creative output.

This site has been created to help fans and new listeners find out more about Katherine and her work. It's also a forum where Katherine can share her own thoughts, ideas and projects with you, her audience.

Besides the contemporary new look and feel, this site offers many new and useful features: a dynamic concert calendar, an overview of Katherine's educational workshop projects, a brand new Electronic Press Kit for promoters and bookers, and sidebar highlights throughout the site.

Whether you're a die-hard fan, a new listener, or a member of the music community, you'll find what you need here at the all-new KatherineWheatley.com. Happy clicking!