Rising Artists Gather in P.E.I. for Urgent Songwriting Retreat

UPDATE: In a powerful testament to the roots of the music industry, rising artists from across Canada are gathering RIGHT NOW in Tignish, Prince Edward Island, to participate in an intimate songwriting retreat. This event, occurring from October 20-22, 2023, is a crucial platform for emerging talents to connect with fans and hone their craft.

WHY THIS MATTERS: In an era dominated by digital streaming and large-scale concerts, these rural gatherings highlight the importance of personal connections and grassroots support. Country rocker Devin Cooper, who traveled from Calgary, emphasizes, “This is where it all starts. You can’t play big shows and big arenas unless you do the groundwork and you build fans in these little spots across the country.”

Located in a town of just around 700 people, this retreat is hosting 12 artists, including the hometown favorite Ben Chase, known for his hit “Saltwater Cowboy.” Chase is facilitating the retreat, which pairs singer-songwriters during the day and features live performances each night. These intimate shows draw a dedicated crowd of a few dozen, providing a first test for new songs away from the pressures of larger venues.

LAST NIGHT’S SHOW: According to Chase, the audience was exceptionally engaged. “It was like they were experts at it. Nobody even spoke a word. You could hear a pin drop,” he noted. Each artist performs just four songs, allowing for a deeper connection with the audience.

Paige Penney, a young singer-songwriter from St. John’s, Newfoundland, is also part of this unique gathering. At just 20 years old, she has already made waves with her first Top 40 hit on Canadian country radio and multiple nominations for the MusicNL Awards. Penney reflects on the significance of these intimate performances, stating, “Seeing the audience and how attentive they were to every lyric, they just appreciated the music so much.”

Despite challenges such as spotty cell reception, the connections made at this retreat are palpable. The artists involved are united by a shared goal: to cultivate their music careers through personal interactions and local support. Penney advises aspiring musicians to “tap into your local community,” highlighting the enduring relevance of grassroots strategies in today’s music landscape.

WHAT’S NEXT: As these artists forge connections and create new music in Tignish, the hope is that the songs born in this small town will resonate far beyond its borders. The event not only serves as a launching pad for their careers but also reaffirms the vital role of community in the music industry.

Stay tuned for more updates as these artists share their stories and songs, proving that even in a digital age, the magic of music still thrives in intimate settings.