ASCAP plans song confab

Songwriting, composing conference starts April 20

By PHIL GALLO

ASCAP is planning a national conference dedicated to songwriting and composing that will run at the Hollywood Renaissance Hotel April 20-22.

Scheduled to participate in the expo, believed to be the first of its kind, are Glen Ballard, Desmond Child, Hal David, Jimmy Jam, Jimmy Webb, Paul Williams and Johnny Mandel.

From the film-TV-legit world are Bruce Broughton ("Silverado," "Warm Springs"), Michael Giacchino ("Lost," "The Incredibles"), James Newton Howard ("Batman Begins") and Stephen Schwartz ("Wicked"). ASCAP prexy-chair Marilyn Bergman will also participate.

Programs will include panels, workshops, master classes, keynotes, mentoring, song critiquing, product displays, technology demonstrations and performances.