Drogheda Songwriting Festival 2026 Synopsis
Drogheda Songwriting Festival. A full weekend of songwriting, collaboration and creativity returns to Drogheda — bigger and better than ever before!
Now expanded into a two-day event, this year’s festival offers even more opportunities for songwriters, musicians and creatives to connect, collaborate and create brand new music alongside an incredible team of experienced mentors.
Taking place exclusively in the Barbican Centre, Drogheda, participants will have access to multiple creative spaces designed for co-writing, networking and developing fresh musical ideas throughout the weekend.
The festival features inspiring workshops from top-class mentors covering topics including songwriting for pitch, transforming real-life stories into powerful songs, creative collaboration and finding fun in the creative process. Returning mentors Keith Burke and SJ McArdle will also host their popular “Song Surgery” sessions on Sunday, helping participants fine-tune their songs with expert feedback and guidance.
Throughout the weekend, attendees can collaborate with fellow writers before performing their new creations at the closing Gala Concert on Sunday evening. One standout song will be selected to receive the prestigious Clare Corrigan Award, including a professional recording session at Jejune Studios with Daniel De Burca.
Saturday Highlights
Saturday begins with registration followed by a packed programme of workshops and creative sessions. Ticket holders can attend two workshops as part of their admission, with plenty of time throughout the day for songwriting and collaboration.
The day concludes with the ever-popular Mentors’ Songwriters-In-The-Round performance in the Barbican Theatre — always one of the most inspirational moments of the festival.
For anyone wanting to continue the music and conversation afterwards, an informal late-evening meetup will take place in Peggy Moores, offering a relaxed chance to network, chat with mentors and maybe even share a few songs.
Sunday Highlights
Sunday focuses on collaboration and completing the songs started the previous day, with additional creative spaces available throughout the Barbican Centre.
From 2pm–4pm, Keith Burke and SJ McArdle will host their Song Surgery sessions, offering valuable feedback and fresh perspectives to help bring each song to life.
Legendary DJ and radio presenter Ian Shipley will also conduct live interviews with participants during the afternoon.
The weekend culminates with the Gala Concert at 4:15pm on Sunday in the Barbican Theatre, where participants perform their newly written songs in front of fellow festival-goers in what has become one of the most exciting and emotional highlights of the event.
Additional Information
- Underground parking is available beside the Barbican Centre.
- Participants are encouraged to bring their own instruments where possible.
- Keyboard facilities will be limited, so piano players are advised to bring their own equipment if needed.
Whether you’re an experienced songwriter or simply looking to spark new creative ideas, this promises to be an unforgettable weekend of music, inspiration and collaboration in the heart of Drogheda.
Tickets here
Daniel de Búrca is an Irish record producer and founder of JeJune Recording Studios, an independent creative space dedicated to supporting emerging and alternative artists. Known for its relaxed and collaborative atmosphere, the studio focuses on capturing authentic performances and helping artists develop their sound outside the traditional major-label environment. Daniel represents a modern generation of Irish producers who value creativity, comfort, and genuine artistic expression over commercial studio polish.
More Info here: https://www.droghedasongwritingfestival.com/
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