In the last week of February, more than one hundred songwriters will play thirty concerts in venues around Belfast City centre. It’s the 6th Guinness Belfast Nashville Songwriters Festival and it just gets better every year.
Talented local writers Iain Archer and Andy White are joined by artists from around the world including Midge Ure, Ralph McTell, Holly Williams (USA), Tom Baxter, Charlie Winston and Dave Gunning (Canada). Nashville’s Nanci Griffith returns on her annual vacation to Belfast and there’ll be a few more surprises announced before the end of the year. Festival Director Colin Magee said:
“We’re highlighting the art of song writing and giving credit to the writer behind the song. With support from our funders and sponsors we are showcasing new music alongside established artists. Botanic Avenue will become ‘Little Nashville’ for five days in February and music industry professionals will be here to give advice at our annual Song Writing Convention”
A real festival highlight takes place in the recently refurbished Ulster Hall, Saturday 27th February when Tom Baxter headlines the Avalon Guitars Concert. He’s joined by american songwriter Holly Williams, daughter of Hank Williams Jn. New Belfast talent John D’Arcy plays support at the main Ulster Hall gig. Tickets and full details available online at www.belfastnashville.com and Belfast Welcome Centre, 47 Donegall Place (beside City hall) telephone 02890246609. Tom Baxter concert tickets also at www.ulsterhall.co.uk 02890334455.
Festival Funders: Belfast City Council, Arts Council of Northern Ireland Lottery Funds, Laganside Dept. For Social Development Sponsors: Guinness Diageo, Madisons Hotel, Avalon Guitars, American Consulate, PRS for Music, PRS Foundation, Castlereagh Arts.
Colin Magee, Festival Director
