Local Musicians to Collaborate in Tally Ho Songwriter Circle

Next month, the Tally Ho Theatre kicks off a music series intended not only to show off the familiar downtown structure in its new capacity as a music venue, but also to give a glimpse into the creative processes of some great artists. 

The Songwriter Circle: 20+One series’ first show begins at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 12, and the idea is to have artists share original material, play a little of someone else’s music and then write a song together.

The first show features several artists who are familiar to Loudoun’s music aficionados (descriptions provided by Tally Ho):

• Todd Wright, one of the best songwriters working today. In 2012 he co-wrote the 6-times platinum hit "Love You Anyway" for Celine Dion. His work appears on TV shows, commercials and the charts. Todd just concluded a successful European songwriting tour.
• Michael Sheppard, Grammy nominated and Wammie winning singer/songwriter has been thrilling audiences with his songs and voice for years. Michael is a winner of many prestigious songwriter awards including National Songwriter and Mid-Atlantic Songwriter of the Year. 
• Gary Smallwood is well known to audiences throughout the East Coast. Appearing on the new Bret Michaels CD is one of the past year's highlights. He is a wonderful singer and a fantastic guitarist. He is also a high caliber songwriter and will be performing songs from his highly anticipated upcoming CD.
• Stilson Greene released his first solo CD "Young Lions" in 2012 to high critical acclaim and sales. Many of the songs have garnered radio play across the US and Europe. He will perform songs from the CD live for the first time.
• Mark Williams will augment this group with his guitar and arrangement skills. Mark is one of the most sought after musicians and producers in the Mid-Atlantic region.

"You can expect an evening of stories, songs, laughter and maybe some tears", said Greene in a press release about the event. “The five of us have worked together many times. We share songwriting credits and stage time together. We all share a deep respect for each other's work.”

Stilson said the organizers hope the event grows into a regular monthly series featuring a rotating slate of regional and national artists.

“I'm so damn excited about it I wish that I could be in the audience to see it all unfold,” Greene said, adding that his enthusiasm won’t drive the event as much as a great audience.

"This will be a perfect opportunity for the community to embrace the Tally Ho as a new and important weave to the fabric of Downtown Leesburg," Greene said.

He said the event would also serve as a great opportunity to show support for the “artists who happen to be local and always answer the bell for this community's causes and needs."

Songwriter Circle: 20+One will run from 7:30 p.m. until about 9:30 p.m., limited tables and chairs available.

Tickets cost $20 and can be purchased online. Advance ticket purchases are encouraged.