Johnny Mercer Foundation Songwriters Project Set for 6/18-23

The Johnny Mercer Foundation and the American Music Theatre Project at Northwestern University will once again produce a weeklong songwriting intensive for emerging songwriters and writing teams, 18-30 led by award-winning master teachers Andrew Lippa, Craig Carnelia and Lari White.

The program celebrates the legacy of legendary songwriter Johnny Mercer who was a dedicated mentor to young singers and songwriters throughout his career. The Johnny Mercer Foundation’s mission is devoted to preserving and celebrating the work of Mercer and other great American songwriters, and to introducing their music to a new generation of listeners through innovative educational programs.

Now in its seventh year, the Johnny Mercer Foundation Songwriters Project hosts the nation's most promising songwriters across all genres including musical theatre, pop, country, Latin, rock, and contemporary pop. Over 90 applicants from every genre applied for one of 16 spots in the prestigious program.

The 2012 program will be led by returning master teachers Andrew Lippa (The Addams Family, BIG FISH), Craig Carnelia (SWEET SMELL OF SUCCESS), and three-time Grammy winner Lari White (GREEN-EYED SOUL).

Master teachers in previous years have included Amanda McBroom (THE ROSE), Lin-Manuel Miranda (IN THE HEIGHTS), David Zippel (CITY OF ANGELS) and John Bucchino (A CATERED AFFAIR).

Over 90 artists from every genre applied for one of 16 spots in the prestigious program that has mentored artists like Latin Grammy-winner Obed Bermudez and singer/actress Jennifer Peña and been a catalyst to the careers of Benj Pasek & Justin Paul, Michael Koomin & Chris Dimond, Adam Gwon, Carrie Manolakos and Morgan Karr.

Through the generosity of the Johnny Mercer Foundation, the program is free-of-charge to selected songwriters who are housed on Northwestern University’s campus and provided with a stipend for travel and meals.

Selected songwriters will be announced in mid-May. For more information visit: www.mercersongwriters.org.

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