Songwriting Exhibition 2026: Listening Party with Allison Russell & JT Nero
We are thrilled to announce that the 2026 Songwriting Exhibition has officially launched. This year, we received over 200 original compositions from talented students and educators across the country.
In this special songwriting masterclass from Music Will, Grammy-winning artist Allison Russell and songwriter/producer JT Nero join Mary Claxton to talk about the songwriting process and listen to original songs created by students from across the country.
You’ll hear thoughtful, real-time reactions to songs like “Pretty Boy,” “Alright Sunshine,” and “Let Me Be Me,” along with insights that meet songwriters at every stage.
Below, interact with our moderated Padlet map to leave positive comments and shout-outs for songwriters across the country.
Congratulations to everyone who shared their voice and creativity with us!
Now Playing: Listen & Share Feedback
For Educators: Bring the Exhibition to Your Classroom
Turn the Songwriting Exhibition into a listening and responding lesson! We’ve made it easy to engage your students with the original music created by their peers.
We have curated three levels of PDF Guided Listening Worksheets to fit your schedule. Whether you have 15 minutes or a full class period, these resources help students dive deep into style, melody, and arrangement.
What are the Perks for Participants?
Guaranteed Digital Prize Pack
Every participant with a valid entry receives a prize pack to help them celebrate their work, including virtual publication, a social media toolkit, and an exclusive email signature badge.
Most importantly, every participant will receive personalized written feedback to help them grow as creators, to help them grow as creators, delivered on a personalized printable certificate! This feedback is provided by a panel of higher-ed music educators and industry experts.
A Chance to Win Additional Prizes
Each valid entry is automatically entered into a drawing for an opportunity to win:
Virtual Artist Feedback Sessions
Receive targeted, professional advice on your song submission in an intimate Zoom setting. These sessions are limited to 3 song submissions per slot, ensuring your track receives dedicated, specific feedback from artists like Suzi, Jack Barksdale, Justin Nozuka, Erin Kirby, or Brother Wallace.
Gear & Swag
Prizes from Mattel, Kala Ukuleles, JBL Bluetooth Speakers (provided by HARMAN), and Sweetwater Gift Cards.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
See Collaboration in Action!
The Music Will staff teamed up to create our own submission! Written by Mary Claxton (Director of Teaching & Learning), this track features a collaboration of musicians from across our staff on various instruments—mixed by Mary and brought to life with a video by Clayton McIntyre (Manager of Content Production).
Music Will Songwriting Resources
These lessons for songwriters of all ages and skill levels make songwriting easy.
Songwriting with Mary
Hip Hop Songwriting
Making Music with Soundtrap
