Learn from Scotland’s top songwriters and fellow music lovers in an inspiring coastal location
Our Mentors
Bobby and James are the best songwriting partnership we could hope for. Both Scottish music legends in their own right.
James Grant
James Grant is simply one of the most renowned and respected musicians Scotland has ever produced. His career began in the early eighties with Friends Again. Although short-lived, their influence was huge, helping to define the emerging sound of the Scottish bands that followed them.
It was in Love and Money that James found more widespread recognition; four albums, working with an array of legendary producers such as Gary Katz (Steely Dan) and Tom Dowd (Rod Stewart, Eric Clapton, Aretha Franklin) several hit singles, a world-wide following and silver discs in the UK helped seal his reputation as one of the best songwriters in the country.
He has shared the stage and worked with such luminaries as Donald Fagen (Steely Dan), BB King, Pete Seeger, Nanci Griffiths, U2, Jeff Pocaro (Toto), Tim Schmidt (The Eagles), Tina Turner, Tom Verlaine.
He has released 6 solo albums and continues recording and performing.
Robert Hodgens
Scottish songwriter, guitarist and band leader from Glasgow. A.k.a. Bobby Bluebell, he was an integral part of the Glasgow scene in the early 80s. Close friend of The Pastels, Edwyn Collins and the Postcard Records crew.
Groups include Best Picture, Fat Cops, Paul Quinn And The Independent Group, The Bluebells, The Chain Gang, The Poems
This is Argyll's Secret Coast
This is where our songwriters are inspired to write their wonderful songs.
Masterclasses
2-night Weekend Retreat, 1st - 3rd March 2025
All-inclusive pricing.
£1095 per person for luxury twin en-suite.
£1395 per person for luxury double en-suite for single occupancy
£100 EARLY-BIRD DISCOUNT + FREE LIMITED EDITION SCS T-SHIRT
(Payment plans available)
- Masterclass delivered by Scotland’s top songwriters
- Combination of group tuition, songwriting mentoring and collaborating with fellow songwriters
- Inspiring shorefront location with opportunities to explore the local area
- Weekend retreat starts Friday with welcome brunch through to Sunday afternoon
- All meals included from great local, fresh food producers
- Optional Thursday early arrival (extra charge)
- Optional Sunday night 'chill out' (extra charge)
- Demo recording of your song with accompaniment from James/Bobby
- Last night showcase of your new song – perform yourself, your mentor can perform or fellow song writers
- Video can be added to our YouTube Channel for easy sharing
- Lots of videos and photos of the event
As a Secret Coast Songwriter you will be invited to perform at our annual charity concert in Glasgow.
You will also have the chance to have your song featured on our new album series of songs written at the Masterclasses.
The Venue
Secret Coast Songwriter Masterclasses are held in 5-star luxury at The Hollies, a stunning house with a long musical heritage on Argyll's Secret Coast. The Hollies is has 8 bedrooms and lots of social space and inspiring views from every room. Set in the middle of the coastal village of Tighnabruaich. The bedrooms are named after the owner's favourite Scottish bands of the '80s. Find out more about the house here.
Reviews
"This was pretty special. Great people, great tunes and such a wonderful place. Totally buzzing with how it all went." - James
"It was one of the best things i’ve ever been involved in. The group were a magic bunch of people" - Bobby
"Booking myself onto the SecretCoast songwriting weekend was a massive step out of my comfort zone and definitely a leap of faith. Both you and Bobby had reassured me it'd be fine, Bobby even said 'you'll be amazed at what you can achieve'. And he was right. This magic formula you've created means, no matter your level of songwriting and musical experience, you'll come away with something you're proud of, as well as a group of wonderful new friends." - Liz
"An amazing experience with amazing people in an amazing venue. James and Bobby just make music better. I’ll never forget it!" - Gerry
"First step, one feels at home, an upgraded home though! Comfort is the main word, each room has its own atmosphere, is very well equipped and decorated with great taste and with attention to tiny details. Attended the Secret Coast Songwriters retreat. I can only recommend this to anyone that fancies music and songwriting. You'll learn from inspiring people and songwriting legends.. a dream come true thanks to Graeme and Lorraine!" - Sandrine- Previous EventsReflections and images from previous masterclassesI had been pondering the idea of a concert of Secret Coast Songwriters for a while and had...Is it really 12 months to the weekend since we ran the first Songwriting Masterclass? If the...We had that "difficult 2nd album" feeling about running the 2nd Masterclass. Would anyone buy it?...
- ContactIf you are interested in attending one of our Masterclasses or want to find out more, please send us an enquiry below.
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