Happy New Year! If, like us, you’re almost back to normal now that we’re half way through January, then here’s some good news… Late last year we were fortunate enough to be invited to work with the Francis W Reckitt Arts Trust, a wonderful organisation that you can learn more about at this link.

We gratefully acknowledge the financial support received from the Francis W Reckitt Arts Trust as a resource to offer opportunities to eligible PRS members, (those who would not otherwise be able to afford to do so), to enjoy time away from home in order to rest, recuperate, research, work on their music and songs (alone or in collaboration), rehearse, perform or simply have a short break.

Please note that our grant will only be used to cover board and lodging, it cannot go towards travel, studio hire or equipment purchase. Do get in touch with us to find out more and to apply. You can call on 020 3741 4067 or email us at [email protected].

Should this be suitable for you, there are a number of options that could be applicable, whether it’s a local retreat for yourself to perhaps write, a holiday space with your band or others to try new songs or even a trip to somewhere more peaceful than your own home in order to work on your writing – whatever it may be do get in touch to learn more.

You may also want to consider the London Songwriters Retreat, held in Buxton.  This particular retreat consists of co-writing and solo-writing briefs, songshares with feedback, songcraft presentations, country walks, country pubs, possibly an open mic night and has been described as a “magical songwriting holiday break.” 2017 will be the seventh retreat for London Songwriters and in the twelve years it’s been running there are over 70 writers who have given enthusiastic testimonials.

We’re told it will be minimal-effort self-catering and accommodation is two to each single-gender shared room for up to twelve writers. Their cost is an early-bird rate of £359 for accommodation, songwriting facilitation and home-cooked food. It runs from 4pm Monday 27th March to 10am Monday 3rd April but you may wish to tailor your departure to fit in with your own commitments. The converted barn is near Buxton, which is accessible by train from London Euston via Stockport or, if driving, it’s just beyond Derby off the motorways – beautiful accommodation in lovely picture-postcard countryside. For more information on this particular retreat, take a look at the London Songwriters website.

If this option should appeal, then help is available towards a major part of the cost. Should you wish us to consider alternative short breaks, as mentioned above, then then do please contact us with details either by telephone 020 3741 4067 or e-mail [email protected].

Other important points to note are as follows:

• You must be a PRS member to apply for this grant.
• This scheme is open to professional songwriters, composers and musicians.
• Applications for this scheme will be considered up to March 31st 2017.
• There will be an application form to fill in, and if you receive funding there will also be an evaluation form at the end of your stay.