Founder of global songwriting community inspires in Tamworth
In celebration of the annual Tamworth Country Music Festival, UNE SMART Region Incubator partnered with UNE Tamworth to host a series of music-inspired events on Friday 20 January.
Francesca de Valence, a multi-award-winning songwriter and founder of the 'I Heart Songwriting Club' - a Global songwriting community that has helped over 1200 songwriters write over 25,000 songs over the past 8 years - hosted a series of engaging and interactive events that were open to the Tamworth community
The day kicked off with Francesca presenting her moving founder's story, sharing insights into starting her business and growing an active and vibrant online community.
According to UNE SRI Regional Connector Jessica Bradbery, attendees were inspired by her journey and learned valuable lessons on entrepreneurship - particularly in the power of creating an online membership with a unique offering.
The second event of the day was a creative business workshop, open to existing or aspiring entrepreneurs. Francesca provided tangible advice on starting a business while also imparting a real sense of possibility to attendees.
“This workshop was a hit among those who were present,” Jessica said.
“Many attendees left with a newfound or renewed vision for starting or diversifying their business!”
Francesca then hosted a speed songwriting workshop that guided each participant through the songwriting process. At the end of the two-hour workshop, everyone had written their own song.
“It was an unforgettable experience for all who were present and a testament to not only Francesca's songwriting skills but her ability to impart this knowledge - and confidence! - with a group of novice songwriters.”
To round out the day, Francesca hosted In the Round, Songwriter's Circle, at the intimate Conservatorium of Music Chapel. The show featured Francesca, John Newsome, E.S. Malaika, and Karen Law. Inspired by the live performances at Nashville’s famous Bluebird Cafe, the audience was treated to an enchanting evening of performance and storytelling as each artist sang four original songs.
“All attendees agreed, it was a stand-out event in the huge festival line-up!”
The UNE SRI I Heart Songwriting events were proudly funded by the NSW Government under the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund and delivered in association with Tamworth Regional Council, and in partnership with UNE Tamworth.
