In 2025 SAW will be working with songwriters Gareth Davies-Jones and Bronwen Davies-Jones to tell the stories of those who live, work or play in Shieldfield through song. This project is open to anyone – whether musical or not – who would like to share their experience of life in Shieldfield and/or how they came to be in Shieldfield.

Over the course of 6 half-day workshops (taking place on Mondays in January – March 2025), songwriters Gareth and Bronwen will use music and songwriting to help participants forge observations and responses into lyrics, songs and creative soundscapes. Walk around the area with the artists to capture and record Shieldfield sights and sounds. Talk with them about the history and heritage of this small corner of Newcastle and work with them to see your Shieldfield story transform into rhythm and melody. 

The material written as a result of the sessions will aim to build a musical mosaic of life and community in Shieldfield

There will also be the opportunity to visit a professional recording studio to see the songs captured and the recording process in action. 

Come and join professional songwriters Gareth and Bronwen Davies-Jones to write original songs about Shieldfield using your own stories and experiences – no musical ability required.

For more information email: enquiries@saw-newcastle.org

Gareth and Bronnie are a father and daughter songwriting duo interested in telling stories for music. You can read more about their other projects on www.howaythelasses.com and www.garethdavies-jones.com

FAQs

Can I bring my child with me to sessions?

The sessions will involve a lot of engagement and are aimed at adults. However, if you are struggling for child care, you are welcome to bring your under twos. You will need to commit to supervising them during the sessions and will need to let us know in advance of each session you plan on bringing your child to. 

What do you mean by live, work, or play in Shieldfield?

This means that you can get involved if you:

• Live in Shieldfield
• Work in Shieldfield, in any kind of paid or voluntary work
• Play in Shieldfield. This is a broad term we use to include anyone who spends a lot of time in Shieldfield or at Shieldfield Art Works. Maybe you attend Painting For Fun, Shieldfield Grows or Craft Action Collective – this means you regularly ‘play’ in Shieldfield, and we’d love you to be involved with this project.

Will I have to sing or play an instrument?

No. You just need to come along with ideas and stories.