The annual Arizona Songwriters Gathering is much more than a festival.

The free event, which celebrates its 26th year this month, is a free cultural program open to the public to celebrate songwriting. Look for a unique day of workshops, sharing of original music, and networking that is held in partnership with the Arizona Songwriters Association.

The Gathering takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 28 at the Glendale Public Library, 5959 W. Brown St.

Free parking is available in the library parking lot, with additional parking at the adjacent historic Sahuaro Ranch Park, located to the south of the library.

Seating is available at each performance and workshop area, with plenty of room to bring family and friends. Food and beverages are available for purchase from the library vending machine and from Diner on Wheels food truck throughout the day.

Here’s a look at the Gathering’s itinerary:

Educational Presentations

Taking place in the auditorium and large meeting room, these programs are presented by local and national experts:

Music Copyright Wins & Losses: Presented by Dr. E Michael Harrington

Songwriting Dynamics: Accomplished songwriters answer the critical questions with Arizona Songwriters Association co-founder Jon Iger, Jeff Dayton, Les Scott, Randy Brown and Rhonda Hitchcock-Mast

Fervor Records Top Executives Q & A Session: With David Hilker and Jeff Freundlich

Music Copyright 101: With Holland Gormley and John Riley from the U.S. Copyright Office in Washington, D.C.

The ASU Songwriting and Production Program – What It Offers: With Erin Barra, director of popular music at Arizona State University

History of the Arizona Music Scene: With Valley radio veteran Jim West

Basics of Recording with Digital Audio Workstation: By producer and studio engineer John Keenan

Writing Songs for Yourself as a Performing Songwriter: With veteran performer/songwriter Eric Douglas

Nashville Songwriter Association International – What Can It Do for You?: With Larry Vail and Dan Gutenfauf

Song Critique Session: With Randy Brown and Les Scott

Featured Performers

In the auditorium 4–4:45 p.m. for a closing concert with Ashley Wineland and Ramsey Roberson.

Andy Hurlbut Songwriting Challenge

A songwriting challenge in honor of Andy Hurlbut 12:30–2 p.m. in the Andy Hurlbut Memorial Ballad Tree. Write a new song or play one you have already written using any of the titles Andy suggested: “Half a Mile from Where I Stand,” “Coyote Dreams,” or “Over the Edge.” All are welcome to participate. If you have not written a song, you may share a song in tribute to Andy. Participants will perform round-robin as time allows.

Click here for more information on the Gathering.