August 7, 2025

Join us on Zoom this weekend.

Here's what will be happening on Sunday, August 10 at 2 p.m.

We'll meet on Zoom. Bring something to share.

Here's the link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82787694684?pwd=dmJWemxOckJET29mdCtJQjc3Ry8yZz09

Meeting ID: 827 8769 4684

Passcode: 939440

Last week on Zoom:

Participants:

John L, Blue Road Troubadour

David M (he left before I got the screenshot)

David W, So I'll go,

Trish Host, The short awkward Judd Q Harris Birthday song for 2025

We shared funny and not funny stories about military life and life in general.

We haven't received the schedule for the workshops hosted by the SSV home office yet. We'll post it when we receive it.

We had some feedback that the link didn't work last month, so here's a refreshed one

Click here to join the Master Class Zoom Meeting



Coming up:

We'll be at Artichoke Community Music on August 17on Zoom August 10 and .

Save the dates!

The weekly session with our partners, Warrior Beats is on Wednesdays at 6 PST:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89190909283?pwd=1jX8bTa3H3qWLEsQ6rDbrrcPBjPBzN.1

July 31, 2025

Join us on Zoom this weekend.

Here's what will be happening on Sunday, August 3 at 2 p.m.

We'll meet on Zoom. Bring something to share.

Here's the link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82787694684?pwd=dmJWemxOckJET29mdCtJQjc3Ry8yZz09

Meeting ID: 827 8769 4684

Passcode: 939440

Here's Bill Valenti, performing at our fundraiser for Artichoke Community Music on July 24!

We haven't received the schedule for the workshops hosted by the SSV home office yet. We'll post it when we receive it.

We had some feedback that the link didn't work last month, so here's a refreshed one

Click here to join the Master Class Zoom Meeting



Coming up:

We'll be on Zoom August 10 and at Artichoke Community Music on August 17.

Save the dates!

The weekly session with our partners, Warrior Beats is on Wednesdays at 6 PST:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89190909283?pwd=1jX8bTa3H3qWLEsQ6rDbrrcPBjPBzN.1

And don't forget:

July 26, 2025

Join us on Zoom this weekend.

Here's what will be happening on Sunday, July 27 at 2 p.m.

We'll meet on Zoom. Bring something to share. This month's theme:

Play It Like You Mean It

See below for details

Here's the link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82787694684?pwd=dmJWemxOckJET29mdCtJQjc3Ry8yZz09

Meeting ID: 827 8769 4684

Passcode: 939440

From the SSV home office:

We’re thrilled to welcome Michael O’Connor to lead our July Master Class at Soldier Songs and Voices.

This month’s song prompt is:

Look around the room for something that comforts you – write a song purely about that thing.

7/28 5:00pm CT : Writing Session

See you Monday!

Click here to join the Master Class Zoom Meeting



July's Theme

Play It Like You Mean It: Performance prep. Less is more. The metronome is your best friend. Playing well with others. How to learn to play and sing a song. Strumming patterns with a pick. Fingerpicking patterns.

Coming up:

We'll be on Zoom August 3 and 10 and at Artichoke Community Music on August 17.

Save the dates!

The weekly session with our partners, Warrior Beats is on Wednesdays at 6 PST:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89190909283?pwd=1jX8bTa3H3qWLEsQ6rDbrrcPBjPBzN.1

July 16, 2024

Welcome!

Join us for some in-person inspiration on Sunday, July 20 at 2 p.m.

We'll be in the upper classroom, as usual. Bring a song or two to share! Or just listen!

Here's where:

Artichoke Community Music

2007 SE Powell Blvd, Portland, OR 97202

Map

And don't forget our June Theme,

Play It Like You Mean It.

Consider this idea and if it finds its way into your songwriting or your choice of others' songs to play, enjoy exploring it.

We won't be Zooming for this event.



Coming up next week!

July 24, 7-9 p.m.

SSV Songwriter Showcase Fundraiser for Artichoke Community Music

$15 suggested donation

Last week on Zoom:

Participants:

Ed shared information he gathered on "Play it like you mean it" Ed dropped the document into SSV Google Drive (good stuff)

Jeff C Wonder how it feels

David M showing up as usual

Deb Perfect Harmony

We had a lively discussion around what it means to "play it like you mean it"

On Wednesdays, in collaboration with Warrior Beat, we're offering something a little different on our Zoom space. We hope you'll stop by and check it out!

Here's an opportunity to sample a whole new way of connecting with the rhythmic part of what we do.

Join the Zoom Meeting from 6-7 PST:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85695100053?pwd=RWpjcnVwM1hzWTBHenpqYnYxamdyQT09

Meeting ID: 856 9510 0053

Passcode: 700977



And from the folks at the SSV home office:

We’re thrilled to welcome Michael O’Connor to lead our July Master Class at Soldier Songs and Voices.

Michael O'Connor, a native Texan residing in Washington State, is a well respected guitarist and singer-songwriter celebrated for his soulful voice and gritty storytelling. Inducted with a star into the South Texas Walk of Fame and honored in the Corpus Christi Songwriter Hall of Fame, O'Connor's contributions to the music scene are widely recognized and revered.

A lifetime of hard-won experience on- and off-stage has allowed Michael a rare insight into the world of the rough, the faithless, the romantic, and the unlucky, all of whom find refuge in his songs. As a guitarist and multi-instrumentalist, O'Connor's virtuosity shines through in his performances and recordings. His versatility allows him to explore a wide range of musical styles, from blues and folk to rock and country, showcasing his skill and artistry.

His career has seen him perform at iconic venues and festivals all over the United States and Europe all while touring with some of the most respected artists in Texas music. A seasoned performer, O'Connor has graced stages large and small, captivating audiences with his intimate performances, quick wit and understated charm.

O’Connor’s contributions to the music scene extend beyond his solo work, as he collaborates with fellow artists and shares his talents through his work with Veterans and in the community.

With over fifty album credits to his name and a discography that reflects his evolution as an artist, Michael O'Connor continues to push the boundaries of his craft, exploring new sounds and styles while staying true to his roots.

From honky-tonks to concert halls, Michael O'Connor's music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, proving that the spirit of Texas music and songwriting is alive and well in the hands of this gifted troubadour.

This month’s song prompt is:

Look around the room for something that comforts you – write a song purely about that thing.

See you Monday!!

July Schedule

7/21 5:00pm CT : Michael O’Connor

7/28 5:00pm CT : Writing Session

Click here to join the Master Class Zoom Meeting

Look for us on Zoom on July 27. The next in-person Vets' Song Circle will be August 17. Join us!

July 3, 2025

Join us on Zoom this weekend.

Here's what will be happening on Sunday, July 6 at 2 p.m.

We'll meet on Zoom. Bring something to share. This month's theme:

Play It Like You Mean It

See below for details

Here's the link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82787694684?pwd=dmJWemxOckJET29mdCtJQjc3Ry8yZz09

Meeting ID: 827 8769 4684

Passcode: 939440

Coming up soon!



July 24, 7-9 p.m.

SSV Songwriter Showcase Fundraiser for Artichoke Community Music

Purchase tickets here - $15 suggested donation



Last week on Zoom:

Participants:

John L, Quick Silver Miner

Jeff C, Mister

Deb, Invisable Chains

David W, Honesty

David M, Leftover Sun

Ed, Shared a compilation of several song writers and thier perspectives on "crafting" songs

JMichaels

Joanne

Everyone showed up in full force today and contributed to the conversation around song crafting. Ed's compilation of song writers' perspectives made great starting points to get us all thinking and talking. Very good turn out, great music and interesting perspectives.



From the SSV home office:

Stay tuned. We haven't heard anything from the folks in Texas. The link should work anyway.

Click here to join the Master Class Zoom Meeting



July's Theme

Play It Like You Mean It: Performance prep. Less is more. The metronome is your best friend. Playing well with others. How to learn to play and sing a song. Strumming patterns with a pick. Fingerpicking patterns.

Coming up:

We'll be on Zoom July 13 and at Artichoke Community Music on July 20. Save the dates!

And don't forget the weekly session with our partners, Warrior Beats on Wednesdays at 6 PST:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89190909283?pwd=1jX8bTa3H3qWLEsQ6rDbrrcPBjPBzN.1

June 25, 2025

Join us on Zoom this weekend.

Here's what will be happening on Sunday, June 29 at 2 p.m.

We'll meet on Zoom. Bring something to share. This month's theme:

Song Craft

See below for details

Here's the link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82787694684?pwd=dmJWemxOckJET29mdCtJQjc3Ry8yZz09

Meeting ID: 827 8769 4684

Passcode: 939440

Save the Date!

September 6, 4-6:30

2025 Hagler’s Farm Concert and Fundraiser

More info coming soon!



Last week on Zoom:

We built it, but nobody came. The good weather? We think so. Keep comin' back!



From the SSV home office:

June Songwriting Sessions and Master Class

This month’s song prompts are:

”The Family Business”

”Goliath”

”Let them”

See you Monday!!

June Schedule

6/30 5:00 CT: Song Share and Revue

Click here to join the Master Class Zoom Meeting



June's Theme

Song Craft: This is as much about listening as it is about creating meaningful songs. What makes a good song good? Why do I keep writing the same song, over and over? If you have to explain a song, it's not done yet.

So, give it a try. Or do what you usually do. We'll have some encouraging words, but no song police will be on duty.

Coming up:

We'll be on ZoomJuly 6 and 15,

and at Artichoke Community Music on July 20. Save the dates!

And don't forget the weekly session with our partners, Warrior Beats on Wednesdays at 6 PST:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89190909283?pwd=1jX8bTa3H3qWLEsQ6rDbrrcPBjPBzN.1

June 19, 2025

Join us on Zoom this weekend.

Here's what will be happening on Sunday, June 22 at 2 p.m.

We'll meet on Zoom. Bring something to share. This month's theme:

Song Craft

See below for details

Here's the link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82787694684?pwd=dmJWemxOckJET29mdCtJQjc3Ry8yZz09

Meeting ID: 827 8769 4684

Passcode: 939440

Save the Date!

September 6, 4-6:30

2025 Hagler’s Farm Concert and Fundraiser

More info coming soon!

Last week at Artichoke:

There was 4 of us: John,Sean, Jason(returning) and Carl. We played originals. Sean brought 3 covers. Carl presented some quotes from Guy Clark relating to songwriting. Jason had participated at …. He brought his guitar and harps.



From the SSV home office:

June Songwriting Sessions and Master Class

This month’s song prompts are:

”The Family Business”

”Goliath”

”Let them”

See you Monday!!

June Schedule

6/23 5:00pm CT : Writing Session

6/30 5:00 CT: Song Share and Revue

Click here to join the Master Class Zoom Meeting



June's Theme

Song Craft: This is as much about listening as it is about creating meaningful songs. What makes a good song good? Why do I keep writing the same song, over and over? If you have to explain a song, it's not done yet.

So, give it a try. Or do what you usually do. We'll have some encouraging words, but no song police will be on duty.

Coming up:

We'll be on Zoom June 29 and July 6 and at Artichoke Community Music on July 20. Save the dates!

And don't forget the weekly session with our partners, Warrior Beats on Wednesdays at 6 PST:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89190909283?pwd=1jX8bTa3H3qWLEsQ6rDbrrcPBjPBzN.1


June 12, 2025

Welcome!

Join us for some in-person inspiration on Sunday, June 15 at 2 p.m.

We'll be in the upper classroom, as usual. Bring a song or two to share! Or just listen!

Here's where:

Artichoke Community Music

2007 SE Powell Blvd, Portland, OR 97202

Map

And don't forget our June Theme,

Song Craft.

Consider this idea and if it finds its way into your songwriting or your choice of others' songs to play, enjoy exploring it. Thanks to Carl for suggesting this one.

We won't be Zooming for this event.



The PCC Rock Creek VRC Beginning Guitar Class!

On Wednesdays, in collaboration with Warrior Beat, we're offering something a little different on our Zoom space. We hope you'll stop by and check it out!

Here's an opportunity to sample a whole new way of connecting with the rhythmic part of what we do.

Join the Zoom Meeting from 6-7 PST:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85695100053?pwd=RWpjcnVwM1hzWTBHenpqYnYxamdyQT09

Meeting ID: 856 9510 0053

Passcode: 700977



And from the folks at the SSV home office:

We’re thrilled to welcome Susan Gibson to lead our June Master Class at Soldier Songs and Voices. Susan is a gifted songwriter, best known for penning “Wide Open Spaces,” and has been an invaluable coach at the Reveille Songwriting Retreat. Beyond her musical talents, she is an incredible human being who brings warmth, insight, and encouragement to every session.

This month’s song prompts are:

”The Family Business”

”Goliath”

”Let them”

See you Monday!!

June Schedule

6/16 5:00pm CT : Susan Gibson

Check out her music here!

6/23 5:00pm CT : Writing Session

6/30 5:00 CT: Song Share and Revue

Click here to join the Master Class Zoom Meeting

Look for us on Zoom on June 22. The next in-person Vets' Song Circle will be July 20. Join us!


June 4, 2025

Join us on Zoom this weekend.

Here's what will be happening on Sunday, June 8 at 2 p.m.

We'll meet on Zoom. Bring something to share. This month's theme:

Song Craft

See below for details

Here's the link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82787694684?pwd=dmJWemxOckJET29mdCtJQjc3Ry8yZz09

Meeting ID: 827 8769 4684

Passcode: 939440

Save the Date!

September 6, 4-6:30

2025 Hagler’s Farm Concert and Fundraiser

More info coming soon!

Last week on Zoom:

Participants:

Rob Miller (new) Trawlerman song

Ed, Shopping around, Chew (big) Bone

John L showed up from Kerrville

Trish (host) Dirty ol Dog, QOOC

We did a lot of introductions and getting to know Rob. There was some Zoom learning curves. Ed pulled up a song on Guitar tabs and we discovered another way to share a song through the app. Auto scroll and video share. we had discussion around crafting a song,



June Songwriting Sessions and Master Class

We’re thrilled to welcome Susan Gibson to lead our June Master Class at Soldier Songs and Voices. Susan is a gifted songwriter, best known for penning “Wide Open Spaces,” and has been an invaluable coach at the Reveille Songwriting Retreat. Beyond her musical talents, she is an incredible human being who brings warmth, insight, and encouragement to every session.

This month’s song prompts are:

”The Family Business”

”Goliath”

”Let them”

See you Monday!!

June Schedule

6/2 5:00pm CT : Writing Session

6/9 5:00pm CT : Writing Session

6/16 5:00pm CT : Susan Gibson

6/23 5:00pm CT : Writing Session

6/30 5:00 CT: Song Share and Revue

Click here to join the Master Class Zoom Meeting



June's Theme

Song Craft: This is as much about listening as it is about creating meaningful songs. What makes a good song good? Why do I keep writing the same song, over and over? If you have to explain a song, it's not done yet.

So, give it a try. Or do what you usually do. We'll have some encouraging words, but no song police will be on duty.

Coming up:

We'll be on Zoom June 8 and at Artichoke Community Music on June 15. Save the dates!

And don't forget the weekly session with our partners, Warrior Beats on Wednesdays at 6 PST:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89190909283?pwd=1jX8bTa3H3qWLEsQ6rDbrrcPBjPBzN.1

May 28, 2025

Join us on Zoom this weekend.

Here's what will be happening on Sunday, June 1 at 2 p.m.

We'll meet on Zoom. Bring something to share. This month's theme:

Song Craft

See below for details

Here's the link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82787694684?pwd=dmJWemxOckJET29mdCtJQjc3Ry8yZz09

Meeting ID: 827 8769 4684

Passcode: 939440

Last week on Zoom:

Participants:

John L, Steal Blue Eyes

David M binging his whole self to the live

Deb she was representing Kerrville

JMichaels, So Easy Loving You

Most people showed up well into this session so the screen shot doesn't reflect the attendance. We talked about music stuff it was vey casual.



The Songwriting Sessions and Master Class are back!!

We’re thrilled to share that Soldier Songs & Voices’ Master Class and Songwriting Sessions are back at 5:00 PM Central Time! You’ll learn from guest instructors, swap feedback with fellow songwriters, and lean into the healing power of music. We’ll meet in our usual space (online via Zoom – link below), so grab your notebook, your guitar, and your creative spirit.

See you Monday!

June Schedule

TBA

Click here to join the Master Class Zoom Meeting



June's Theme

Song Craft: This is as much about listening as it is about creating meaningful songs. What makes a good song good? Why do I keep writing the same song, over and over? If you have to explain a song, it's not done yet.

So, give it a try. Or do what you usually do. We'll have some encouraging words, but no song police will be on duty.

Coming up:

We'll be on Zoom June 8 and at Artichoke Community Music on June 15. Save the dates!

And don't forget the weekly session with our partners, Warrior Beats on Wednesdays at 6 PST:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89190909283?pwd=1jX8bTa3H3qWLEsQ6rDbrrcPBjPBzN.1