Career Songwriter

One really wonderful way to continue honing our craft and staying inspired is to attend a songwriting retreat. If you’ve never been, songwriting retreats, camps, or conferences can open up a world of creativity and networking opportunities that nurture our craft and our spirits.

There are many retreats to choose from, some in the backdrop of white water rafting in the Grand Canyon, some as long weekends portaging in northern Minnesota, and still others as single day experiences at a college or university. There is one retreat in particular that I’d like to talk about, called The Swannanoa Gathering, Contemporary Folk Week, held at Warren Wilson College in Asheville, NC.

Throughout the summer, The Swannanoa Gathering offers several retreats all focusing on a different style of music and culture. The retreat for songwriters that I highly recommend is Contemporary Folk Week, held this July 27th thru August 2nd. Last year I was honored to be an instructor at the camp, and spend 6 glorious days surrounded by songwriters and performers who regularly take one week out of their schedules each year to take part in this event. What makes the retreat so special is the opportunity to connect with other writers outside of the fabric of the industry. During this time, I couldn’t help but to return to the reason why I began writing songs in the first place – because I simply love it.

Participants can choose from several courses offered by esteemed writers and performers in the industry who have been invited to share their insights. During the days you’ll find yourself bulking up on your tools for the craft, while evenings are spent listening and sharing songs in the round with instructors and other participants. And all of it happens among the beautiful green landscapes of a quaint North Carolina town.

If you’re looking for a chance to get away this summer, to focus on your craft just a little more, or rekindle some excitement lost among the busyness of everyday life, take a moment to check out this retreat. It truly was an experience I will remember for a lifetime.

One really wonderful way to continue honing our craft and staying inspired is to attend a songwriting retreat. If you’ve never been, songwriting retreats, camps, or conferences can open up a world of creativity and networking opportunities that nurture our craft and our spirits.
The Swannanoa Gathering: Contemporary Folk Week

On staff this year are: Vance Gilbert, David Wilcox, Peter Mulvey, Kate Campbell, Brooks Williams, Cliff Eberhardt, Anais Mitchell, Kyler England, Siobahn Quinn, Ray Chesna