Anyone who has ever wandered through the music bars and honky tonks of Nashville has probably come across this special phenomenon: the songwriter’s circle. Several singer-songwriters sit in a circle, playing stripped-down versions of their songs and sharing the stories behind them. For the audience, for each other and with each other.

It offers an intimate glimpse into the inner world of the artists: honest, open and without any frills. Three chords and the truth in its purest form. And of course, Rotterdam Bluegrass Festival would not be Rotterdam Bluegrass Festival if we did not give it our own twist.

The Women’s Songwriter Circle at Rotterdam Bluegrass Festival is hosted by Celia Woodsmith, frontwoman of Della Mae. Alongside performing stripped-down versions of her own songs, she invites fellow singer-songwriters Kaia Kater and Cat Clyde to do the same. Together, they will listen to each other’s songs and exchange stories about their inspiration, struggles, highlights and experiences as women musicians within bluegrass.

To close this special gathering, the artists will perform one final song together with the Gen Z Bluegrass Choir.

Expect an afternoon full of connection, emotion and wonder. A very special moment to be part of.

Celia Woodsmith will play her own full-band show with Della Mae on Saturday. Kaia Kater also plays her own set on Saturday, and Cat Clyde will return to the stage with her band for a full set on Sunday after the Women’s Songwriter Circle.