By Bianca Montes

The North Texas chapter of the National Songwriters Association International(NSAI) met for their initial meeting Dec. 8. The NSAI is a non-profit trade association dedicated to the assistance of songwriters. Judging from the participation of the members and potential members, the initial meeting was a networking success.

Regional coordinator Sam Moore took the first half of the meeting to go over the many benefits NSAI has to offer its members, including seminars, critiques by professionals, song contests, and Washington lobbying efforts. He also explained the typical monthly meeting format: 30 minutes of songwriter education, followed by an hour of song critiques.

Members were able to showcase their offerings to their peers for criticism. Highlights of the evening included music offerings from songwriters Steve Verrill, Amber Benson and Ray Phillips.

“Special Someone,” a slow story about searching for his soul-mate, was a nice choice by Verrill. While the song showed promise it was short of the perfect vocal to adding a bit of soul to the piece.

Quick and sassy filled the room when Benson showcased her offering “Grocery Store Hot,” a catchy number that had many toes tapping the floor. Perfectly composed for Sara Evans or Terry Clark, “Grocery Store Hot” is a song to which any woman can relate.

“Ying Yang Twins” started off with the perfect twang of violin strings. Phillips created a strong blend of instrumentation with great compliments to the singer.

Many of those present voiced their optimism that this chapter will be a success. They said the other chapters in the general area – in Fort Worth and East Texas – are too far away to attend on a monthly basis.  By meeting in Allen, it is accessible for people from Dallas and Collin County to the state line. In fact, one member drove down from Durant OK.

The opening meeting of the North Texas chapter of the NSAI showed promise of aid for local songwriters. For more information about the NSAI visit their website at .