We are all exposed to a myriad of anecdotes and stories – overheard at bus stops, told at the dinner table, past on through families and communities. These can be a rich mine of material to help us explore feelings, motivations, relationships. Stories of specific people can be a way in for others to reflect on their own experiences – love stories, overcoming adversity and tales of adventure.

In this workshop we will look at turning these stories into songs. How do we keep an eye out for anecdotes and make sure we capture then? What are some of the conventions of folk, rock and pop songs? How do we distil some of the ideas that come out, making them into ear catching hooks and choruses?

Phil Jones is an experienced workshop facilitator and the writer behind Fringe production, “Snow Along the Line”, a multimedia show about the life of a woman born in 1928 and the life and times she lived through. Bring pads, instruments and any photographs.