lifesongs project
Palaver musicians partner with LGBTQ+ community members to write and record original songs. Participants work with professional musicians and sound engineers and perform their songs live.
Seasonal cohort · April + June 2027 · Portland, ME
As heard in.
about this project
Lifesongs Project celebrates the LGBTQ+ community through original music and storytelling. Participants work with a professional songwriter and recording engineer to create a song about their life — an act of courage, connection, and record-keeping at a moment when those things matter.
The project was conceived by Palaver cellist Matthew Smith and brought to Portland in 2021. Local partners Planned Parenthood of Northern New England and MaineTransNet connect participants and support each cohort.
in their words
“Songwriting is simply the tool that unlocks these stories. To sit in the room as words are spun into lyrics and sounds are made into melodies is magical. But the most beautiful thing to witness is the connection and trust that is made in these moments.”
— Matthew Smith, Palaver Cellist
“Lifesongs Project has been one of the most restorative moments I think any of us have had in the last year and a half. So many times I heard the words "affirming," "safe," "seen," uttered with smiles and understanding eyes.”
— Sam Spadafore, Artist
listen to past songs
Original songs from Lifesongs cohorts — in participants' own words.
about the program
Open to
LGBTQ+ adults of any age · Portland, ME
When
April + June 2027
How to participate
Contact us to express interest
join the next cohort
Lifesongs Project returns in June 2027. To express interest in participating, reach out to our team. Spots are limited — contact us early.
