A marvelous word has stirred my heart as I mention my works to the king. My tongue is the pen of a skillful scribe.

—Psalm 45:1 CEB

Writer Resources…

Here are some resources I have used or come across in my writing journey if you’re interested in writing music and looking for a place to start. Since the news broke that Finale notation software coming to an end, I have started following and collecting some resources about other notation options. I will continue to update this page as I come across new resources. If you’re looking for something in particular, feel free to send me a message, and I will see what I can find for you.

Writing Conferences and Pages to Follow

  • Composer Symposium with Martin Creative Services—An annual conference for writers, usually held in June, with a wide variety of topics taught by various clinicians. There are also opportunities for lessons and masterclass participation. Follow Joseph Martin’s Fan Facebook Page and Website for updates.

  • Writing Worship with Krissy Nordhoff and Team—An annual writing worship conference and writing camp, usually held in early October. Follow their Facebook Page and Website for more information and resources.

  • Christian Music Mentor and Kingdom Music Academy—Online training, community, and periodic writing retreats for Christian writers and artists founded by Brad Guldemond. Learn more from the Website and Facebook Page.

  • Write About Jesus Workshop and Resources—An annual workshop held in October with the mission: “To equip and inspire the community of Christian songwriters.” Check the Website for workshop information and other resources.

Books

  • The Craft of Christian Songwriting by Robert Sterling—Website

  • Principles of Choral Arranging by Robert Sterling—Website

  • Writing Worship by Krissy Nordhoff and other songwriting resources—Website

  • Every Hallelujah: A Songwriters Journey Through the Psalms by Sue C. Smith—Amazon

  • Walking on Water: Reflections on Faith and Art by Madeline L’Engle—Amazon

  • The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron—Amazon

Music Notation Software Resources, including Facebook groups where you can ask questions

  • Scoring Notes—A must follow for the lastest news in music notation, honest reviews, tutorials, and more—Website

  • Helpful YouTube Channels—Dorico, Sibelius, MuseScore

  • A tutorial on mass-converting Finale files Music XML files to help you archive your Finale files—YouTube

  • A tutorial with 5 tips to get started with Dorico—YouTube

  • Dorico Course—This course has come highly recommended by several composer friends. I'll post my own review eventually! You can find it on Dr. Carlson’s website or Udemy’s website. Helpful tip: the course is cheaper on Dr. Carlson’s website unless Udemy is having a sale.

  • Learning Dorico for Finale Refugees—Facebook Group

  • DORICO—The Next-Generation Scoring Software—Facebook Group

  • How to migrate from Finale to Sibelius—Website

  • Avid Sibelius Users—Facebook Group

  • MuseScore Discussion and Support Group—Facebook Group