Dubai-based professor in global songwriting contest semis

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Dubai-based professor in global songwriting contest semis
Franziska Apprich

Dubai - Dr Apprich describes the style of her entry in this year's competition as 'Norah Jones meets Sarah McLachlan' and says that the inspiration behind it is a valuable lesson for us all.

By Staff Reporter

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Published: Sun 3 Apr 2016, 12:00 AM

Last updated: Mon 4 Apr 2016, 8:20 AM

A song written by Dubai-based songwriter Franziska Apprich has reached the semifinals of the International Songwriting Competition, an annual contest judged by some of the world's most eminent professional musicians.
Dr Apprich, an Assistant Professor in the Canadian University Dubai's School of Media and Communication Studies, is already an award-winning filmmaker, musician and writer. Her latest composition, 'As much as I want you', is shortlisted by a panel that includes modern music sensations such as Lorde, alongside legends of the industry like Tom Waits.
The annual International Songwriting Competition was established to provide an opportunity for both aspiring and established songwriters to have their songs heard in a professional, international arena. It is recognised as having the most prestigious panel of judges of all the world's songwriting and music contests, offering exposure to some of most influential decision-makers in the industry.
Dr Apprich describes the style of her entry in this year's competition as 'Norah Jones meets Sarah McLachlan' and says that the inspiration behind it is a valuable lesson for us all.
She revealed: "The song is about making mistakes, struggling with life, but still believing in the good and love of people. We all are lost at some point in our lives and it is important to find our own unique and successful path. Yes, we make mistakes... Yes, we can carry on... Yes, we should forgive and yes, we should find love at the end. I think it is wonderful when people learn from their mistakes; that is what makes us human."
Speaking about her nomination for the semifinals, Dr Apprich said: "I am proud to be selected in such a prestigious competition that celebrates the best songwriters/creative talent in the world. A lot of the participants have collaborated with or opened for super-stars such as Taylor Swift, among others.
"More so, to be recognised by judges of such musical stature is an honour. I love Tom Waits for his non-conforming style and Lorde is an amazing, unique, inspirational singer/songwriter who has brought avant-garde and commercial together."
Dr Apprich, who penned a song for Etienne Cousineau, star of Canada's talent show La Voix, will now go up against an international field of both professional and amateur songwriters in the final stages.
reporters@khaleejtimes.com


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