What is a Nashville-style Writers Round?+
A Writers Round, made famous at Nashville’s Bluebird Café, places three acoustic musicians on stage simultaneously. Rather than separate sets, each songwriter takes turns performing one original song at a time in a circular, conversational format — intimate, vulnerable, and full of story.
What is the difference between the two venues?+
Hoptinger offers a late-night, open-air rooftop experience with craft cocktails and beer — electric and social. Bold Bean offers a sunlit, intimate afternoon session in a world-class coffee bar — warm and focused. Both follow the same Nashville Writers Round format with three artists sharing the stage simultaneously.
Can I perform at both venues?+
Yes. You can apply for both venues in the same application. Simply select “Both Venues” in the venue preference dropdown. NSAI members receive priority scheduling at both locations. Non-members may attend up to 2 rounds total across both venues before membership is required.
Does it have to be country music?+
Absolutely not. Both venues welcome all genres — pop, R&B, folk, rock, gospel, soul, indie, Americana, and everything in between. Your original music belongs here.
Do I need to be an NSAI member to perform?+
Not initially. Non-members may attend and perform at up to 2 Writers Rounds total across either venue. After 2 performances, NSAI membership is required to continue. Active NSAI members are always scheduled first at both locations.
How many songs will I perform?+
Each performer plays 1–3 original songs per turn depending on the crowd and energy of the evening. Tracy guides the pacing at both venues to ensure every songwriter gets meaningful stage time.
Is Bold Bean alcohol-free?+
Yes. Bold Bean Coffee Roasters is a coffee venue — alcohol is not served. This makes it an especially welcoming option for performers and audience members of all ages, including younger songwriters. Hoptinger serves a full bar and 60+ craft taps.
What instruments are permitted?+
Acoustic guitar and keyboard/piano only at both venues. Backing tracks and drum kits are not permitted. Singers who don’t play an instrument may bring one accompanying acoustic musician — please indicate this in your application.
Is there an age minimum?+
None at all. Both venues welcome singer-songwriters of every age and every level of experience. Bold Bean in particular is a great entry point for younger songwriters given its daytime, alcohol-free setting.
Can I attend as an audience member?+
Absolutely — audience attendance at both venues is always open, no membership required. Hoptinger at 1037 Park St and Bold Bean at 869 Stockton St are both in Jacksonville’s Riverside neighborhood, just a short distance from each other.
How will I know if I have a confirmed spot?+
Tracy Russell personally contacts each applicant via email or phone to confirm. Once confirmed, your name appears on the monthly roster for your chosen venue(s) on the calendar page above.
Who do I contact with more questions?+
Reach out to Tracy Russell, NSAI Jacksonville Chapter Coordinator, at jacksonvillefl@nsaichapters.com. Tracy is happy to answer any questions about either venue, the Writers Round format, membership, or the application process.
