The Songwriters Association of Canada

The Songwriters Association of Canada is throwing two songwriting bonanzas on November 24, Bluebird North and Songposium. This year's Bluebird North concert features songwriter Christopher Ward (who's written for everyone from Hilary Duff to Alannah Myles), Jason Collett, Halifax native Jordan Croucher and Catherine MacLellan (8pm, The Music Room, 6181 Lady Hammond, $20/$25, ticketweb.ca). Ward is the guy to talk to if you feel like sitting in a lavish mansion all day, playing a white piano and hobnobbing with cute starlets. I think songwriting might be the way to realize this dream. "I don't think there's a formula. Sometimes, it's a repeated phrase that won't leave your brain, but that has everything to do with the music that accompanies it," says Ward. "A great lyric is memorable, simple and says something meaningful in a way that you haven't heard before." Who does Ward like these days? "Aside from the all time favourites—Lennon/McCartney, Joni Mitchell, Dylan, Jobim—I like Corrine Bailey Rae, Lucinda Williams, Neil Finn and The Shins." One of those folks had a white piano, FYI. Ward suggests that a little company is the best policy for sweet song gems, "Collaboration is a great way to make your songs better. Then, the hard part begins—getting people to notice your work. I'd suggest trying to connect with singers who you think can really bring your songs to life." Little Richard, expect a phone call from me.