October 28, 2011 -- Orange Beach, AL, (OBA) -- Whether it is enjoying meeting and listening to the music of hit songwriters or up-and-coming songwriters, you will have the opportunity to forge live musical memories that will last a lifetime at the 27^th Annual Frank Brown Songwriters Festival November 10 – 20, 2011.

The Flora-Bama is the presenting sponsor of the 2011 Festival.  The event is dedicated to the late Frank Brown, the 28-year Flora-Bama night watchman who retired in his 90’s after a long association with the musicians and patrons that have made this world renown roadhouse a launching pad for aspiring writers and performers.

The festival began in 1984 and over time it has grown into a major 11-day musical showcase bringing visitors and songwriters from around the world to be a part of the festivities.  The festival features some of the best-known writers of the last half century performing alongside the stars of tomorrow at more than 20 different locations including Silverhill, Bon Secour, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach in Alabama and across the border into Florida with venues in Perdido Key and Pensacola.  The performances are much more intimate than the usual concert scenario.  The venues are typically small, allowing the artists to connect with the audience in words and songs in a way that isn’t possible in a large concert hall or amphitheater. 

Most performances include two to four writers sharing the stage singing songs and sharing the stories behind the writing.  It is a unique experience to hear the song brought to life by the original author, often imparting a different feel than the more widely known versions that have made it as hits.   Hundreds of songwriters apply to perform at the festival each year. 

One former writer/artist/ attendee had this to say about FBISF:

“The Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival is the one repose for serious Songwriters…it continues to inspire me in my own songwriting efforts… Whether accepted as a scheduled performer or not, you will get plenty of opportunity, if you attend, to network and co-write under the most inspiring of atmospheres available in a shrinking world of songwriter venues…” 

Visiting writers can take part in a songwriting seminar, hosted by Nashville Songwriters Association International on Saturday, Nov. 19 and a songwriter showcase for youth will be held at Lulu’s Homeport on Nov. 18.  Other special events during the fest include a celebrity golf tournament and special tributes to writers who have passed away. Check the website www.fbisf.com for this year’s locations and lineup of talent (more writers are being added daily).  The full schedule will be posted approximately two weeks prior to the event. 

Also, there will be an “Open Mic” for everyone to participate each afternoon at the Silver Moon, except for Saturday, Nov. 19 when the songwriting seminar is being held. For up to date information visit the website: www.fbisf.com or “friend” the Frank Brown Songwriter’s Festival on Facebook.