Songwriting Retreat


A woman singing on a stage

Generate new ideas and receive personalized feedback as you learn songwriting techniques, write original songs, and collaborate with peers.

Develop your songwriting skills and find inspiration in a supportive retreat for songwriters of all levels.

You’ll craft your own songs and partner with other songwriters to explore the joyous and generative process of co-writing. Throughout the retreat, you’ll be inspired by thought-provoking writing prompts and receive personalized feedback on your songs from Interlochen’s world-class songwriting faculty.

Our accomplished instructors will also guide you as you dive deeper into songwriting techniques. You'll delve into lyric writing, learn how to build compelling harmonies, and discover your own unique voice as an artist. You’ll also learn how to use different points of view to heighten the emotional impact of your songs.

The program also includes opportunities to share your songs at open mic nights and other informal performances.

Dates

June 6 - 8, 2025

Registration Fee

$395

On-Campus Lodging

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

Required Supplies: 
Guitarists: Attendees must supply their own acoustic guitar with a protective case or gig bag. Attendees should also have a capo, clip-on chromatic tuner and an extra set of strings.

Pianists: Pianos (acoustic or electronic) will be available to you throughout the retreat weekend.    

Additional Optional Supplies:
Guitar stand, pencils, a notebook or laptop/tablet for note taking.  

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

Meet the Faculty

Courtney Kaiser-Sandler

Courtney Kaiser-Sandler

Associate Director of Contemporary Music and Collaborative Projects; Instructor of Singer-Songwriter

Joshua Davis

Joshua Davis

Director of Popular Music; Instructor of Singer-Songwriting

Questions? Contact us.

Email: college@interlochen.org 

Phone: 231.276.7340 

Discover more programs for adult artists

Sign up to download our 2025 Adult Arts Program Guide and receive new program announcements.

Interlochen College of Creative Arts student paints en plein air