2025 Workshops
Ultan Conlon
Inspiration in Every Word
Whether you're picking up a pen for the first time or refining your next masterpiece, this workshop is your space to explore the art and craft of songwriting. Here, you'll not only learn practical techniques to shape your ideas into lyrics and melody—you’ll also experience the powerful creative release that writing can bring.
Through group writing and shared creativity, you'll become part of a vibrant and supportive community. The collaborative spirit of this workshop encourages confidence, expression, and connection—fuelling your inspiration and unlocking your voice as a songwriter.
1st Workshop session: 10.30am
2nd (repeat) Workshop Session: 12.30pm
Suzanne Savage
Kindling the Spark
As a songwriter, we can bring anything into a song. Mind you, less is more - but when do you put down the pruning shears? What if you just get stuck between the lines? Well, it may help to remember - not all songs are built the same: some don’t even have words..and sometimes, the words don’t even make sense..(tutti frutti, anyone?) In fact: many great songwriters threw out the rulebook altogether. Inspiration can sometimes come from something sidewards, or from taking a new approach. This is a fun workshop exploring where your ideas can take you, using improvisation and other musical tools - to help spark your imagination and fan the flames. All you need is an open mind (and a pen and paper).
1st Workshop session: 10.30am
2nd (repeat) Workshop Session: 12.30pm
SJ McArdle
Keep On Keeping On
A workshop about realising your value as a songwriter and recognising the worth in your work, because all songwriters suffer from a lack of confidence sometimes! This workshop is about building resilience and gaining belief in your songwriting.
1st Workshop session: 10.30am
2nd (repeat) Workshop Session: 12.30pm
Keith Burke
Dynamic & Interactive Songwriting
Drawing inspiration from the world of improvisational comedy, the session will invite participants to contribute ideas and themes, which they then transform into original songs. Whether you prefer working in a group or individually, you'll be guided through the creative process in a fun, supportive environment. Instruments are welcome but not required. Bringing your imagination is essential.
1st Workshop session: 10.30am
2nd (repeat) Workshop Session: 12.30pm
Gillian Tuite
The Magic of Co-writing: Joining Forces to Enhance Your Creativity
Co-writing can be an enjoyable and productive way to break out of your comfort zone and bring out the best in your songwriting. Whether you’re collaborating virtually or in person, this workshop aims to build your confidence in working with other writers. Together we will navigate the process from choosing your co-writing partner to finalising your project, and through interactive exercises, help you discover how much you can bring to the table.
1st Workshop session: 10.30am
2nd (repeat) Workshop Session: 12.30pm
Key Speakers: HamsandwicH
(Q&A session & performance)
One of the most enthralling live acts in recent times, HamsandwicH are well known for their incendiary live performances which has put them right at the top of the live acts to see today. With the combination of Niamh Farrell's powerful yet sweet vocal and Podge McNamee's juxstaposing baritone the band are given it's signature calling card. If ever there was a band to feed off their audience it is HamsandwicH. Each show is bona fide celebration with everything from balloons and confetti to their unique crowd interaction on display.
7.30pm - 9pm