New Mainers

New Mainers is a documentary songwriting program based in Portland, Maine, developed in partnership with Immigrant Music Connection.

As Portland’s immigrant population continues to grow, the city is shaped by a wide range of cultures and musical traditions—from Somali Bantu rhythms and Congolese rumba to Middle Eastern musical forms. This program brings together immigrants and local teaching artists to create original songs based on personal stories.

Through collaborative songwriting sessions, participants share their experiences and work with musicians to shape them into lyrics, melody, and finished songs. The process is accessible to all, regardless of musical background, and is guided by each participant’s comfort and interests.

New Mainers creates space for people to tell their stories in their own words, especially in a context where immigrants are often spoken about rather than listened to. The songs that emerge from the program are shared through performances and recordings, offering audiences a chance to engage directly with the voices and perspectives of their neighbors.

By centering individual stories, the program builds connection across communities and contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the experiences shaping life in Portland today.