Isabelle Gord sits and discusses after performing a song at a songwriter’s workshop on October 3, 2024. Photography: Christine Toliver.
The University of Mississippi School of Music sponsored a singer-songwriter workshop on Thursday, Oct. 3, at 7 p.m. in the conference room of the Music Building.
The idea for the workshop came about when junior music education major Isabel Goad and Kirsten “KK” Deans, a graduate student and member of the Ole Miss women’s basketball team, met over their love of music. Ta.
“[Music]is really important to me and it’s really important to KK. I’ve never shared my music publicly with anyone and neither has she,” Gord said. “So when KK and I first met and really talked about this, it was a very vulnerable thing for us to share.”
The pair hopes the workshop will be a place where participants can share their craft without fear of criticism.
“A lot of people are afraid to let that side out because it’s vulnerable. I just want everyone to feel comfortable and safe here,” Gord said. he said.
There isn’t much structure to the sessions, as Deans and Gordo rely on the people around them to guide their time together.
“We don’t know how many people are going to show up or what time they’re going to show up,” Gord said. “We’re just sitting here and hoping for the best. And what we’re both saying is we just hope it’s organic. Our goal is to welcome and invite students of all kinds, whether you like classical, rock, or metal.
This is the third session of the semester, and the Dean and Gord have plans to hold more sessions throughout the rest of the year.
Madison Murphy, a second-year elementary education major, is a student songwriter who participated in the event.
“I’ve always loved music, and it’s been really helpful to feel like I’m being seen in different areas,” Murphy said. “It helps me express myself. Through this event, I hope to make connections, meet people, and get better at songwriting.”
