THE inaugural Go West Songwriting Retreat, hosted by Donegal singer-songwriter Maria McCormack, has been hailed a resounding success after welcoming 22 songwriters from across Ireland for a weekend of creativity, collaboration and connection at Corcreggan Mill, Dunfanaghy.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Wild Atlantic Way, with panoramic views stretching towards Tory Island, the retreat offered participants the opportunity to step away from daily life, immerse themselves in songwriting and reconnect with their creativity in a supportive and nurturing environment.
Over the course of the weekend, songwriters of all ages and experience levels gathered at the historic Corcreggan Mill to write, collaborate, perform and share stories. What unfolded was far more than a songwriting workshop.
“People arrived as strangers and left as friends,” said retreat founder Maria McCormack.
“The goal was to create a space where songwriters could slow down, feel supported and give themselves permission to create. What happened exceeded anything I could have imagined.”
Justin McGuirk, Mary Dunne and Ger Jennings.
The weekend began with a special visit to Clubeo at Leo’s Tavern, the first gathering there since the late Moya Brennan’s passing.
Saturday focused on songwriting, collaboration and creative exploration, with participants finding inspiration throughout the mill’s gardens, quiet corners and communal spaces. The day culminated in an intimate song-sharing session in Corcreggan’s Piano Bar.
On Sunday, participants gathered at Patsy Dan’s Outback in Dunfanaghy to perform songs written and developed during the retreat, celebrating a weekend of creativity in front of fellow writers and newly formed friends.
Maire Carr, Bridget O’Boyle, Jennifer Stratton and Jacqueline McKay.
The retreat was enhanced by The Donegal Chef, Sasha Coen, whose wholesome meals quickly became one of the most talked-about highlights of the weekend.
Participants repeatedly described the experience as transformative.
Many spoke of arriving with self-doubt and leaving with renewed confidence in their songwriting, performing and creative abilities. Others highlighted the rare opportunity to spend uninterrupted time with like-minded artists in a supportive and judgement-free environment.
For Maria McCormack, the retreat’s greatest success was creating a genuine community.
“Songwriting can often be a solitary pursuit,” she said.
“What happened over the weekend reminded all of us that creativity flourishes when people feel safe, encouraged and connected. The friendships formed were every bit as important as the songs that were written.”
Following overwhelming feedback from participants, plans are already underway for future Go West Songwriting Retreats in Donegal in October and November.
Owen Curran on guitar during the retreat.
Some of those who took part in the Go West Songwriting Retreat in Dunfanaghy.
Enjoying the music at Patsy Dan’s Outback.
Frankie McGreevy, Maria McCormack, Laura May and Tara Brigid McGreevy.