Songwriters 'In the Round'

'In the Round' gigs are typically warm, informal and conversational - where artists have the chance to get personal, have fun on stage and let you in on some beloved stories and tales from their lives.

For this Festival special, we welcome three songwriters who have been friends and regular collaborators for over fifteen years - and who are also very fine guitarists.

Matt McGinn is no stranger to the festival and is renowned as one of Northern Ireland’s finest performers and songwriters. Blessed with a terrific voice and a catchy and thought-provoking repertoire, Matt is also a fine fingerstyle player with a growing catalogue of great songs under his belt – most recently showcased in his Behind Every Door album. He has also recently been attracting new followers, performing as support to Paul Brady, and recording a single with the great man – ‘Analog Man in a Digital World’.

Eilidh Patterson first came to prominence in 2009 with the release of the stunning single ‘Still Learning’, and has since carved a niche for herself with a succession of beautifully recorded collections – most recently Safe Place - and a steady touring schedule that has seen her take to the stage in venues in Nashville, in Austin, Texas and across the British Isles – most recently touring as special guest of the great Eddi Reader. She is blessed with a sweet, soulful voice and a superb fingerstyle guitar technique, in service of songs that are wise, witty - and full of heart.

One of our finest songwriters and guitarists, Anthony Toner returns to the festival stage in support of Long Long Way, his 12th collection of original songs. Much in demand for his prowess on electric and acoustic guitar, he has a constant touring and performing schedule as a solo artist, or with bands such as The Ronnie Greer Blues Band and The Boondocks, and (for the last decade) as special guest of the legendary Barbara Dickson on her acoustic tours across the UK and Ireland. In showcasing his own material, you can expect some superb James Taylor-inspired fingerstyle guitar, some great lyrics - and inspired vocal-and-guitar interaction with his fellow performers.