8th Belfast Nashville Songwriters Festival 2012

TICKETS - www.belfastnashville.com or Belfast Welcome Centre, 47 Donegall Place 028 9024 6609

22nd-26th FEBRUARY 2012WWW.BELFASTNASHVILLE.COM

A - Z SongwritersBill Anderson (USA), Iain ArcherClint Black (USA), Bob Dipiero (USA)Gareth Dunlop, Nanci Griffith (USA)Bap Kennedy, Nick Lowe, John Oates (Hall & Oates), Collin Raye , Fionn Regan, Todd Snider and many more...

WWW.AVALONGUITARS.COM

8th Belfast Nashville Songwriters® Festival & Song Writing Convention

Belfast Nashville Songwriters® the art of song writing™ Belfast Nashville Songwriters® the art of song writing™

TICKETS - www.belfastnashville.com or Ticket Master@Easons, Donegall Place 028 9032 3744TICKETS - www.belfastnashville.com or Belfast Welcome Centre, 47 Donegall Place 028 9024 6609

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CONTENTS

Wednesday 22nd .......PG 4

Thursday 23rd .......... PG 7

Friday 24th ................PG 11

Saturday 25th .........PG 23

Sunday 26th ............PG 36

5 DAYS, 100+ SONGWRITERS 43 CONCERTS 15 WORKSHOPS

2012 is a special year for us. Its twenty years since Panarts was formed to encourage respect for diversity through the arts and to organise cultural exchanges between musicians. In recent years we delivered our inter-community programme LEARN ABOUT US in several primary schools across Belfast. Other projects include MUSICAL FRONTIERSMEN...Songs & Stories of Emigration, SMALLWORLD (a celebration of different cultural traditions) and ROOTS & RHYTHMS (Exploring diversity through traditional dance and song).

Through the Panarts Belfast Nashville Songwriters Festival, we link talented local writers with award winning international artists. Now in our eighth year and with support from Panarts volunteers, our sponsors and main funder, the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, the songwriter’s festival is firmly established on the local music calendar. Each year we bring the Belfast Nashville Songwriters Showcase over to Nashville Tennessee. It’s our opportunity to find new songwriters who are willing to share their skills and it’s a chance to showcase in Music City Nashville. We hope you’ll join us in supporting live music by coming out to the free showcase events and the great music concerts.

Colin Magee, Panarts Director & Anne Coulter, Festival Manager

“Put on a Bill Monroe record, close your eyes, and you can feel yourself being transported back to an earlier time in Ireland and Scotland. Those folks dug the wells from which our music sprang.”

Nashville Hit writer Bill Anderson‘Nick Lowe’s music remains defiantly clever, intricate and seaworthy’ Rolling Stone MagazineMusic legend Nick Lowe, with his band, kicks off this year’s 8th Belfast Nashville Songwriters’ Festival and graces the Empire Stage for one night only. In his vast repertoire are all kinds of sounds, from rock to country to soul to pop. The musician has been performing for 40 years, but is as fresh today as the first time he stepped on stage. He is best known for his songs Cruel to Be Kind , I Love the Sound of Breaking Glass, and (What’s So Funny ‘Bout) Peace, Love, and Understanding”, a hit for Elvis Costello.

In 2012 he released ‘The Old Magic’, a fabulous collection of great songs. nicklowe.com Ralph McLean is BBC Northern Ireland’s main man for music. A radio and television presenter, producer and writer he’s been a winner at the last 4 Irish Radio Awards and remains a passionate supporter of great music both local and international. Listen to his radio show Tuesday to Friday from 8 to 10pm at www.bbc.co.uk/radioulsterEmpire Music Hall

Doors 8pm - Show 9pmStrictly 18+ Part Seated & Standing

Photo by Dan Burn-Forti

THURSDAY 16TH FEBRUARYSPECIAL OPENING CONCERT NICK LOWE & BAND IN CONCERT SPECIAL GUEST GERAINT WATKINS MC RALPH MCLEAN

Ralph McLean



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One half of music’s best selling duo of the all-time, John Oates (of Hall & Oates). With over 60 million albums sold, Hall & Oates rich repertoire has garnered a total of 8 #1 singles along with dozens of hits throughout the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, including “Rich Girl,” “Maneater,” “Private Eyes,” “I Can’t Go For That (No Can Do), and “She’s Gone.” As a solo artist John Oates has released 3 CD’s the latest, the soulful ‘Mississippi Mile’, his long-awaited

Americana album, a musical autobiography of classic songs that inspired him. On stage, at the festival, John will be joined by Michael Jude on bass John Michel on drums.

johnoates.com Empire Music Hall

Doors 8pm - Show 9pmStrictly 18+ One Third Seated

Belfast Metropolitan College have their 1st songwriters showcase at this year’s festival featuring some of the best songwriting talent from the college. Don’t miss this chance to

see how creative and talented the young songwriters of Belfast are. Black Box Café Doors 8pm - £3 Pay at Door

Wednesday to Saturday at the songwriter’s festival, we’ve organised an acoustic song session during the Cocktail Happy Hour at Madisons Hotel. No PA just play. Come along with your guitar and join the circle (or just

listen in). Tonights informal session is led by Canadian songwriter Garry Jackson.

Madisons Hotel, Botanic Avenue

Doors 6pm – 8pm

“Mick Flannery is a singing and songwriting force to be reckoned with.” Siobhán Long, Irish Times

Cork songsmith Mick Flannery’s debut album ‘Evening Train’ featured tracks which had won him two awards in the Nashville International Song Writing Competition, judged by his idol Tom Waits. He was the first Irish musician to win in this event. ‘White Lies’, his second release in 2008, was nominated for the Choice

Music Prize and later went platinum. In 2009 he also won Best Irish Male at the Meteor Awards. Don’t miss out on this artist, he is one of the best live acts you could hope to see and his raw, powerful voice is not easily matched.

mickflannery.comBlack Box

Doors 8pm Show 8.45pm18+ part seated & standing

WEDNESDAY 22ND FEBRUARYJOHN OATES TRIO

IN CONCERT Support Thom Southern

Photo Michael Allen Ross

WEDNESDAY 22ND FEBRUARYMICK FLANNERY IN

CONCERT Support Ross Alexander

WEDNESDAY 22ND FEBRUARYDAN DONNELLY IN CONCERT

Support Stuart Agnew

WEDNESDAY 22ND FEBRUARYBELFAST MET SONGWRITERS

WEDNESDAY 22ND FEBRUARYACOUSTIC SONG SESSION

“Dan is a prolific singer songwriter with a style reminiscent of a young David Bowie. It’s hardly surprising that the response has been a good one.” Daily IrelandIf there ever was an artist that embodied the term Troubadour it’s Dan Donnelly. He has been travelling and touring since the nineties performing world-wide. Growing up in Belfast, Dan played in a number of local bands, finding success with folk-rock band ‘Watercress.’ Their 1998 album, Bummer, included the song ‘Candlemaker’, penned by Dan, which reached No.1 in the Irish Charts. As a solo artist he has released four albums the latest Country & Northern. His recording and touring band ‘Sonovagun’ features Ali McMordie of Stiff Little Fingers on bass guitar and television composer Roy Harteron keyboards. sonovagun.comMadisons Hotel Cellar Doors 8pm Show 8.45pmPart Seated & Standing 18+



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PRS foR muSic AfteRShow club Free entry to PRS for Music members and everyone who has bought a

festival or Convention ticket. Please bring proof of membership or your Belnash festival ticket for entry.

DAN DoNNellY RoSS AleXANDeR Wednesday 22nd February,

11pm, Madisons Hotel Cellar

www.prsformusic.comFollow Us on Facebook, Twitter & MySpace

THURSDAY 23RD FEBRUARYBAP KENNEDY & BAND IN CONCERT Support Errol Walsh

WEDNESDAY 22ND FEBRUARYROBYN G. SHIELS, VERSECHORUSVERSE, JOHN MCGURGAN, BEST BOY GRIP, MICHAEL HANNAWAY, CALVERO

WEDNESDAY 22ND FEBRUARYTHE LAGAN SESSIONS

DAVID MCCANN, STEVE AMOS, LAZY FLIES, GAVIN MEE, JONNY NIXON, LAKE MONTGOMERY

THURSDAY 23RD FEBRUARYGORDON GILTRAP & WOODY MANN

IN CONCERT Support Dana Cooper

‘Irish singer-songwriter delivers his masterpiece. Bap Kennedy has the ability to take the merest thread of a story and spin it into a tale of such epic proportions it leaves the listener dumbfounded’No Depression, 5*Review of ‘Sailors Revenge’

From Belfast, Bap Kennedy is a songwriter and producer. After releasing five successful solo studio albums Bap, in 2012, teamed up with Mark Knopler (Dire Straits) to produce his new release ’The Sailor’s Revenge.’ Knopfler’s distinctive guitar style can be

heard on the album on which he also sings backing vocals. In the past Bap has also worked with other musical legends including Steve Earl and Van Morrison. Joining Bap on guitar and vocals is Brenda Kennedy, whose 2009 album ‘Banish the Blue Days’ received widespread airplay throughout Ireland.

bapkennedy.comEmpire Music Hall, Botanic Avenue

Doors 9pm Showtime 9.45pmStrictly 18+ Part Seated & Standing

Support live music!! Watch out for more great nights at Lavery’s; see facebook.com/laverysopenmic

Lavery’s Back Bar

Doors 10pmSupported by Lavery’s Bar, Belnash Fest, Jack Daniel’s JD Set, Guitar Centre Bradbury Place

The Lagan Sessions was started by two frustrated songwriters who wanted somewhere less noisy for people to play and hear acoustic music. Every Sunday at 8 in the Pavilion Bar, some of the best acoustic acts in the country play to

an attentive audience. Check out facebook.com/lagansessions for more gigs from this excellent live music club!!

Pavilion Bar, Ormeau Road

Doors 8pm Show 8:30pm

Woody Mann is a superlative player/singer/songwriter of American Roots Music. He’s an outstanding performer who plays with passion and a deep sensitivity to his music. Warm, witty and hugely talented, his music is an enticing mix of blues, roots and jazz. He’s written film scores and as a top class guitar tutor taught Paul Simon to play guitar!! At this year’s festival Gordon Giltrap joins Woody on stage, a rare chance to see and hear

these two superb performers together. Gordon is a composer, acoustic and electric guitarist, whose musical styles cross multiple genres – folk, blues, pop, classical and rock.

woodymann.com giltrap.co.ukMadisons Hotel Cellar, Botanic Avenue

Doors 8pm Show 8.45pmStrictly 18+ Part Seated & Standing



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Mark Nevin Back in 1989 Mark Nevin began his illustrious songwriting career as the writer and guitarist with his band ‘Fairground Attraction.’ Together they won two Brit Awards: for the Number-One hit ‘Perfect’ and for best album. He created ‘Sweetmouth’ with Brian Kennedy and with Morrissey co-wrote the album, ‘Kill Uncle’ which had four hit singles.

He has collaborated with Paul Brady, Lloyd Cole and Carole King and his songs have been covered by David Bowie, Joe Cocker, Curtis Stigers and Eddi Reader. In 2012, he released his third solo album: ‘Stand Beside Me in the Sun ‘ marknevin.com The Kennedys ‘this creative duo has carved their own unique niche in the musical landscape. ... Always on the cutting

edge, always pushing forward, the Kennedys have gathered no moss in their years on the road.” Mark Bialczak, The Post Standard

Since 1994 The Kennedys have been thrilling audiences with their exuberant mixture of folk-rock, country, pop and captivating live performances. Maura has a spellbinding voice and with Pete they produce great harmonises and have crafted beautiful songs that deal with freedom, dreams, and the open road. Both were members of Nanci Griffith’s Blue Moon Orchestra and in 2011 co-produced Nanci’s latest album ‘Intersections’. Between them they have recorded over a dozen CDs. kennedysmusic.com

Black Box, Hill Street Belfast

Doors open 8pm, show 8.45pm

THURSDAY 23RD FEBRUARYMARK NEVIN IN CONCERT/

THE KENNEDY’S IN CONCERTMARK NEVIN

THE KENNEDY’S

THURSDAY 23RD FEBRUARY

ACOUSTIC SONG SESSION 6PM-8PM @MADISONS

THURSday 23Rd FEBRUaRy

PRS foR muSic AfteRShow club fRee eNtRY to PRS foR muSic membeRS AND eveRYoNe who hAS bought A feStivAl oR coNveNtioN ticket. PleASe bRiNg PRoof of membeRShiP oR YouR belNASh feStivAl ticket foR eNtRY.

liNe uP: chRiSY mccullAgh, coRNcRAkeS11pm, Madisons Hotel Cellar

follow uS oN fAcebook, twitteR AND mYSPAcePRSfoRmuSic.com

THURSDAY 23RD FEBRUARY

PANARTS SONGWRITER’S SHOWCASE

It’s the second acoustic song session held during the Cocktail Happy Hour at Madisons Hotel. No PA just play. Come along with your guitar and join the circle (or just listen in). Tonights informal session is led by Dan Donnelly & Tony Garcia (USA).


Doors 6pm – 8pm

Joan McEldowney, Garry Jackson (CAN), Sal Hanvey, Steve Dan Mills (USA), Madeleine Slate (CAN)

John Hewitt Bar

Donegall Street Belfast

Showtime 7.30pm



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JOHN OATES IAIN ARCHER GARETH DUNLOP

THURSDAY 23RD FEBRUARYJOHN OATES, IAIN ARCHER, GARETH DUNLOP ‘IN THE ROUND’ CONCERT Support Stephen Maguire

FRIDAY 24TH FEBRUARYTODD SNIDER IN CONCERT

Support Morgan MacIntyre

Member of the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame, co-writer of eight Billboard Number One hits, John Oates (of Hall & Oates) is joined ‘In the Round’ by Iain Archer and Gareth Dunlop. John will be singing some of the songs that we all remember including the unforgettable Hall & Oates hit ‘She’s Gone’ and some songs from his brilliant new album ‘Mississippi Mile’.

From co-writing Snow Patrol’s breakthrough hit ‘Run’, Iain Archer continues to write beautiful memorable lyrics. Throughout his songs a sense of place is important to the music he creates. It can be heard throughout his work, the geography of ‘Frozen Northern Shores,’ or the imaginings of ‘Black Mountain Quarry.’ Each new song reveals a fresh sonic landscape.

The winner of the 2012 Young Songwriter of the Year Award, Gareth Dunlop, has had a very productive few years. Now signed with a leading Nashville publishing company, Gareth spends a lot of time touring in both the UK and USA. His songs have featured in numerous hit television series including ‘Cougar Town’, ‘One Tree Hill’ and more. His latest EP ‘The Devil Mocks Me’ features five fabulous new songs.

johnoates.com, iainarcher.co.uk, garethdunlop.com

May St Church, behind City Hall Belfast

Doors 7.30pm Show 8.15pmAge Limit 14+ Fully Seated

Quite possibly America’s sharpest musical storyteller.” – Rolling Stone

Following on from the release of the critically acclaimed live CD ’The Storyteller,’ Todd Snider makes his first trip to Belfast, a rare treat for music lovers. A cult figure from the same lineage as Kristofferson and Prine, Todd’s live performances are truly captivating. He cleverly combines sharp writing, acclaimed musicianship and endearing storytelling for

a one-of-a-kind night of great songs. Master of the hilarious simile, he is a songwriter with a wicked grasp of the sublime and the ridiculous. Few performers have ever achieved the degree of familiarity that Snider manages so effortlessly—you feel less like part of an audience and more like one of his pals.

toddsnider.net

Madison’s Hotel Cellar, Botanic Avenue

Doors 8pm Show 8.45pm



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FRIDAY 24TH FEBRUARYWINE WOMEN AND SONG THE HENRY GIRLS Special guests Isobel Anderson, Allie Bradley, Katharine Philippa

Tonight’s concert features an exciting mix of great female songwriters. Opening the show, performing ‘In the Round,’ three hugely talented artists, Isobel Anderson, Allie Bradley and Katharine Philippa. isobelanderson.com, myspace.com/alliebradleymusic, katharinephilippa.comFast becoming one of the most talked about folk/roots acts to come out of Ireland, The Henry Girls are also developing an international reputation. Their unique sound blends classic traditional Irish folk music with a hint of Americana, a nod to bluegrass and more in between.

Renowned for their fine close harmonies and musical arrangements, they have been likened to other harmonising siblings such as the McGarrigle sisters and Everly Brothers. They write great catchy songs and their repertoire is scattered with a style that reflects their varied influences and tastes. They have released four albums their latest ‘December Moon.’

thehenrygirls.com

Empire Music Hall, Botanic Avenue

Doors 6pm Show 6.45pm sharpStrictly 18+ Part Seated & Standing

FRIDAY 24TH FEBRUARYCOLLIN RAYE IN CONCERTSPECIAL MC DOWNTOWN RADIO’S COUNTRY MUSIC PRESENTER BIG T

One of the true hit makers in Nashville, Collin Raye still continues to create soulful, heartfelt material with the honesty and richness that is signature to his voice. Between 1990 and 2007 he charted 30 singles in the USA Charts with 16 reaching the number 1 spot. Nominated five times as country music’s top male vocalist, Collin has penned many top songs including “Love Me,” “In this Life,” “Little Rock” and “What the Heart Wants”.

Country music fans - don’t miss your chance to see this award-winning artist perform live in the Empire Music Hall.

collinraye.com

The Empire Music Hall, Botanic Avenue

Doors open 9.30pm show 10.15pm sharp

SPECIAL EMPIRE WINE PROMOTION HARDY’S VR WINES ONLY £9 A BOTTLE, £4.50 A qUARTER BOTTLE



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FRIDAY 24TH FEBRUARYELEANOR MCEVOY, DANA COOPER, RY CAVANAUGH ‘IN THE ROUND CONCERTSupport Dee Mcqueen

FRIDAY 24TH FEBRUARYPAUL CASEY & BAND IN CONCERT Support Unquiet Nights (Acoustic Set)

Her songs have a quietly powerful beauty and Eleanor McEvoy delivers them with a captivating individual voice. Her new album ‘Alone’ is Eleanor at her very best, a collection of hauntingly beautiful acoustically driven songs. One of Nashville’s most respected songwriters Dana Cooper is an amazing live performer and if you don’t think there’s much to strumming a guitar, you have to see Dana do it!! His latest release, ‘The Conjurer’ is a wonderful collection of new songs.

Son of a Honky Tonk singer, Ry Cavanaugh has been a central figure in the Cambridge Massachusetts Folk and Rock scene for many years. He currently performs with ‘Session Americana,’ a Boston-based band, and solo. His song ‘Lighthouse Light’ has been recorded by Mary Black and features on her latest album.

eleanormcevoy.com danacoopermusic.com rycavanaugh.comDana Cooper Workshop 6pm-7pm £5Castlereagh Civic Centre, Upper Galwally Road (Facing Forestside)

Doors 7.30pm Show 8.00pm

Song writing legend Chris Rea, was so impressed by Paul’s material that he offered him the chance to tour the world as a member of his band. Since then Paul has produced Rea’s most recent album, as well as playing an extensive round of live performances with his own band. His has just released his new album ‘Big World’ and is also working on composing music for

number of TV and film productions in the US. With an exceptional command of slide guitar and a unique flair for penning striking songs Paul’s live performances are mesmerising.

paulcaseymusic.comThe King’s Head, 829 Lisburn Road, Belfast

Doors 8pm Showtime 9pm

We are delighted that Nashville legend and festival favourite Nanci Griffith returns to join this year’s line-up. Nanci is one of life’s observers, an archivist of memories. Along with Emmylou Harris and Steve Earle she maintains her position as one of the most important voices in Americana; an impassioned songwriter unafraid to tackle difficult subjects head on.

In February 2012 Nanci released her twentieth album ‘Intersections.’ Co-produced, with The Kennedys (Maura & Pete) and Pat McInerney, the album includes several powerful new original songs. The Kennedys join Nanci on stage at this year’s concert.

nancigriffith.comMay Street Church, Behind City Hall, Belfast

Doors 7.30pm Show 8.30pm,14+ Age Group, Fully Seated

FRIDAY 24TH FEBRUARYNANCI GRIFFITH & BAND

IN CONCERT



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FRIDAY 24TH FEBRUARYMARK NEVIN, JARROD DICKENSON, PETER MC VEIGH ‘IN THE ROUND’ CONCERT

FRIDAY 24TH FEBRUARY

SIX OF THE BEST IN CONCERT SILOUETTE, AARON SHANLEY,

KEN HADDOCK WES GRIERSON, MARK GRAHAM, MIKE DONAGHY

‘an astonishingly accomplished songsmith...the elegant simplicity of Nevin’s songs is beguiling, inspired, graceful and vulnerable’ Mojo Magazine

For his band Fairground Attraction Mark Nevin wrote the hit ‘Perfect’ and went on to pen songs for many other artists including Morrissey and David Bowie. His third solo release ‘Stand Beside Me In The Sun,’ sees him honing his distinctive narrative style with perhaps his most personal work to date.Texas-born, Jarrod Dickenson, won the BelNash Song Writing Competition in 2011 and went down a storm when he performed live at the festival. His melodies and lyrics invoke a mid-

Western post-war America. He has released two superb albums ‘Ashes on the Ground’ and ‘Live at the Roost House.’ From Belfast, Peter McVeigh began his musical career as the lead singer with the acclaimed band Eskimos Fall. Now a solo artist, he released his brilliant debut EP ‘The Lights All Blur to One’ in 2011. A writer with a gift for story-telling, he writes wonderful songs that we can all relate to. This prolific songwriter has also worked with Madonna and Crowded House.

marknevin.com petermcveigh.com jarroddickenson.com14+ Concert Strictly 18+ in BAR AREA The Cube, Crescent Arts Centre, University Rd

Doors 9.30pm Show 10pm

14+ Concert Strictly 18+ in BAR AREA

The Cube (Early Concert)

Crescent Arts Centre, University Rd

Doors 5.30pm show 6pm


ACOUSTIC SONG SESSION 6PM-8PM @MADISONS

THURSday 23Rd FEBRUaRy

PRS foR muSic AfteRShow club fRee eNtRY to PRS foR muSic membeRS AND eveRYoNe who hAS bought A feStivAl oR coNveNtioN ticket. PleASe bRiNg PRoof of membeRShiP oR YouR belNASh feStivAl ticket foR eNtRY.

liNe uP: RiA mAguiRe, JohN D’ARcY11pm, Madisons Hotel Cellar

follow uS oN fAcebook, twitteR AND mYSPAcePRSfoRmuSic.com

FRiday 24TH FEBRUaRy

PANARtS SoNgwRiteR’S ShowcASe

Third acoustic song session held during the Cocktail Happy Hour at Madisons Hotel. No PA just play. Come along with your guitar and join the circle (or just listen in).

Tonights informal session is led by Stephen Maguire, Morgan MacIntyre, Madeleine Slate (CAN)


Doors 6pm – 8pm

Paddy Nash, emily Rose conlon, Jonny Nixonmama kaz, bruce mcclements, katharine timoney

Speir Rua, finn mcginn, maurice byrneJohn Hewitt Bar, donegall Street Belfast

Showtime 7.30pm



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AT A GLANCE - Wednesday 22nd February 2012

Convention Workshops www.belfastnashville.com for details

FRIDAY 24TH FEBRUARYTHE 4 OF US

ACOUSTICCONCERT

Support John D’Arcy

Fans old and new will be thrilled with this intimate Black Box gig from the multi-award winning The 4 Of Us. Voted one of the Top 10 Best Irish Bands of All Time on RTE’s TV3, the gig will include acoustic renditions from the group’s extensive back catalogue which includes seven critically acclaimed albums and such memorable songs as Mary, She Hits Me and Sunlight.

Powered by founding members brothers Brendan and Declan Murphy, The 4 Of Us are fresh from a string of sell-out gigs across Germany and Ireland.

www.the4ofus.comDoors 8pm, show 8.45pmStrictly over 18


CONCERT & SCREENING JOHN T. DAVIES AWARD WINNING FILM ‘SHELL SHOCK ROCK’ AND ‘THE SKY RANCH BOYS’ FEATURING JOHN T DAVIS & SHANE SUNDAY

John T. Davis is internationally recognized as Northern Ireland’s most distinctive documentary filmmaker and cinematographer. He is also an accomplished singer songwriter and with Ojibwa Canadian double bass player Shane Sunday formed ‘The Sky Ranch Boys’.‘Shell Shock Rock,’ a film about Belfast’s underground punk music scene in the late

1970s has become a cult classic. It focuses on the energy and optimism generated by punk bands, including The Undertones, Rudi, The Outcasts and Stiff Little Fingers, during the darkest days of the Troubles.

No Alibis Bookstore 83 Botanic Ave, Belfast

Doors 8pmContact [email protected] 028 9031 9601

Performance Venue Time Price

John Oates Trio in Concert empire music hallDoors

8.00pm£20

Belfast Met Songwriters black box cafeDoors

8.00pm£3

Acoustic Song Session maDisons hotelDoors

6.00pmfree

Mick Flannery in Concert black boxDoors

8.00pm£10

Dan Donnelly in Concert maDisons hotel cellar

Doors8.00pm

£5

Robyn G Shiels, Versechourusverse, John McGurgan, Best Boy Grip, Michael Hannaway, Calvero

lavery’s back barDoors

10.00pmfree

The Lagan Sessions, David McCann, Steve Amos, Lazy Files, Gavin Mee, Jonny Nixon, Lake Montgomery

pavilion barDoors

8.00pm£5

PRS Aftershow Club maDisons hotel cellar

Doors11.00pm

free

Convention Workshops www.belfastnashville.com for details £50



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AT A GLANCE - Thursday 23rd February 2012 AT A GLANCE - Friday 24th February 2012

Convention Workshops www.belfastnashville.com for detailsConvention Workshops www.belfastnashville.com for details


Bap Kennedy & Band support errol Walsh

empire music hallDoors

9.00pm£15

Gordon Giltrap & Woody Mann support Dana cooper

maDisons hotel cellar

Doors8.00pm

£10

Acoustic Song Session maDisons hotelDoors

6.00pmfree

Panarts Songwriters Showcase john heWitt barDoors

7.30pmfree


Doors11.00pm

free

Mark Nevin in Concert/ The Kennedy’s in Concert

black box18 hill street

Doors8.00pm

£10

John Oates, Iain Archer, Gareth Dunlop may st churchDoors

7.30pm£20


Todd Snider in Concert maDison’s hotel cellar

Doors8.00pm

£10

Wine, Women and Song, The Henry Girls empire music hallDoors

6.00pm£10

Collin Raye in Concert empire music hallDoors

9.30pm£20

Elanor McEvoy, Dana Cooper, RY Cavanaugh in the Round

castlereagh civic centre

Doors7.30pm

£8

Paul Casey & Band in Concertsupport unquiet nights

the king’s heaDDoors

8.00pm£10

Nanci Griffith & Band in Concert may street churchDoors

7.30pm£22

Acoustic Song Session maDison’s hotelDoors

6.00pmfree

Panarts Songwriters Showcase john heWitt barDoors

7.30pmfree


Doors11.00pm

free

Six of the Best in Concert the cube, crescent arts centre

Doors7.30pm

£3

Mark Nevin, Jarrod Dickenson, Peter McVeigh in the Round

the cube, crescent arts centre

Doors9.30pm

£8

The 4 of Us Acoustic Concert black boxDoors

8.00pm£10

Concert & Screening - John T Davis no alibis bookstore

Doors8.00pm

£8



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A Special Concert - The Lost Brothers maDisons hotelDoors

8.00pm£8

Belnash 8th Birthday Concert (3 Songs Each) Nanci and friends early show

maDisons hotelDoors

2.00pm£8

AT A GLANCE - Saturday 25th February 2012

AT A GLANCE - Sunday 26th February 2012

SATURDAY 25TH FEBRUARYCMA & BMI PRESENT

CMA SONGWRITERS SERIES CONCERT

CLINT BLACK, BILL ANDERSON,

BOB DIPIEROSpecial MC Downtown Radio’s

Country Presenter Big TSupport Gary quinn

With support from BMI, we are delighted the Country Music Association’s CMA Songwriters Series is in Northern Ireland for the first time, featuring the best of Nashville’s mega-hit songwriters.Prolific singer-songwriter and former CMA Male Vocalist of the Year, Clint Black has long been heralded as one of Country music’s most successful artists. He has written and recorded 22 No. 1s and 30 Top 10 Billboard Chart hits! With more than 20 million albums worldwide, his debut album Killin’ Time had five #1 hits – unprecedented from any debut album in any genre.

A member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, Bill Anderson is a million-selling recording artist many times over. He was awarded CMA Song of the Year for his poignant ballad, “Whiskey Lullaby,” recorded by Brad Paisley and Alison Krauss and for “Give It Away,” recorded by George Strait.

He is one of Nashville’s most prolific writers. Bob DiPiero has written 15 #1 hits and his songs have been recorded by Tim McGraw, Reba McEntire, Vince Gill, Faith Hill and Martina McBride. In 2012 he was nominated for both an Oscar and Golden Globe for ‘Coming Home’ in the film ‘Country Strong’ staring Gwyneth Paltrow.

These three amazing songwriters will take turns telling the stories and performing their songs as originally written.

BMI.com cmasongwriterseries.com clintblack.com bobdipiero.com billanderson.com myspace.com/garyjpquinn


Doors 9pm Show 9.30pm SharpStrictly 18+ Part Seated & Standing


CMA & BMI Present Clint Black, Bill Anderson, Bob Dipiero empire music hall

Doors9.00pm

£20

Fionn Regan in Concert may street church

Doors7.30pm

£15

Collin Raye, Eleanor McEvoy, Gerry Creen in the Round early show


Doors3.00pm

£18

Iain Archer in Concertsupport jennifer crook


Doors8.00pm

£14

Tori Sparks & Friends in the Round mc hugh’s barDoors

5.30pm£4

Panarts Songwriter’s Showcase john heWitt barDoors

7.30pmfree

Nanci Griffith, Matt McGinn, Ria Maguire in the Round early show

empire music hallDoors

5.00pm£20

Todd Snider, Lee Rogers, Declan Doherty, Joe Pug in the Round black box

Doors8.00pm

£10

Belnash Songwriter’s Showcase Concert crescent arts centre

Doors5.00pm

free

Americana Concert - RY Cavanaugh BandTed Ponsonby, Denise Boyle, The Farriers, Jarrod Dickenson

lavery’s barDoors

1.00pm£5

Malojian @ No Alibis EP Launch no alibis bookstore

Doors8.00pm

£8



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‘Regan can be sassy and scruffy, or quiveringly sincere, but he’s never uninteresting. Words and images tumble out – we infer that he’s a fool for love, but a cynical one – and by the end, you’re thoroughly dazzled’ The Guardian

Since he was short-listed for the 2007 Mercury Music Award, Fionn Regan has been hailed as Ireland’s leading songwriter. His 2006 debut, ‘The End of History’ was an acoustic and

lyrical masterpiece. In 2010, he released “The Shadow of an Empire” which was also critically well-received. His latest release ‘100 Acres of Sycamore’ is a gorgeous, heartfelt, orchestral album- ‘consistently beautiful’ –The Scotsman

fionnregan.com

May Street Church, Behind City Hall, Belfast

Doors 7.30pm Show 8.15pm14+ Age Group, Fully Seated

“gig after gig, seminars, workshops, industry dudes, fun, Nashville singer songwriters, producers…incredible” Jayne Trimble

8th Panarts Song Writing Convention™

In addition to the festival showcases and concerts, each year we organise a music industry conference exploring the art of song writing and the music business through workshops, drop in sessions and panel discussions. The 8th Panarts Song Writing Convention will feature 15 events over a 3 day period, Thurs 24th February – Sat 25th February 2012. Headed up by Ivor Novella Award winning songwriter Iain Archer (Example, Leona Lewis, Snow Patrol) and John Oates of Hall & Oates fame, this year promises to be our best yet. Full list of events, workshop titles and dates/times will be announced early February at www.belfastnashville.comHere are just a few of the topics:

Song Writing & The Music BusinessIn this workshop John Oates (of Hall & Oates) will look at collaboration and the importance of song writing as the foundation of the music business

Writing A Different SongIain Archer will explore ways to write that unique song that works

What we’ve learned and what we’re trying to forgetIn this workshop Brendan and Declan Murphy of The 4 of US will talk about their experiences in song writing over the last 20 years. At the end, there will be time for a question and answer session.

“Actually... It Doesn’t Have To Be Perfect”Mark Nevin, who wrote the Fairground Attraction classic ‘Perfect’, talks about writing the song and the importance of not letting a quest for musical perfection inhibit the song writing process.

More first class workshops will be delivered by professional songwriters Collin Raye (USA), Todd Snider (USA), Bap & Brenda Kennedy, Dana Cooper (USA), Eleanor McEvoy, Dan Donnelly and Pete & Maura Kennedy. We’ll have a skills workshop on Open Tuning for Songwriters delivered by Paul McMordie of OSSIA and music industry drop in sessions with Stuart Fleming PRS for Music, Simon Aldridge BMI and Jennifer Hunter of The Musicians Union.

Tickets £50 - 15 Workshops & All Concerts at Madisons HotelTelephone 028 9024 6609, Belfast Welcome Centre. 47 Donegall Place, (opposite M&S)

Tickets include all Convention workshops and every festival concert in Madisons Hotel, 22nd-26th February 2012 including, Dan Donnelly, Gordon Giltrap (ENG) & Woody Mann (USA), Todd Snider (USA), 8th Belnash Birthday Concert (3 Songs Each with Nanci Griffith & Friends), PRS for Music After Show Club.

SATURDAY 25TH FEBRUARYFIONN REGAN IN CONCERT



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SATURDAY 25TH FEBRUARY

COLLIN RAYE, ELEANOR MCEVOY, GERRY CREEN ‘IN THE ROUND CONCERT’

SATURDAY 25TH FEBRUARYIAIN ARCHER IN CONCERT

Support Jennifer Crook

Nashville hit writer Collin Raye can evoke a vast array of emotions during his songs with his captivating delivery of a heartfelt love ballad or a foot tapping upbeat country hit. This multi-platinum award-winning artist has had more than 30 chart-topping singles. Eleanor McEvoy wrote and recorded the worldwide hit single ‘A Woman’s Heart,’ the title track on the best-selling album in Irish chart history. Artists including Emmylou Harris and Mary Black have recorded her songs. Her latest release, ‘Alone’, a beautiful collection

of 12 stripped-down solo tracks. One of our finest songwriters Gerry Creen emerged from the vibrant folk scene of the ‘70s. Over the years he’s shared stages with Nanci Griffith, Paul Brady, Ralph McTell, Donovan, Loudon Wainwright, and many more. He writes with real sensitivity and passion which is displayed in his last album ‘Hindsight’

collinraye.com eleanormcevoy.com gerrycreen.com14+ Concert Strictly 18+ in BAR AREA The Cube, Crescent Arts Centre

2 University Road Belfast


An outstanding performer and songwriter, Bangor born Iain Archer makes a welcome return to the BelNash festival.Winner of an Ivor Novello award as part of the song writing team behind Snow Patrols ‘Run’, Iain is no stranger to successful collaborations. The past few years have seen Iain co-write the title track of Example’s No 1 selling album ‘Playing in the Shadows’. He also teamed up with old friend Gary Lightbody to make the album ‘The Place we Ran From’ by new band Tired Pony. Two of the songs on Charlie Simpson’s debut solo album were also written with Iain. Supporting at the concert will be

Jennifer Crook who has been making waves with her unique songs and has worked with Boo Hewerdine, Eddie Reader and Chris Difford. Her superb songs have recently been featured on the BBC Radio 2 programme; ‘Jennifer in Session on Bob Harris’

Iain has also agreed to head up the 8th Song Writing Convention and will deliver a one-hour workshop on Friday 24th February; ‘Writing A Different Song’

iainarcher.co.uk

14+ Concert Strictly 18+ in BAR AREA The Cube, Crescent Arts Centre

Doors 8pm Show 8.45pmSeated Theatre 18+

COLLIN RAYE

GERRY CREEN

ELEANOR MCEVOY



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NANCI GRIFFITH, MATT MCGINN, RIA MAGUIRE ‘IN THE ROUND’ CONCERT

‘In the Round’ with Nanci Griffith at the Empire has become a highlight of the festival and this year is special with the launch of her new acclaimed album ‘Intersections’.A unique feature of our festival is to ask international artists to share a stage with the best of Northern Irish talent. Performing with Nanci are local songwriters Matt McGinn and Ria Maguire, two of the finest writers to emerge in recent years.

A sensitive and passionate songwriter Ria Maguire is an artist who weaves a spell over her audience. Her songs deal mostly with the human condition and she delivers them with a voice brimming over with soul, depth and emotion. Ria has shared a stage with Midge Ure, Darrell Scott, Eddi Reader and Dougie MacLean. This is the official launch of her new

EP – ‘Into The Silence’. we hope the first of many from this home-grown talent.

With his seamless blend of folk and soul, Matt McGinn combines his sublime guitar skills with fabulous rasping blues vocals. No stranger to the big stage, Matt, with Joe Echo, played support to Sir Paul McCartney in Hyde Park and he also appeared at Oxegen and Electric Picnic. In 2010 Matt released his album ‘Livin’, a collection of 12 wonderful songs.

nancigriffith.com myspace.com/riamaguire mattmcginnmusic.com

Early Show, Saturday 25th Feb


Doors open 5pm, Show 5.40pmStrictly 18+ Part Seated & Standing

‘this girl hurls you onto planet Sparks and leaves you there ..Tori is truly, one of the most original artists I have heard in a long, long time.”

Rebecca Rego, Music News Nashville

Tori Sparks, originally from Nashville, now

based in Barcelona, spends most of her time

on the road playing all over the world. She

has released four critically-acclaimed albums

on her own label, the latest Until Morning/

Come out of the Dark. Joining Tori are some

of Northern Ireland’s most gifted songwriters.

Why not check out each artist online to hear

their songs.

torisparks.com

McHugh’s Bar (Downstairs)

29 Queens Square, Behind Albert Clock

Doors 5.30pm Show 6pm

RIA MAGUIRE

NANCI GRIFFITHMATT MCGINN

PHOTO BY KEN HADDOCK


TORI SPARKS & FRIENDS‘IN THE ROUND’ CONCERT


PANARTS SONGWRITER’S SHOWCASE

Wes Grierson, Tom Taylor Biggs (ENG), Folk & The Rest, Finbar Magee, Alan Patterson,

Allison McGrath, Bob White, Brigid O’Neill, Tony Playford, John Knox, Red Bird Sky

John Hewitt Bar Donegall Street Belfast

Showtime 7.30pm

TICKETS - www.belfastnashville.com or Ticket Master@Easons, Donegall Place 028 9032 3744

31Belfast Nashville Songwriters® the art of song writing™

Since 1994 Todd Snider has been spiking his roots-based music with humour, wit and a definite political vibe. With a mix of bluegrass, blues, folk-rock and country, Todd has a unique way of making you laugh amidst all of life’s strange happenings that he sings about.

Lee Rogers’ music has the distinctive sound of artists like Van Morrison and Paul Brady while remaining uniquely his own. Live, he combines heart stopping vocals and slick acoustic guitar with great stories. In March 2012 Lee will launch his much anticipated album Citizen General.

Established as one of the most popular performers on the local circuit, Declan Doherty writes great songs fusing Celtic Rock with Americana Roots music.

Declan appears as ‘Shaky Horse’ and is also part of the duo ‘The New Sheriffs.’

Following the release of his first two EPs, Joe Pug became something of a critical enigma. Messenger his 2010 CD, began to turn that tide, introducing him to a national audience and heralding his arrival among the next generation of great American songwriters. His music is stripped and honest, folk songs with both a tender heart and a sharply-pointed message.

toddsnider.net leerogersmusic.com myspace.com/declandmusic joepugmusic.comBlack Box 18 Hill Street Belfast

Doors open 8pm Show 8.45pmAge Limit 18+


TODD SNIDER, LEE ROGERS,DECLAN DOHERTY, JOE PUG ‘IN THE ROUND’ CONCERT

DECLAN DOHERTY

JOE PUG

TODD SNIDERLEE ROGERS



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BELNASH SONGWRITER’S SHOWCASE CONCERT FREE SHOWCASE CONCERT

SATURDAY 25TH FEBRUARYAMERICANA CONCERT

RY CAVANAUGH BAND FEATURING TED PONSONBY & DENISE BOYLE

THE FARRIERS, JARROD DICKENSON

5.30pm-6.30pm Brendan Monaghan, Matt Jones, Leah Jordan, Freelance

6.45pm-7.45pm Steve Dan Mills (USA), Chrisy McCullagh, Relph & Quinn, Wayne Carr

8.00pm-9.00pm Steve Haggard (USA), Tony Garcia (USA), Peter Baxter, Emily Rose Conlon

9.15pm-10.15pm Bruce McClements, Garry Jackson (CAN), Madeleine Slate (CAN), Fretwear

10.30pm-11.30pm Our Krypton Son, Morgan MacIntyre, Michael Kerr, Karrie

Each year at the songwriter’s festival we showcase at the Crescent Arts Centre and The John Hewitt. The line up in tonight’s concert is outstanding with local artists performing alongside international songwriters from Canada and America. If you support Live Music or you’re a music agent or manager in search of new talent, why not drop by to hear song writing at its best.

14+ Concert Strictly 18+ in BAR AREA The Studio, Crescent Arts CentreUniversity Road, BelfastDoors 5pm Show 5.30pm

With a song on Mary Black’s new album and a string of dates touring with The Henry Girls, Boston singer-songwriter, Ry Cavanaugh performs Americana at its best. With his band featuring world-class musicians Ted Ponsonby and Denise Boyle, this performance is one not to be missed.

Bangor- born band The Farriers are rocking the contemporary folk scene playing their great upbeat, rootsy music. In 2011 they recorded their first album, ‘Years Ago in Our Back Yard.’ If you haven’t bought it yet, visit their website.

Texas-born story-teller, Jarrod Dickenson will

take you back in time to the days of The Great Depression with captivating songs & stories of old. His thoughtful lyrics combined with the raw emotion in his voice are captivating. Featured last year at the Belnash Birthday Concert, Jarrod stunned the audience with his own unique style of playing and singing.

rycavanaugh.com myspace.com/farriersmusic jarroddickenson.com Laverys Bar Upstairs

12-16 Bradbury Place Belfast

Doors 1pm Show 1.30pmAge 18+

RY CAVANAUGH

THE FARRIERS

JARROD DICKENSON



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MALOJIAN @ NO ALIBISEP LAUNCH - THE BROKEN DEERSPECIAL GUEST ROBYN G SHIELDS

‘A funny, tender, magic marvel that will go some way to making your life better.’ Gary Lightbody

Having established his song writing credentials with the band Cat Malojian, Stevie Scullion now as Malojian makes his much anticipated solo debut with The Broken Deer EP.

malojian.comNo Alibis Bookstore, 83 Botanic Ave, Belfast

Doors 8pmContact [email protected] 028 9031 9601

5 DAY PASS ALL CONCERT GOLD TICKET

Belfast Nashville Gold TicketFrom 22nd - 26th February 2012

(Nick Lowe Concert 16th February not included)

Priority given to ticket holders at stated door times

After door times, health & safety numbers apply

Ticket Price: £60Telephone 028 9024 6609

Belfast Welcome Centre, 47 Donegall Place (opposite M&S)


ACOUSTIC SONG SESSION 6PM-8PM @MADISONSIt’s the final acoustic song session held during the Cocktail Happy Hour at Madisons Hotel. No PA just play. Come along with your guitar and join the circle (or just listen in)!!

Tonights informal session is led by Steve Haggard (USA), Brian Hassan, Ronan McGinley.Madisons Hotel, Botanic Avenue

Doors 6pm – 8pm

TICKETS - www.belfastnashville.com or Belfast Welcome Centre, 47 Donegall Place 028 9024 6609

36 Belfast Nashville Songwriters® “the art of song writing”

It’s party time at the Belnash. Joining Nanci Griffith at our annual birthday bash are some of the finest songwriters around. Karrie, Antoin, Tori Sparks (USA), Peter Baxter, Mama Kaz, Gary Quinn, Katharine Philippa and Brendan Monaghan will sing

three songs each ‘In The Round’ to celebrate the eighth year of the songwriter’s festival. Get your tickets early, this one always sells out.

‘Katherine Brick Award for Young Songwriter of the Year’ Presented Today



Woody Guthrie was born 100 years ago on July 14th 1912. He died October 3rd 1967 as a result of a rare hereditary condition called Huntington’s disease having established himself as one of the major icons of American folk music. The songwriter’s festival and Errol Walsh are marking this centenary with a special concert in aid of Huntington’s Disease Association. It’s an extremely debilitating neurological terminal condition and has no cure. It affects approximately 200 families in N. Ireland who suffer stigma, isolation and a lack of dedicated medical support.

More information on Huntington’s www.hdani.org.uk or call the 24 hour helplines 028 9022 1950 or 028 2177 1812.

Since the release of their acclaimed debut album, Trails of the Lonely, The Lost Brothers have kept on the move, calling no place their home. In the past year they recorded their follow up album, So Long John Fante, and have performed on the same bill as Bob Dylan & Van Morrison.

thelostbrothersband.comMadisons Hotel


SUNDAY 26TH FEBRUARY

8TH BELNASH™ BIRTHDAY CONCERTNANCI GRIFFITH & FRIENDS3 SONGS EACH

SUNDAY 26TH FEBRUARY

A SPECIAL CONCERT - THE LOST BROTHERSIN AID OF HUNTINGTON’S DISEASE ASSOCIATION NORTHERN IRELAND



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PANARTS CELEBRATES TWENTY YEARS 1992-2012

‘Songwriters from Belfast dazzled Nashville audiences with a diverse array of talents. We are thankful to Panarts for organising these amazing showcases’

Heather Cochran Cunningham, Executive Director, Sister Cities of Nashville

‘Every meeting and showcase set up by Panarts led to other doors opening’

Gareth Dunlop, Songwriter

The first ambitious project in 1992 was a six month inter-community Musicians’ Showcase. Sixteen performers trained for three months in Belfast, then toured for another three months across nine states in America, showcasing at universities and festivals.

LEARN ABOUT US (Funded by Department of Education, Northern Ireland). A community relations programme with primary schools.

‘The children gained enormously from the programme in terms of building their confidence and self esteem’ Dinah McManus, Holy Family Primary School Principal

‘Panarts inspired the children to be curious and we thoroughly enjoyed all the singing and playing instruments’ Helen Montgomery, Strandtown Primary School Teacher

CHANGING LIFESTYLES. An inter-generational project exploring the history of the Ards Peninsula

‘The quality of content and delivery was of the highest order and it created a fantastic learning experience for the children’ Hugh O’Prey Principal, St Finian’s Primary School

MUSICAL FRONTIERSMEN...Songs and Stories of Emigration to North America

‘The pupils understood the meaning of emigration and began to get a sense of what it felt like for people in the past’ Isa Ferguson, Primary School Teacher

We would like to give huge thanks the Panarts team, volunteers, funders, sponsors and all the groups we have worked with over the past twenty years.

Joe Duffy, Panarts Chair Colin Magee, Panarts Director

Panarts was formed in 1992 to encourage respect for diversity through the arts and cultural exchange. Eight years ago we created the Belfast Nashville Songwriters Festival to celebrate the art of song writing and since then we have been successfully organising concerts and showcases in both cities.

‘this is an egoless festival of great songs, songwriters and troubadours. A place where we can all dream under the one roof’ Ben Reel, Songwriter

Panarts Showcase in American 1992 with Don McLean

5 DAY PASS ALL CONCERT GOLD TICKET

Belfast Nashville Gold TicketFrom 22nd - 26th February 2012

(Nick Lowe Concert 16th February not included)

Priority given to ticket holders at stated door times

After door times, health & safety numbers apply

Ticket Price: £60Telephone 028 9024 6609

Belfast Welcome Centre, 47 Donegall Place (opposite M&S)

23RD - 25TH FEBRUARY 2012

8TH PANARTS SONG WRITING CONVENTION™Each year we organise a music industry conference exploring the art of song

writing and the music business through workshops and panel discussions.

The 8th Panarts Song Writing Convention will feature 15 events over 3 days. Headed

up by Ivor Novella Award winning songwriter Iain Archer (Example, Leona Lewis, Snow

Patrol) and John Oates of Hall & Oates fame, this year promises to be our best yet. Full

list of events and times announced early February at www.belfastnashville.com

Ticket £50.00

8th Belfast Nashville Songwriters Festival 2012

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