Songwriting Workshop with Acclaimed Irish Songwriter John Spillane “At my song writing workshops we actually write songs. Having attended a few workshops where the participants play their songs to be criticised by experts who talk down to them, I was inspired to invent a novel approach, where we all sit down and write a finished song in one session. This teaches many lessons, including finishing things, which is often a big problem for writers. I create a space where all negativity, all criticism and judgment are locked outside.”

This masterclass with Meteor award winning songwriter John Spillane will get to the heart of song writing and storytelling. John will focus on helping participants lose whatever inhibitions and fears they may have about writing songs while also sharing tricks of the trade on verse, chorus, repetition and rhyme. Songwriters should be prepared to sing and embrace the joy of the process.

And Saturday 4 June after enjoying his workshop, go and listen to what promises to be an amazing concert at 8pm in St Caimin Church of Ireland

More info on the concert and booking here

John Spillane

John Spillane is a musician, songwriter, performer, recording artist, storyteller, poet and dreamer. Rooted in people, place and story, his music transports the listener and his live performances captivate audiences around the world.

As an artist his music appeals to listeners across many genres and generations. His vocal style has a unique almost sean-nós like quality and his performances shimmer with the magic realism that permeates many of his songs as he effortlessly flits between beautiful poetry tinged with melancholy to roguish, irreverent humour. John has the ability to charm, mesmerise and entertain in equal measure.

A native of Cork, the County he lovingly describes as “the centre of the universe” and a source of huge creative influence throughout his career. John’s music is inspired by and encapsulates Irish traditional music in its contemporary form – a reflection of Ireland today.

A two-time Meteor award winner for Best Folk/Trad act John is one of the most accomplished songwriters in Ireland. With an extensive back catalogue beginning with the 1997 album The Wells of the World, his songs have been covered by Christy Moore, Sharon Shannon, Sean Keane and many others. Twelve albums later, John is set to release his first independent album in 20 years, 100 Snow White Horses.

Recorded in London with Pauline Scanlon and produced by John Reynolds the album is inspired by John’s travels around Ireland. The decision to release the album independently allowed for a greater sense of creative freedom and these new songs are full of poetry, Irish mythology and wonder. 100 Snow White Horses will be released in April of 2021.

“ … glorious technicolour hues that transcend linguistic boundaries; world music for a new world.” Irish Times

“ … these tracks exhibit Spillane’s remarkably prolific output of gorgeous, peaceful tunes.” Hot Press

“John writes catchy, heartfelt folk-pop songs with the bonus of actually meaning something.” The Sunday Business Post