Space to create: Songs and stories from Pennard House

With many of their individual projects now coming to fruition, we explore the experience through the words and insights of the musicians who attended. 

Led by Chris Difford – co-founder of iconic British band Squeeze, Help Musicians Ambassador and Principal Ambassador for Music Minds Matter – the retreat offered a rare opportunity for emerging and mid-career artists to focus solely on their craft. Hosted in the stunning Pennard House, a Grade II-listed manor nestled near the Glastonbury Festival site, this fully funded experience was made possible by Help Musicians.

Each morning began with a creative brief designed to shake up habits and push boundaries. Afternoons were spent co-writing songs in rotating groups, followed by intimate evening performances where participants shared their day’s work. The structure encouraged openness and spontaneity – two qualities often hard to access in the high pressure world of professional music-making.

For Lydiah, a Liverpool-born artist, the retreat marked a turning point. ​“It was just such an amazing experience to just be in a room with other musicians… it felt like a sacred space,” she reflected. After a recent period of self-doubt, Lydiah said the retreat offered something deeper than a creative boost – it changed her outlook. ​“It’s been life-changing… where I am currently career wise. It’s given me a newfound confidence.”

That sentiment was echoed by Maxime Elliot, a French-born, Bristol-based pop-soul artist, who described the retreat as a ​“major life event.” For Maxime, the week wasn’t just about writing songs – it was about reshaping his identity as a musician. ​“The environment was ego-free and experimental. It gave me space to rediscover music on my terms, without pressure,” he said.

Ruven, a London-based artist originally from Virginia, USA, shared how the retreat cracked open new ways of thinking. ​“To be somewhere totally removed from my normal lifestyle… with only one goal – to write songs – was incredibly rare and therapeutic,” he explained. ​“I feel like I got a lot better at songwriting in a very short period of time.”

The atmosphere of trust and vulnerability was perhaps the retreat’s most lasting gift. South London R&B artist, Marnie Taylor, described the experience as ​“more than the music,” comparing it to ​“an emotional check-in.” For her, the week redefined collaboration, introducing the idea that songwriting can be a healing, collective act.

Music’s power to connect extended far beyond genres and styles. For Enla Arboleda, originally from Colombia, the retreat was a reminder that music can transcend culture and language. ​“Making music can be very personal and sometimes lonely, but it’s also a way to connect with others and share stories,” he said. ​“Music is not only about the notes or instruments – it’s about how I communicate my experiences. The songwriting process is a way to channel my feelings and create something meaningful out of life’s challenges.”

Beyond the emotional impact of the retreat, Cotswolds-based pop songwriter Bryonii emphasised the impact of coming away creatively energised but also more aware of the challenges ahead. ​“It confirmed that I want to be in a room with amazing vocalists, write songs, and feel in my element.” The gap between such immersive opportunities and the daily grind reminded her of the urgent need for ongoing support.

This is where we come in. Help Musicians covered the retreat costs for each participant, all of whom had previously benefitted from our help before applying for the retreat, through mentorship via our Co-Pilot scheme, funding or health and welfare support. Our commitment to artist development goes far beyond one-off support – we exist to nurture sustainable careers, creative confidence and peer networks that last long into the future. 

For musicians navigating an often isolating and unpredictable industry, Help Musicians provides more than financial support, we offer belief – that a life in music is both possible and highly fulfilling. Every now and then, a little bit of guidance, a lot of enthusiasm and the opportunity to make new connections is just what’s needed.