Concerts & Events

The Working Songwriter Forum is a 3-day experience packed with concerts, workshops, discussions, writing and more! Spend June 5-7 weekend with the host and creator of The Working Songwriter podcast, Joe Pug, along with his talented friends, John Moreland. David Ramirez, Rachel Baiman, and Old Town School instructor Jonas Friddle, immersing yourself in a musical weekend dedicated to the craft of songwriting.

The main event is an intensive songwriting workshop schedule taught by some of Old Town School's veteran teaching artists alongside our special guest hosts. John Moreland is one of the most critically-acclaimed songwriters in Americana today and her shared the stage with some of the genre's greats and prestigious festivals. Similarly, David Ramirez is a prolific writer once named Songwriter of the Year by The Austin Chronicle. Chicago-bred Rachel Baiman joins as well bringing her blend of bluegrass and old-time to the event. Lastly, returning from the inaugural The Working Songwriter Forum Old Town School teaching artist Jonas Friddle won the John Lennon Songwriting Award, as well as many other accolades, and performs with his indie-folk supergroup, The Majority.

These workshops will give attendees the opportunity to showcase their newly-written tunes and to participate in other special performances as well as ample time to write and collaborate. Throughout the entire event, Joe Pug will be your roving host - troubleshooting song lyrics with you, helping you tackle the bridge, or joining you in on a chorus. He will be there to aid and abet you, to connect you with your teachers and fellow songwriters, to hang out and talk shop, and maybe even have a beer. Whether you're a grizzled veteran or a scrappy upstart, songwriters of all experience levels are encouraged to attend!

Each day of The Working Songwriter Forum will culminate in an evening concert with one of your out-of-town hosts - Joe Pug, John Moreland, David Ramirez, and Rachel Baiman.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will all artists be teaching?
In addition to featured artist performances, some artists will hold workshops and other activities. More details will be available in the spring when the full schedule is released. Throughout the entire event, Joe Pug will be your host- troubleshooting song lyrics, connecting you with the teachers and other attendees, or just having a beer and talking shop.

What is the schedule of events?
Full schedule t.b.d.

Can I purchase tickets just to the concerts?
Yes, concert-only tickets are available to some shows, but the only way to guarantee seating for all performances throughout the weekend is a three-day ticket.

Will there be food or beverages available?
Old Town School sells light snacks, sweets, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages but there will be ample time for trying some of the local cuisine.

Do I need to bring a guitar?
There will be some instruments to share but if you have one that you feel most comfortable with, we recommend bringing it.

What's the best way to get there? Where can I stay?
The Working Songwriter Forum is at Old Town School of Folk Music's Lincoln Square campus on Chicago's northside, just 9 miles north of downtown at 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL 60625. Lodging is available at any of Chicago's great hotels and Airbnb's.

Old Town School is located just 4 blocks from "The L" Brown Line - Western stop. Public parking is available throughout the neighborhood.

Many guests to Old Town School opt to stay in the surrounding neighborhoods and make a longer trip to explore all Chicago has to offer. Search for these neighborhoods to be in walking distance to Old Town School: Lincoln Square, North Center, Ravenswood, St. Ben's. Surrounding neighborhoods with access to public transportation or short rides to Lincoln Square: Andersonville, Roscoe Village, Lakeview, Albany Park, Budlong Woods, North Park, Wrigleyville.

I would like to sponsor or cover the event. Who can I contact?
Any press, media, or sponsorship inquiries, please email afang@newfrontiertouring.com