10.30am – Noon

This workshop welcomes new and experienced poets keen to explore the abiding influence of music on poetry. Whether you’re a poet seeking to refine the lyricism of your ‘voice’, or a songwriter keen to extend the range of your lyrics, here’s an opportunity to try out and discuss new approaches within a friendly, supportive atmosphere.
We’ll ask what poetry can learn from the song lyric, and vice versa; reminding ourselves how the “sullen art” is rooted in song, from the dancing roots of metrical forms to the personal jazz of free verse.
Reflecting on the musical qualities of some well-known poems, the workshop will end with a guided writing exercise. You’ll leave with the first draft of a poem which reveals – through subject, rhythm or form – the intrinsic presence of music in poetry.

Paul Henry is one of the UK’s leading poets. The author of nine poetry collections, he’s also a songwriter. Paul has tutored for many years at writing centres and within the community. A former Creative Writing lecturer at the University of South Wales, he’s guest-edited Poetry Wales and presented arts programmes for BBC Radio Wales, Radio 3 and Radio 4. Paul has performed his poems and songs at festivals in Europe, the USA and in India. His latest collection is As If To Sing. www.paulhenrypoet.co.uk

*Ticket price includes booking fee