Songwriters’ group returning to village

A well-established musical group is making a return to Stonehouse.

The Lanarkshire Songwriters’ Group was formed in 1997, with writers and musicians first meeting in “The Cave” in Lanark.

Members then moved to Cartland Bridge, then the Cross Keys in Stonehouse before settling at the Crossford Inn in the Clyde Valley.

However, the group is on the move once more, and will now be based in the Auld Cross Cafe in Stonehouse.

Over the years, participating musicians have produced several CDS recounting themes associated with Lanarkshire’s historical and social past.

As well as participating in performances across the county and beyond, members have also been involved in working with the communities and school providing songwriting and musical workshops supported by the Scottish Arts Council, local authorities, the Clyde and Avon Valley Partnership and the New Makars Trust.

The group’s John Young said: “As a central location for travelling participants, young and old, the cafe offers a warm welcome for participants to share stories, experiences, advice and knowledge of songwriting in encouraging one another and those seeking to improve their skills as musicians and the craft of performance.

“At these meetings professional, semi-professional and new songwriters are encouraged to participate in musical projects and learn from one another’s experiences of songwriting and performing in a wide genre of styles including contemporary, blues, country and traditional.

“In addition non-songwriting musicians are welcome who wish to accompany, collaborate or write music in support of the groups activities.

“If you have an interest in songwriting and would like to learn more about the groups activities, then come along and share your songs and experiences of songwriting.

“Equally, visitors are welcome to come along and listen to the evening’s discussion/songs and enjoy a coffee too.”

The group meet in the cafe every second and fourth Monday, September to May, at 7.30pm. For more, visit www.lanarkshiresongwriters. co.uk or find Lanarkshire Songwriters on Facebook.