About BSA

Where do we meet?

The Patterson Arts Center, Home of The Creative Alliance

3134 Eastern Avenue

Located in East Baltimore, near Fells Point and Patterson Park

When do we meet?

On the 2nd and 4th Monday of every month at 7:30pm

Do I have to be a member to attend?

No, our meetings are free and open to the public, but you have to be a member to present a song.

Read more: Frequently Asked Questions

By Paul Iwancio and Jane Wellington-Beatty

On giving criticism:

1. Ask questions about something before you comment on the work. For example,"I have a question about this phrase here, what were you looking for in this image...".
2. Listen to the writer's response before you offer suggestions.
3. Do offer suggestions instead of just saying "it doesn't work".
4. NEVER slam or destroy a song. Every song is a risk and should be treated with respect.
5. Find something positive to say either in the lyric, music or the performance of the song. Everyone is at a different place and needs to be supported. If people don't feel comfortable or supported enough to share their work, they will stop coming.
6. If you like, you can WRITE comments and/or changes on the distributed lyric/score sheets. However if you choose to do this, please write your NAME alongside your comments so the author can followup with you if they desire. Written comments are also useful when we run out of time for a critique.

Read more: Guidelines for Song Circle Participation