Manchester is one of the cultural hubs of the UK, especially when it comes to contemporary poetry. From the “Bard of Salford” to poet laureates, the city has links with many different poets and this has helped to inspire an incredible literature scene in the city.
In this guide, we’re exploring some of the poetry classes in Manchester, and different places where you can get into the arts scene, both in Manchester and the surrounding area. There are traditional education options like universities, but not everybody goes down this path when learning how to write. It is possible that you can learn through private classes, workshops, and poetry groups.
Poets From Manchester
There has been a lot of growth in the Manchester arts scene in recent years, including within the world of poetry. Some of the most influential and well-known poets of recent years have come from the region.
Tony Walsh (Longfella)
A top modern poet from Manchester. He has a huge online presence and is one of the “rock and roll poets” from the region. You may remember hearing about Walsh when he performed an emotional poem called "This is the Place" at a vigil for victims of the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017. He wrote the poem about the tragic events that shook the city.
Lemn Sissay
Sissay was born to an Ethiopian family and lived in Wigan and then Manchester. He is a poet, playwright, and broadcaster who has become well-known for his compelling spoken word performances. Sissay was honoured by the local university when he became chancellor of the University of Manchester. He even wrote a poem called “Inspire and Be Inspired” as part of his appointment.
Carol Ann Duffy
Carol Ann Duffy isn’t originally from Manchester, but may be considered as an honourary Mancunian. Duffy served as the UK's Poet Laureate from 2009 to 2019. Hailing from Glasgow, she has strong ties to the city and has been a significant influence on its poetry scene.
For those looking to learn poetry, Duffy might be an important figure as she features on the BBC’s Maestro programme of learning.
https://www.bbcmaestro.com/courses/carol-ann-duffy/writing-poetry
John Cooper Clarke
Cooper Clarke may have instantly jumped into your head when you think of poets from Manchester. A performance poet known for his rapid-fire delivery and sharp wit. He emerged during the punk and new wave era and is often referred to as the "Bard of Salford.”
Cooper Clarke has had a lot of his poetry put to music, including efforts from Arctic Monkeys in recent years. He’s a cultural figure who can be seen on TV screens regularly too, even appearing as a guest on Countdown.
Learning Poetry in Manchester
Aside from traditional university courses, which we will cover below, there are some other ways that people can dip their toe into poetry, enjoy the art form and learn poetry in Manchester. People travel from cities like Liverpool and aspiring poets from Leeds may come to Manchester to learn their craft.
Manchester Poetry Library
Manchester Poetry Library is a part of the Metropolitan University, but it is open to all. You don’t have to be a member of the university to go and enjoy the poetry for free. On top of this, there are a lot of events that take place at the poetry library.
As well as offering regular events there is a learning programme in place, and this includes things like incubator schemes. Currently, a poets of colour incubator is one of the key parts of their educational offering:
It is described as “a 12-month programme offering mentoring, change agency opportunities and creative development to three talented and emerging poets of colour, of all ages with a lower limit of 18, living in the North of England at a crucial stage of their practice.”
The Poetry School Manchester
The Poetry School serves the whole of the UK but it is based in Manchester. The organisation runs a range of courses, workshops, and events around the city, centred around poetry.
They often have courses suitable for various skill levels, from beginners to more advanced poets. Some of the events and workshops take part in the Friend’s Meeting House, such as a recent course exploring ‘poetry and place’ hosted by Edmund Prestwich. They’ve also seen Saturday Sessions for beginner poets and aspiring poets that are held within the Manchester Art Gallery.
Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) Writing School
This is one of the first universities to offer short courses and programmes that aren’t part of formal education. Some very interesting poets are involved and there are regular opportunities to get involved.
MMU's Writing School periodically offers poetry workshops, readings, and events. Keep an eye on their creative writing programs and events for opportunities to engage with poetry.
Manchester Literature Festival
A festival in Manchester, you just know it is going to be fun. While it is not likely to provide everything you need to learn to become a great poet, the festival is packed with literary activities. The annual festival typically features poetry workshops, readings, and performances. It's a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the literary scene and learn from established poets.
Universities in Manchester
Many people looking for poetry courses in Manchester as part of their education, and many universities offer this.
University of Manchester
The University of Manchester's Centre for New Writing offers various programs and courses in creative writing, including poetry. They often host readings, workshops, and events featuring established authors and poets.
The university offers a Master's program in Creative Writing, which includes the opportunity to specialize in poetry. This program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in writing techniques and the chance to develop their own creative work.
Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU)
Manchester Writing School. MMU's Manchester Writing School is renowned for its creative writing programs. They offer a wide range of courses, including undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Creative Writing, with a focus on various genres, including poetry.
MMU's MA in Creative Writing allows students to explore different forms of creative writing, including poetry. The program emphasizes both the craft and critical analysis of creative writing.
University of Salford, Manchester
Salford and Manchester are linked in a unique way. The University of Salford is an option for anyone in the region who wants to learn how to create stunning poetry or learn other forms of writing.
The University of Salford offers a Creative Writing course that takes place over three years and is open to local and international students.
“Podcaster. Journalist. Novelist. Poet. Screenwriter. Whatever kind of writer you want to be, on this course you’ll gain the tools and training you need to take the first step in your professional writing career.”
The University of Salford has an array of very impressive and influential staff. You can check out their English faculty here.
Private Poetry Classes in Manchester
Learning poetry can be a very personal experience. If you’re showing people your own creative work then there is every chance that you will feel nervous or embarrassed, especially in a group setting.
It doesn't matter if you are based in Birmingham, London, or anywhere else in the UK and learning poetry.
Private poetry lessons can be a way to avoid having to share your personal writing with a lot of people. It can also provide a focused learning experience that can be tailored to an individual's specific needs and goals. Unlike group classes, where the curriculum is designed for a wider range of students, private lessons provide the opportunity for in-depth exploration of the student's unique strengths and also pinpoint areas of potential improvement. The one-on-one interaction with an experienced poet or creative writing tutor can make all the difference.
Superprof can connect you to a number of different tutors throughout Manchester and the surrounding area. There are many experienced professionals who can offer a flexible way to learn and tailored classes for your own needs.
The extra flexibility can be particularly beneficial for those with busy schedules or specific time constraints. Additionally, private lessons often encourage a more open and comfortable learning environment, where students might feel more at ease sharing their creative ideas, experimenting with different writing techniques, and discussing their own favorite poets and other literary influences. It’s a creative environment for aspiring poets.
Manchester Poetry: A Thriving Scene
Manchester stakes a claim for being the most active scene in the whole country. The thriving arts scene continues to grow, and Manchester's poetry scene is known for its diversity of voices and perspectives. Poets from various backgrounds and communities contribute to the amazing poetic landscape, reflecting the attitude and nature of the city.
Visiting Manchester provides many opportunities to see performance poetry and spoken word. They have a strong presence in Manchester. Many poets regularly perform their work at open mic nights, poetry slams and other festivals. You may even be able to see John Cooper Clarke or another of the Mancunian legends perform.
For those who are looking to learn the art of poetry, there are many options in the fine city of Manchester, as well as private tuition from Superprof professionals.
Enjoyed this article? Leave a rating!
Loading...
