Get ready to experience the magic of original music, performed by the very artists who crafted it, during the 2023 Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival from October 3-8.
This year’s festival is set to welcome over 100 talented songwriters from across the nation and a few from around the world to 19 fantastic beachside venues around Pensacola and Pensacola Beach.
With more than a decade under its belt, the Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival has become a beloved annual tradition, growing in size and excellence with each passing year. Over six unforgettable days, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with these creators, hear the stories behind their songs, and bask in the splendid weather on picturesque Pensacola Beach.
“The diversity of songwriters this year mirrors the uniqueness of our pristine beach,” remarked Reneda Cross Pasquale, festival director. “We’re also proud to shine a spotlight on our local singer-songwriters. The Pensacola area’s wealth of talent is a hidden gem!”
On Friday night, Oct. 6, the Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival proudly presents the Concert of Light: A Night with the Veterans at Pensacola Beach Church. Tickets are $30 each, with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the R&DA Military Assistance Program and The Captain Joseph House Foundation.
In addition, this year’s stellar headliners include:
• Keifer and Shawna Thompson, the American country music husband and wife duo behind Thompson Square, who exploded out of Nashville with their music hit, “Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not.”
• Acclaimed singer-songwriter Jamie O’Neal, sharing insights into her hit single, “There Is No Arizona,” amongst many others.
• Country music artist Andy Griggs, who captivated audiences with his classic hit, “You Won’t Ever Be Lonely,” will talk about his songwriting process.
Explore the full lineup of participating songwriters here and check out the complete daily schedule, special event venues, and ticket details here.
In addition to being a musical extravaganza, the annual festival also doubles as an educational opportunity.
“Our festival has its roots in music education,” Cross emphasized. “Each year, we partner with three local schools to empower children with the creative, confidence-boosting, and discipline-nurturing effects of music.”
Native American songwriter, record producer, and recording artist Sean Gasaway, the Education Coordinator for the Mississippi Songwriters Alliance, as well as songwriters involved in the Nashville Country Music Hall of Fame’s ‘Words and Music’ program, will lead workshops at Pensacola Beach Elementary School, Gulf Breeze Middle School, and Dixon School of Arts and Science.
In addition to school programs, the festival will be working on-site with Valerie’s House, Magdalene’s, and the P.A.C.E Center for Girls.
Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival is your chance to meet the writers and hear the stories behind the songs.
Visit their website here to find all the information about the singers and upcoming festival schedule.
