“What The F*** Do I Do With My Music? Navigating a Musical Career After 50”
Ready for some real talk about making music after 50? Join us for an inspiring and brutally honest conversation with Bernadette Barrett, the powerhouse manager behind some of Ireland’s biggest musical exports including Damien Rice, Lisa Hannigan, and Mahalia. Bernadette began in the business as a concert promoter during which time she promoted David Gray whom she subsequently went to work with as day to day manager for 12 years.
She has a 25+ years working her way up from recording studio receptionist to managing chart-topping artists through festivals, recording studios, tour buses, award ceremonies, and “a million miles” around the world. Bernadette made a bold choice in her early 50s: she stepped away from the traditional industry machine to forge her own path as a creative coach and mentor.
But here’s the twist – she still manages Lisa Hannigan and runs Lisa´s own record label and publisher, proving there’s more than one way to stay connected to music on your terms.
In this energising conversation, we’ll explore the big questions that keep so many of us up at night: What does success actually look like when you’re not trying to become a TikTok star? How do you create meaning with your music when the industry seems designed for 20-somethings? And most importantly – how do you build your own “little tiny industry” that actually fulfills you?
This isn’t about giving up on your dreams or settling for less. It’s about getting excited about the possibilities that exist when you stop trying to fit into someone else’s blueprint and start creating your own. Whether you’re returning to music after raising a family, finally have time to pursue that creative itch, or you’re wondering if it’s “too late” to do something meaningful with your talent – this conversation will leave you feeling empowered and ready to take action.
Come prepared to laugh, think, and maybe even have a few lightbulb moments about what your musical journey could look like from here.
To find out more about Bernadette Barrett: Bernadette Barrett – Executive Coach based in the UK.
Talent Is Timeless is a global community of 30,000+ songwriters aged 50 and over, proving that creativity doesn’t come with an expiry date. Our members connect with like-minded artists, participate in monthly songwriting challenges, attend expert-led masterclasses, and compete in our annual contest—with winners recording at iconic studios like Abbey Road. Whether you’re returning to music after years away or writing the best songs of your life, you’ll find encouragement, feedback, and genuine connection here.