KING Summer Songwriting Workshop
By KING Senior Program Manager, Dave Bishea.
At KING Mentoring, we believe that consistent, creative mentorship can transform lives. We match Central Texas youth who have experience with Child Protective Services with dedicated volunteer music mentors who provide weekly one-on-one lessons and long-term support. We are currently in need of new volunteer music mentors to be matched with youth who are waiting for the chance to begin their own musical journey.
On July 13th, eight KING youth took part in an in-depth Songwriting Workshop at King Electric Recording Co., where they collaborated with professional musicians, explored songwriting techniques, and recorded original songs in a professional studio—many for the first time.
We were honored to welcome five incredible guest instructors—Mélat, Sisi Berry, Monica Valli, Cole Savoy, and Matt Kreutz—who provided highly personalized guidance as the youth developed their ideas, lyrics, and melodies. With the expert support of King Electric’s house engineer, Norrie Swofford, mentees recorded demo versions of their original songs, gaining firsthand experience with the recording process in a supportive and creative environment.
Following the event, one KING parent shared:
"The boys LOVED the event today! It was so awesome to listen to them explain how they collaborated together to create a song. This kind of teamwork is something we definitely needed at this point in time, and the boys were so happy with what they accomplished."
This event was made possible through the long-standing and generous partnership between KING Mentoring and King Electric Recording Co. For years, King Electric has supported our program by opening their studio doors to KING youth, offering access to professional recording sessions at no cost. It’s a truly special opportunity—one that allows young musicians to experience the excitement and possibility of creating in a real studio environment.
Their support also extends to the dedicated volunteers who make our program possible. KING mentors receive 50% off personal studio bookings at King Electric, and those who reach their one-year anniversary are eligible for an entire free day of studio time. It’s a powerful way to celebrate the time, talent, and care our mentors bring to their mentees—and to support their own growth as musicians.
Through weekly private lessons, recitals, and events like this workshop, KING youth build confidence, strengthen their identity, and discover the power of music to express and heal.
We are currently seeking volunteer music mentors in communities including Hutto, Austin, Georgetown, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Jarrell, Belton, Elgin, Killeen, Dripping Springs, and surrounding areas. You don't need to be a professional musician—just someone who's reliable, encouraging, and ready to build a trusting relationship through music.
To learn more or apply, please visit kidsinanewgroove.org.