Who can attend?
Anyone interested in writing songs! Whether you've never been to a songwriting workshop or attend them all, this one is one you won't want to miss!

How much does it cost?
The registration fee is $200 per participant or $150 for observers.

What is included in the registration fee?
The registration fee includes admission to all seminars, concerts, and jam sessions as listed on this website. Lodging, meals, and other travelling expenses are not included in the registration fee (unless you are purchasing a package that includes lodging).

Is this a contest?
Yes and No! Anyone can register to attend the workshop as an observer without competing for their spot. Registration is on a first come first serve basis until August 1, 2008 or until all 600 spots are filled. However, in order to be a full participant, you must submit a song and be selected to attend. Each participant may choose to send a song to be considered for the "20 Ultimate Songwriters" which will be chosen by Barbara Cloyd by July 1, 2008.

What are the "20 Ultimate Songwriters"?
These are a group of songwriters chosen by Barbara Cloyd from all applicants. These songwriters are chosen based on creativity, originality, and workmanship. Each of these 20 writers will get one-on-one instruction with Barbara Cloyd on Thursday and will then be able to pitch two of their songs to two very successful publishers out of Nashville, TN. Publishers will provide feedback on their songs to help them learn how to improve their writing and be successful in getting songs cut.

What's in it for the other participants?
EVERYTHING! The first day and last days are for entirely for ALL participants. The two days in between will feature many things to see and experience from more seminars to vendor booths to mix and mingle sessions. Also, all participants are encouraged to come and listen in on Friday's "Song Feedback". You'll learn a ton of valuable information by listening to the publishers critique the songs from the 20 chosen songwriters. EVERY day features a concert followed by a jam session that goes on until the last person leaves. This workshop is for all participants...the 20 chosen songwriters are just an added bonus.

How do I submit a song for a chance to be chosen as one of the 20?
Simply send one of your best original songs to us by using our free song submission link on the home page. Please keep the file size under 4mb and include the lyrics!

I want to sit next to a friend of mine during the concerts. Can you arrange that?
We'll do our best! Just make note of it in the "comments" section when you sign up. Please know that we issue reserved seating based on first come first serve. So if your friend registers a week after you do, we can't guarantee that we can put you together. We'll do our best, though, and we'll even give you the option to give up your seat and move back to your friend's row.

Why is this held in Eureka Springs, Arkansas? Why not in Nashville, TN?
Barbara holds her "Ready for Row" workshop and her "Play for Publishers" workshop each year in Nashville, TN. In her off time, she travels with her "Ready for Row" workshop. Northwest Arkansas is one of the fastest growing regions in the United States, and there are so many talented musicians and songwriters in this area. Eureka Springs is only one hour from Branson, Missouri. We're also within a few hours to Dallas, Tulsa, Kansas City, Little Rock, and Memphis. We've combined Barbara's two best workshops into one Ultimate Workshop and placed in the a wonderful central point that allows many songwriters to attend that couldn't otherwise attend a workshop in Nashville.

In addition, Leslie Wright (founder of the workshop) performs at the Ozark Mountain Hoe-Down from March through December. Leslie and Randall George (owner of the Hoe-Down) are songwriting partners, and Leslie has attended Barbara's workshops in the past. Thank you to the Hoe-Down for letting us have the theater all to ourselves for 4 days!

How experienced in songwriting do I have to be?
If you've never written a song in your life, it's ok! This workshop contains valuable information and tips for the amateur songwriter all the way to the professional. You will love being in a group of people who all share a common love for songwriting and the music business.

Is this a workshop for country music songwriting only?
No! While a big part of the workshop focuses on getting your songs cut in Nashville, it's not just for country music! There are all kinds of publishers in Nashville from bluegrass to hard rock! Regardless of what style of music you write, you will definitely benefit from this workshop.

I still have a question that isn't listed here. Who can I reach?
We'd be glad to visit with you about the workshop! You can reach us by phone or email. This info is on our contact page.

Our Sponsors for 2008: