Our Mission:
to Catalyze Joy, Hope, and Vitality in Community
through Story and Song
Now in our 36th year, Songwriting Works fulfills our mission and vision by bringing our award-winning, internationally-acclaimed, research-proven programs, training, and publications to those in greatest need of what music makes possible.
As consultants, facilitators, teaching artists, curriculum designers, and event producers, we seek to create unique experiences for all ages.
As a result, individuals and groups can discover and celebrate their own originality and authenticity.
Our approach emphasizes reciprocal inclusion, respect, and access.
Through music and related arts, we create contexts that engage and empower people and their communities.
Videos: Above, Birdie Gintzler and friends performing their song “Gefilte Fish” in Nathan Friedkin’s documentary “A ‘Specially Wonderful Affair.”
Middle: Port Townsend neighbors work on a new song “In Another Universe.”
Below, Songwriting Works’ board president Christopher Bricker and founder Judith-Kate Friedman talk about the power of song; Participant from across the North Olympic Peninsula learn, sing and jam at Community MusicTeams meet-ups which were held throughout October 2025.
From albums of original co-written songs to community workshops and festivals that bring generations together, Songwriting Works meets people where they are.
We work in community and care settings with participants across the continuum of physical, cognitive, and emotional capacities.
Together, we compose, perform, and celebrate each individual’s—and our collective—voice.
THANK YOU.
Songwriting Works appreciates our generous funders and donors.
Our 2025-2027 programs are supported by individuals, business sponsors
and grants including from:
Allen Family Philanthropies, administrated by ArtsFund
ArtsWA - WA State Arts Commision
Port Townsend Arts Commission
City of Port Townsend Lodging Tax Fund
Jefferson County Commissioners Thriving Communities Grant
The Joe and Hellen Darion Foundation
After a ‘pandemic hiatus’ during which our programs took place online only, Songwriting Works brought back our Intergenerational Community MusicTeams series of monthly free workshops to Port Townsend in 2025.