The first meeting of the Kerrville Songwriters Group gathered an eclectic group of music lovers, many songwriters and some fans to hear Bill Ward talk about his own writing. After a brief introduction he turned to the group, saying, "I see some guitars, and I know some songwriters are here. Let's pass the guitar around." I asked that each one tell a story then sing a song.

Sarah Mayor, founder of the group, not only has the perfect log cabin for this gathering, but she has a wonderful secluded spot on Elm Pass 2 road out of Center Point for a stage and outdoor event. Mayor moved to Kerrville after participating in the Austin Songwriters Group. "I see a need for this in the area, and I'm excited to be able to host the gathering in our new home." And what a gathering it was.

I met new songwriters, heard new songs and shared some stories with friends. Karen Abrahams drove down from Austin. Sharon Bousquet came from Wimberley and sang sensual songs. Frank Meyer, from Austin, delivered a quirky tribute to a "Ramlin' Mind," a song of his album "Scrounger's Paradise," an album of quirky songs.
Rod Kennedy was an honored guest, and I even got to tell my own story about writing. During the event, I let the songwriters know that my classroom at Schreiner University is always open to a presentation/workshop, and our coffeehouse always has an open mike. More opportunities for songwriters.

I chose to stay home this weekend, working on a book manuscript, while both Bill Ward (at a house concert) and Karen Abrahams (at Ox Bow Cantina) performed on Saturday night, November 23.

I did attend the Schreiner musical, "The Me Nobody Knows," and shed a few tears at the heartfelt performances of students and the poignant stories told on stage. Some new voices emerged into my consciousness. Oh, I knew Austin Owen, Patrick McCorkindale, Matt Willis and Ashley Kimball were great performers. But I discovered Erin Reason, Tina Austin, Taylor Brown, Tom D'Amore, April Carcia, Josh Kemp, Matt Eudy, Kamaria Woods Emily Houghton and Lauren Neuburger. What a team! Claudia Sullivan directed the show. "These are children's voices from the ghetto. In their stuggle lies their hope, and ours. They are the voices of change," reads the program. Inspiring.

Rita DeShields will host a drum circle at the Unity Church on the first Friday of December. I'll be there to experience the effects of that sound while I join in the drumming. We held a drum circle to begin the speak truth to power free speech movement at Schreiner on Wednesday, November 21. I think a reminder that the heartbeat of mother earth is a way of connecting with the world is an appropriate use of a drum circle.

Thursday, November 23, I drove to Casbeers at 1719 Blanco in San Antonio. I knew of this venue from all the excellent writers who play there. This was my first visit. Famous for enchiladas, the venue welcomed us with the smell of good food, walls covered with photos of musicians, Christmas lights adorning the skull of a longhorn and that "diner" atmosphere we so love in Texas. Owners, Steve and Barbara, are known for the way they take care of the musicians. Now I've experienced this venue, legendary with good Texas music.

I arrived early, 6:00 p.m., because I wanted to talk with Lisa Pankrast, a woman playing drums for the Billy Joe Shaver Tour. Much to my great joy, the band was setting up, and I just sat and listened to the sound check. Billy Joe's new album, "Freedom's Child," is another stunning collection of songs from the heart and life of this Texas treasure. I can see his beaming face even now as I write his name. Something has happened to him.

In one year he lost his mother, his wife, Brenda, and his son, Eddie. He also went into the hospital for serious heart surgery. The man I saw Sunday, at the Texas Book Festival, was beaming. The man I saw preaching the good news from the stage at Casbeers, was beaming. Something has happened to him.

Robert Duvall told me that the documentary film on Billy Joe includes a Pentecostal preaching moment. Oh, yeah, that Duvall name. I'm not dropping it for effect; Billy Joe did introduce me to him at the Texas Book Festival. I just contained my awe as I listened to his language of respect for Billy Joe Shaver. We all love Billy Joe.

I remember one rainy night at the Kerrville Folk Festival when a crowd stood out in the rain to hear him. He humbly asked why people were still there. Then, red in the face, he looked down, overcome by emotion. I saw that same humble response at Casbeers when the entire audience stood in applause for his last song.

We shared his life that night. That's the kind of art and music I love, the kind that invites you to share a distinct perspective of the world. Billy Joe seems courageous, singing "If at first you don't succeed, try, try again." He seems loving, singing "There's not end to what I'd do, just because you asked me to." My favorite love song.

Lisa has been playing drums since she was about twelve, coming from a family where Dad played drums. She also writes songs. Her stunning model-like beauty is seen by everyone but herself. She is focused on the beat, and she keeps it well. We'll talk again n December. She's having a great time with Billy Joe. "This is the first night of our Texas tour, then we're off to Nashville. I am thrilled to be playing the songs I've grown up listening to."

"Freedom's Child" is on a new label, Compadre, owned by a fan of Billy Joe's, Brad Turcott in Houston. The label is committed to great Americana music; the sampler includes songs by Shaver ("Good Ol' USA), Hayes Carll, Billy Ray Reynolds, Mike McClure/wSusan Gibson, Clay Blaker (a Kerrville favorite), Cooder Graw (rowdy and wonderful), and John Rich. Go to www.compadrerecords.com for information. The compilation says, "Defining Roots Music."

I'm off to the Jazz Festival in San Miguel de Allende for Thanksgiving, and the wedding ceremony of Kristen Gray, a dear friend. I'll be back with more stories of Mexico and music.

Free Leonard and down the road.

Email Kathleen:  kat@maverickbbs.com

Visit the THMF website:  www.texasheritagemusic.org

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