RaW

How did it start?

The Suffolk songwriters first started in the late 90s when local songwriter, Tony James Shevlin decided to start an informal evening with a few friends at the Olive Leaf pub (now the Grinning Rat) in Ipswich.

The evenings expanded as word got around, and local songwriters with no other outlet available jumped at the chance to play their developing material to others in a supportive atmosphere.

Who can join?

Anyone interested in song-writing. There is no membership and events are free. People just turn up to various events to take part or watch. We regularly have people from outside Suffolk too!

What age groups do you target?

We don't target any particular age group or musical style. We are just as happy to see a 16 year old as a 60 year old and regularly get both attending open-mic sessions. You do need to be old enough to get allowed in the pub though!

Tell us about your accomplishments..

Many regular participants are in successful local bands, or play solo successfully. Many have released albums, and been featured on radio.  Many have played at live events on the strength of their Suffolk Songwriters performance.  Recent examples include Music in the Park and the Green Family Fun day.

How often do you meet up and where?

We have an 'open-mic' night on the first Thursday of every month at The Arboretum on Ipswich High Street near the Museum. On the night, anyone is free to turn up and play one or two of their own compositions. It is a valuable opportunity for seasoned performers to try out new material live, and also a very useful stepping stone to get new performers onto the live
scene.

We recommend getting there at 8:30ish to avoid disappointment, we also run occasional showcase nights where open-mic performers get to play a longer set. These have been of exceptional quality to date.

Does it cost anything to join?

All events are free. We also record performances and provide these to give performers a keepsake and help them improve. Currently this is free too. 

With ever increasing numbers of performers, Suffolk Songwriters is a great opportunity for inexperienced and experienced songwriters to play their songs to an appreciative and attentive audience.

Interested?

Follow the links to the right of the page for contact details, or email andy@suffolksongwriters.co.uk