Coinciding with the concerts at Celtic Connections, another festival will be taking place. It is not meant to compete with Celtic Connections, but rather to complement it. "Now in its second year, Glasgow Festival of Sognwriting aims to provide a showcase for, and to celebrate the art of songwriting,’ says festival organizer Jim King. "We try to compliment Celtic Connections and offer a cozy, club atmosphere."
Concerts:
(Admission £7/£5 conc.)
Friday
18th Jan 8:00PM
The Songs and Protests of the Wobblies
The Catskinners and friends recall some of the best social commentary songs of the 20th century. Mixed in with a little history of the I.W.W
Friday
25th Jan 8:00PM
Matt McGinn: A Man of Notes
After the fantastic concerts at last year’s festival it was demanded that we again have a night celebrating the work of the brilliant Matt McGinn. REAWAKENING return with more songs and recollections of the life of one of Glasgow’s finest songsmiths. Not to be missed
Friday
1st Feb 8:00PM
Tom Paxton Couldn’t Come…
But you can still join in with the choruses.
Thirty-odd years ago Tom Paxton taught a generation of traditional folksingers that it was noble to write your own songs. Eilidh Grant, Joe McTamney, Jim McKenna, Eric Grant & Pauline Vallance, a brilliant line-up, present Tom’s songs, some of the greatest ever written. Book early for this one!
Saturday
19th Jan 8:00 PM
Christine Bovill
Sings ‘Piaf’
The tragic, non-stop merry-go-round that was Edith Piaf’s life was punctuated by the most glorious music. Christine Bovill brings you the songs that tingle down your spine, sung with passion, respect and true artistry. The multi-talented Ms. Bovill at her absolute best.
Saturday
26th Jan 8:00 PM
Mister Mark Rafferty
One Man and His Wit
With that rare ability to be witty, literate and lyrical, Mister Mark is wonderfully entertaining whether singing his own or other peoples songs. With support from another brilliant songwriter making a name for himself, Alexander Murray.
Saturday
2nd Feb 8:00PM
Christine Bovill
A Lady Sings the Blues
The stunning vocalist stars with her brilliant one-woman show celebrating the unique talent of Billie Holiday
Sunday
20th Jan 8:00 PM
The Songs of Ian Davison
Some of his greatest fan s give their interpretations of this iconic writer’s half-century of work.
With Paul Alger, Ray Allan, Jules Taylor, Vivien Scotson and Ronnie Collins
Sunday
27th Jan 8:00PM
Thank You Mr Zimmerman
This tribute concert rejoices in the many facets of Bob Dylan’s artistry. Another Songwright first, featuring a terrific lineup – Dave Gibb, Peter Nardini, Christine Bovill, Tom Clelland and George Boyd.
Sunday
3rd Feb 8:00PM
Emmylou, We Love You
A truly astonishing range of song has been branded by the legend that is Emmylou Harris.
This show picks out her absolute best to create a superb concert, presented by talented performer – Susan McCamley, Eilidh Grant, Christine Bovill and Tom Clelland.
The festival also includes sessions, open mic opportunities and a songwriter masterclass. Admission to the sessions is free.
Sessions
Wednesdays from 8PM
16th Jan; 23rd Jan; 30th Jan
Open Mic Nights
Thursdays 8PM
17th Jan; 24th Jan; 31st Jan
If you fancy taking a turn, be there by 7:30. Admission is free.
Masterclass
Saturday 26th Jan 2-4PM. Admission is free.
Led by Mark Rafferty and Jim King
The program is available at www.glasgowfestivalofsongwriting.co.uk
Performances will be geld at Buchanan Hotel, Buchanan Street, Glasgow (right by the Buchanan Street subway)
For tickets sales and any other information, contact Songwright@hotmail.co.uk.
Photo: Matt McGuinn
Author: World Music Central News Room
World music news from the editors at World Music Central
