Songs of the Susquehanna webinar set for Jan. 13 ahead of Jan. 31 deadline for river song submissions

In preparation for the 2025 Songs of the Susquehanna submission deadline of Jan. 31, the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association is hosting an online Songs of the Susquehanna Webinar on Monday, Jan. 13, 2025, starting at 7 p.m.

The program will include Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper John Zaktansky giving an overview of the project, how it began and what sort of response it has received over the past four years. It will also include potential ideas for new songs and an overview of the special Vol. 5 Greatest Hits album planned for this year.

Musicians Don Shappelle and Jack Servello along with lyricist Bill Dann will be involved in the webinar, each offering insight in how they develop songs and answering questions on how turn ideas into potential submissions. There will also be discussion about a recording studio option in Milton for those that may need that resource.

"This webinar offers a glimpse into our highly popular Songs of the Susquehanna project for those who may have been interested but not sure how to take the next step in getting involved," said Zaktansky. "Don, Jack and Bill have been involved with every album since the beginning and huge advocates of the project and our river in general. They represent both sides of our vast watershed and bring a lot of collective musical wisdom to the discussion."

Participants will be able to ask questions and get feedback on ideas, especially in how to take the next step in turning that idea into a polished submission. For those who may be musically inclined but not as lyrically gifted, there are some potential new original song options available to run with, as well. 

"This project represents quite a bit of diversity in terms of music genres and experience levels. We have wily veterans submitting content alongside musical first-timers and each album so far has shown some of that diversity," said Zaktansky. "This is the perfect opportunity for people who may be interested in pursuing music but needing an extra push to get their ideas and music out for public response."

All songs submitted by Jan. 31 will be put online for feedback throughout the month of February 2025 with the final Vol. 5 Songs of the Susquehanna playlist being announced in early March. More details on the project, requirements for submissions and how to turn in a song by the Jan. 31 deadline can be found here.

Those interested in joining the Jan. 13 webinar to learn more should register using the following form: