• Songwriting Masterclass Weekends

    James Grant and Robert Hodgens (Bobby Bluebell) are the best songwriting partnership we could hope for. Both are Scottish music legends in their own right and they combine brilliantly to mentor our songwriters to create truly memorable songs.

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    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.

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    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

  • Masterclasses

    2-night Weekend Retreat, 28th Feb - 2nd March 2025

    All-inclusive pricing.

    £1095 per person for luxury twin en-suite.

    £1395 per person for luxury double en-suite for single occupancy

     

    Register interest below

    (Payment plans available)

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    • 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

    As a Secret Coast Songwriter you will be invited to perform at our annual charity concert in Glasgow.

     

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    • ​Saturday 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
    • All meals included from great local, fresh food producers
    • Optional Thursday early arrival (extra charge)
    • Optional Sunday night 'chill out' (extra charge) 

    You will also have the chance to have your song featured on our new album series of songs written at the Masterclasses.

     

     

  • 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