Acoustic Guitar Retreat

Improve your guitar skills and find lasting inspiration in an engaging, five-day retreat.

Under the guidance of an accomplished faculty, you’ll dive deep into fingerstyle guitar techniques and explore topics spanning the spectrum of acoustic guitar—including arranging, composition, music theory, performance tips, and ways to stay inspired. Over the course of the program, you’ll prepare a guitar ensemble piece to perform with your peers at the end-of-session concert. You’ll also enjoy intimate evening recitals featuring our faculty and guest artists.

At the end of the retreat, you’ll walk away with the knowledge and inspiration to continue improving your abilities.

Prerequisites:

You should have at least one year of study on the guitar; should be familiar with either tablature or standard notation; and should possess a basic understanding of chord structure.

Dates

July 28 - Aug. 1, 2025

Early Registration Fee

$626

Fee increases after April 1

On-Campus Lodging

Participants can enjoy 10% off at the Stone Hotel and Cottages.

The schedule for the 2025 Acoustic Guitar Retreat will be announced closer to the start of the program. To get a sense of the format, view the schedule from last year below.

Required Supplies:
Attendees must supply their own acoustic guitar with a protective case or gig bag. A steel-string acoustic guitar is preferred but a nylon string “classical” guitar will also work. Attendees should also have a capo, clip-on chromatic tuner, and an extra set of strings.

Additional Optional Supplies:
Guitar stand, pencils, a notebook for notes and a folder for handouts.

See our registration and cancellation policy.

K-12 educators in Michigan can earn 16 SCECH clock hours by attending the Acoustic Guitar Retreat.