I can help you extract the key information from the FIRST STAGES program PDF. Here’s a clean text version of the content, organized for easy use on a web page:
ARE YOU AGED 16-25 AND HAVE AN INTEREST IN WRITING SONGS?
Join us for this new programme!
What is FIRST STAGES?
FIRST STAGES is a holistic music programme that will nurture new and emerging songwriters through workshops, online sessions, and a development programme.
In the development programme, we’ll support 12 songwriters to bring your songs to life through a residential writing week, 1-1 tuition, recording and music internships. It will focus on the production of an album and nurture performance skills through unique opportunities with our partners, the Belladrum Tartan Heart Music Festival and award-winning live music venue, Green Note in London.
Throughout the programme we’ll offer free online sessions led by professional songwriters and industry experts to support your journey in writing songs.
Who is it for?
For anyone aged 16-25 (up to 30 if you have lived experience of the care system) living in Scotland who is interested in songwriting and experiences isolation or have less access to making songs. No musical knowledge, instrument or experience necessary, but if you have some that’s great as well!
How can I take part?
Register your interest for one of our introductory workshops led by our tutors, Michele Stodart and Boo Hewerdine, happening across Scotland, two near Inverness in July, two workshops in Glasgow in August, one in Edinburgh as well as one in London and one online session.
To join the development programme for 12 young songwriters, you can register your interest from late July onwards.
When and how long is the development programme?
This is an 8-month programme starting in December which will culminate in a performance at Belladrum 2026, next year in July.
Can’t take part in the whole development programme?
We’ll also be offering a monthly online space with FIRST STAGES tutors for anyone who is interested in developing and continuing work. This will include writing prompts, looking at melody, lyric and opportunities to share your work in a nurturing and supportive online space.
WORKSHOPS
- 30th July: Inverness, Eden Court
- 31st July: Belladrum, Tartan Heart Festival
- 4th August: London, Green Note
- 20th and 21st August: Glasgow, Glad Café
- 22nd September: Edinburgh, Out of the Blue Drill Hall
YOUR TUTORS
- Michele Stodart
- Boo Hewerdine
Contact Information: Pauline and Millie: youngwriters@moniackmhor.org.uk
More info: www.moniackmhor.org.uk/youth/first-stages
Partners: Moniack Mhor, Youth Music Initiative, Creative Scotland, Alba | Chruthachail, Scottish Government.