Writing Songs |
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Jan Bentley has
been writing original songs (music and lyrics) since she was about thirteen
years old. Over time, she has come to realise that her gift of writing songs
should be shared with others, and hopes her music can inspire, entertain,
teach and encourage. Its a challenge for her, and most importantly,
she enjoys it. Many of the songs she writes are personal and provide an
insight into her beliefs, thoughts and observations of life. Some songs
are simply for fun and celebration, because sometimes life can be too serious. Jans music style includes elements of contemporary folk, country, celtic, gospel and pop music. She doesnt like putting restrictions on her music; ultimately her music reflects her life and life is full of change. In 2016 Jan branched out and wrote her first ever 'bush poem', adding an new dimension to her creative writing and performance. |
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Awards |
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Songwriting awards Jan has received include 'Best Lyrics' & 'Runner
Up Best Lyrics' (Red Gum Festival 2000), 'Best Local Songwriter' and 'Best
Song: Community Participation' (Red Gum Festival 1999) and Runner
Up Best Gospel Song (Australian Gospel Songwriting Awards 2003). She
was a Top Ten finalist in the 1999 and 2003 Australian National Songwriting
Contests (1999 - Gospel category; 2003 - 5th place for 'I Wonder' - From
the Inside category). Jan was a Top Ten finalist in the Port Fairy Songwriting
Award in 2002 and 2004, and a Top Three finalist in the Port Fairy Songwriting
Award for 'Best Song of Tolerance, Peace and Understanding' in 2004. In 2007, Jan was a finalist in the 'Roddy Read Memorial Songwriting Award' as part of the Maldon Folk Festival. Two songs achieved recognition in the Professional Contemporary Section of the 2011 National Country Songwriting Contest, organised by the Tamworth Songwriters' Association: 'Just Passing Through' (finalist) and 'Country Hospitality' (semi-finalist). |
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Performances |
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Jan enjoys performing her songs to a variety of audiences. She has performed at the National Folk Festival, Maldon Folk Festival, Port Fairy Folk Festival, National Celtic Festival, Tamworth Country Music Festival, Mildura Country Music Festival, The Man From Snowy River Bush Festival, Ocean Grove Live Music Festival, Aireys Inlet Open Mic Music Festival, Bonnie Doon Music & Busker Festival, Black Stump Festival, Swan Hill Red Gum Festival, ABC radio (live on Derek Guille's programme), at a shopping centre, and at churches, pubs, weddings, schools and community events. She has performed in a couple of pubs in Ireland. | ||
Albums |
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Jans debut album, For I Am With You focuses on the
theme of journey. This album is a clear expression of her
faith and includes fourteen original songs. |
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) |
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1. What prompted Jan to write
songs and make albums? |
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Information for Music Festivals / Media |
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Jan Bentley - Biography (.pdf file) | ||
Page
last updated: 15/4/2016 |
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