Back in March, I gave a recommendation for the recent Music to Life CD (click here for the story), a brilliant compilation of songs and songwriters who were finalists in the 2006 Public Domain Foundation Music to Life Songwriting Contest & Concert.

Songwriters from around the country submitted their songs which were judged by a panel of reknowned singer-songwriters. The finalists were invited to the Kerrville Folk Festival last spring to perform in a special “Music to Life ” concert at the prestigious festival. A grand prize winner was chosen, and a charitable contribution was made to a charity in their honor.

As I’ve already mentioned, the CD that was issued featuring the finalists is superb. It is not always easy to write a song that deals with issues of the day that can motivate, educate and also entertain an audience.

The Public Domain Foundation, formed by Noel “Paul” Stookey, has announced the next songwriting contest. Here is the press release:

Bringing Music to Life

The Fourth Public Domain Foundation Music to Life Songwriting Contest & Concert

Does music really makes a difference in the world?

We’d like to think so. Since 1971, Public Domain Foundation has spent almost 2 million dollars supporting children and family service organizations, domestically and abroad, through the royalties of just one composition, “The Wedding Song.” Here’s your chance to bring the special message of your music to life and sing it to the world.

The fourth MTL series once again seeks original compositions dedicated to a social or political issue of concern. Finalists receive travel stipends and free passes to the Kerrville Folk Festival, and top award winners receive donations of up to $1,000 to the charitable organization(s) of their choice.

Ten finalists will share their original songs at the MTL concert on May 31, 2008. Live recordings of this concert will also be made and distributed to provide additional exposure for the artists and their issues of concern. One grand prize award winner will join other festival performers at the main, Outdoor Theatre for Saturday evening’s performance.

Songs will be reviewed by an esteemed panel of well established folk singer/songwriters including: Judy Collins, Christine Lavin, Holly Near, Tom Paxton, Noel Paul Stookey, Mary Travers and Peter Yarrow.

DEADLINE: Entries must be postmarked no later than February 1, 2008.

For a full set of contest guidelines, please visit our web site at: www.pdfoundation.org or send a SASE to Public Domain Foundation, MTL Awards, P.O. Box 409, Wilder, NH 05088

This is a wonderful opportunity for musicians and music lovers. The world desparately needs songs that will inspire during these difficult times. I hope to have an opportunity to play many songs that will be submitted to this contest!

So get going!!!! Start making beautiful music that will help create a positive change in the world!!!!!!!!!