Chapter Events

"What is a co-write and can we try?" Third Official Meeting at the Back Table: Collaborative Songwriting

This session will focus on co-writing and the power of collaborative creativity.

We'll start with a short group discussion and a song share, then break into small group dialogues. NSAI members will have the opportunity to share a song and receive feedback.

Facilitators will guide these conversations using a "reflective dialogue" framework, encouraging intentional presence and creative openness. Guest facilitator Tiffany Tovey, Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and Research (UT Knoxville, 2014), will share insights from her work on reflective dialogue—a flexible approach that supports deeper, more meaningful conversations. Our aim is for participants to feel energized and inspired with fresh ideas for songwriting.

Co-coordinators Tom Troyer and Chris Smith bring diverse co-writing experience to the session. Chris offers a commercial songwriting background, while Tom draws from a DIY and indie studio/touring perspective. Their goal is to help members better understand the creative and collaborative process.

Intended Outcomes:

1. Participants engage in lively dialogue and form co-writing partnerships.
2. Groups begin writing a song together.
3. Individuals discover song ideas and begin working independently.

Facilitators will review the agenda, demonstrate reflective dialogue, support group work, and reconvene everyone to share progress and reflect on the experience.