Songwriter Opportunities

The Virginia Organization of Composers and Lyricists (VOCAL), P.O. Box 2438, Petersburg, VA 23804, presents its fifth annual songwriting contest, "Songwriting Contest 1991." Twelve categories of music; deadline for receipt of entries is March 31, 1991; First, Second and Third Prizes in all categories; $100 Grand Prize. Entry fee is $5 for initial category, $2.50 each additional category. For additional information call (804) 733-5908 or (804) 271-9488.

Songwriters of Oklahoma, 211 W. Waterloo Rd., Edmond, OK 73034, is sponsoring a lyric contest with a top prize of $100. Deadline for entries is May 1, 1991. For entry blanks or information call Harvey Derrick at (405) 348-6534, or write them at the above address.

An article in Southern Arts Federation newsletter JazzSouth informs that The ASCAP Foundation is offering grants to composers who have not reached their 30th birthday by March 15, 1991. For information, guidelines and appropriate submission forms, write Frances Richard, Director, ASCAP Foundation Grants to Young Composers, ASCAP Building, One Lincoln Plaza, New York, NY 10023.

The Songwriters Guild of America, 6430 Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028, has put together a brochure entitled "10 Basic Points Your Contract Should Include," which they feel contains information vital to all songwriters negotiating contracts with their publishers. SAG will make available two complimentary copies of their Popular Songwriters Contract to songwriter organization members who send a SASE with 45 cents postage to the above address. (Don't forget that postage rates increase on February 3, making the cost 52 cents.) Space considerations did not permit us to print the "10 Points Every Contract Should Include" but perhaps SGA will send a copy to you if you request it when you write for the contract.

The Ft. Bend Songwriters Association is conducting a songwriting and lyric writing contest for amateurs. Grand prize in the songwriting contest includes $100 and 15 hours of studio recording time. Other prizes include studio recording time, cash, how-to songwriting books, and an AM/FM cassette stereo. For entry forms and rules, send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to FBSA Contests, P.O. Box 117, Richmond, TX 77469. Deadline for entries is April 30, 1991.