Songwriters Association of Washington upcoming events

SAW Songwriters' Showcase: Reflections on the Now (08/19/2026)

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

As the summer heat cooks the reflecting pool, it might be good to reflect in song about the present state of songwriting, songs, our world and our part in making it better or ignoring it. Music and songwriting is how we ponder. Hank Dietle's is super cool all year round but their AC makes them especially so in August.

Eric Selby, a sought-after session man, has a new chapter in his storied life as a songwriting guitar man. Informed by years of stage time, his act is as consistent as a back beat and timely as the now.

Teghan Devon, a favorite at FAI and other houses of song worship is just snarky enough, sensitive enough and way too talented. These are songs that will cause feelings that stay with you.

Michelle Lockey is an award-winning songwriter you have probably heard, even if you don't know her name. Her music fills the tender, tense and reflective moments of your favorite show. It adds a richness and meaning to what otherwise might, for example, be a long shot of Longmire staring at cows and looking sad. With an engaging style and great stage presence, she brings them alive at Dietle's

Amoreena, EMMY winning television reporter and folk artist, Lindsey Mastiss, has embraced her Greek heritage and artistic enthusiasm into a campy compelling genre bending collection of original songs. There is a charming theatricality to her unique and compelling songs. Come see her before the big move!

Kelly Diamond and Jay Keating will host.

Wed August 19th from 8-10:30pm

Suggested donation $10 - $20

Hank Dietle's Tavern
110110 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD

Is AI Ruining Music? (08/22/2026)

Sat, 22 Aug 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Is AI Ruining Music? A documentary screening and discussion with Emmy winning journalist, Lindsey Mastis

Saturday August 22nd at Island Pride Oasis 12 noon

In her documentary, filmed at NAMM, Lindsey Mastis captures a pivotal moment in the music industry. Filmed at the largest music conference in the United States, the documentary features Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Jackson Browne, Grammy-winning artist Rosanne Cash, union leaders, film composers, DJs, and emerging musicians. Some see AI as an existential threat to their livelihoods while others embrace it as a creative tool that can open doors traditional music training never could. Journalist and songwriter Lindsey Mastis -- who releases music under the name Amoreena Athanas -- explores the debate from inside the industry. There will be a live (and lively) audience Q&A following the screening

The event is free to SAW members but you must register.

MoCo Folk Festival (08/29/2026)

Sat, 29 Aug 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Saturday, August 29 | 12:00–5:00 PM
Rockville Memorial Library & Rockville Town Square

Join us for MoCo Folko Fest, a free afternoon celebrating the vibrant local music and songwriting community. From 12:00 to 5:00 PM on Saturday, August 29, the Rockville Memorial Library will host a day of live music in Rockville Town Square, just outside the library at 21 Maryland Ave, Rockville on the Town Square Stage.

The festival is curated by the Songwriters' Association of Washington (SAW) and the Institute of Musical Traditions (IMT), with help from rob's open mics, all local nonprofit organizations that have spent more than 40 years supporting, teaching, showcasing, and celebrating musicians and songwriters throughout the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region.

The afternoon begins with two hours of "open mic" style performances, featuring two-song sets by a diverse group of local songwriters. The program will then spotlight a lineup of talented performers, including winners of the prestigious Mid-Atlantic Song Contest.

Throughout the day, members of the songwriting community will also be available to meet with aspiring songwriters of all ages. Whether you're just beginning to write songs or looking for ways to connect with the local music scene, this is a great opportunity to learn about resources, performance opportunities, and the vibrant songwriting community in the region.

The Rockville Memorial Library has proudly hosted SAW's Songwriter's Toolbox program since 2016, with only a brief pause during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Songwriters' Association of Washington is honored to continue its long-standing partnership with Montgomery County Public Libraries in bringing music education, performance, and community engagement to local audiences.

Admission is free, and all are welcome.

New Deal Open Mic (1st Tuesday) (09/01/2026)

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Lynn Hollyfield hosts an open mic at the New Deal Cafe every first Tuesday.

• Full PA with vocal mics and instrument pickups. Upright piano available.
• In Person sign-ups at 6:30, 2 songs, 10 minutes, 7-9:30PM.
You can ask questions by emailing lynn@lynnhollyfield.com. See ya there!

New Deal Cafe
113 Centerway
Greenbelt, MD 20770
(301) 474-5642 (for venue information)
www.newdealcafe.com

SAW Second Saturday Toolbox (online) (09/12/2026)

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 16:30:00 GMT

SAW Virtual Toolbox w Christie Chirinos

In the tradition of our years of Saturday songwriting toolboxes, join your host, Christie Chirinos, (christiechirinos.com ) for a refreshing, frank and helpful look at where your songs are now and how they might be improved.

Bring your finished, almost finished and just started songs to a session with other songwriters. You will perform your song for the group from your end and receive a kind but thorough look at how others hear your work.

Please have the lyrics of your song ready (in a format that works for a screen share) or submit it beforehand to the moderator (email address will be provided to registrants) so others can follow along.

Christie and your fellow songwriters will bring you into the community of songwriting and give your process some new perspectives.

New Deal Open Mic (1st Tuesday) (10/06/2026)

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Lynn Hollyfield hosts an open mic at the New Deal Cafe every first Tuesday.

New Deal Open Mic (1st Tuesday) (11/03/2026)

Wed, 04 Nov 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Lynn Hollyfield hosts an open mic at the New Deal Cafe every first Tuesday.

New Deal Open Mic (1st Tuesday) (12/01/2026)

Wed, 02 Dec 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Lynn Hollyfield hosts an open mic at the New Deal Cafe every first Tuesday.