Following on from my last post’s introduction to my Churchill Fellowship research project into Songwriting Retreats across the USA, here are my video diaries…

Retreat Diary #1: Judy Stakee Songwriting Retreats, Tennessee

It’s been fascinating and rejuvenating to spend this past week at the Just Stakes Songwriting Retreat in Nashville as a part of my Churchill Fellowship research. I’ve had the opportunity to experience Judy’s expert facilitation, co-write 4 full songs, meet vocal, guitar and songwriting practitioners, and be part of a wonderfully held community. Judy’s holistic methodology really resonated with me and I’ve been inspired beyond my expectations to develop my songcraft and the way I create spaces for others to do so.

Retreat Diary #2: Cacapehon Recording & Songwriting Retreat, West Virginia

First stop on my exploration of songwriting retreats… a week filled with loads of wholesome conversations about community and connection through music, both from hobbyists and career musicians too… oh and there was regular bingo!

Retreat Diary #3: Brave Voice Writing & Singing, Kansas

So this time, a writing and singing retreat in Kansas expertly facilitated by the immensely talented writer and poet Caryn Mirriam-Goldberg and first class musician Kelley Hunt. I’ve been totally blown away by the stories and creativity of the participants, a total joy to be welcomed into this special community and connect with such wonderful souls.

Retreat Diary #4: Andrea Stolpe Songwriting Retreat, California

Up into the mountains for the next stop on my research trip… the Andrea Stolpe Songwriting Retreat. 🏔️ I’m left with lots of ideas for new songs that are brewing, and more reflections on how communities are formed at these special kind of creative gatherings. Half way through my trip now, and taking a few extra days in California for some other musical explorations (more on that later!).

Retreat Diary #5: Songwriter Soiree, Oregon

Totally blown away by the open community and supportive network in Portland surrounding NW Songwriter Soiree Retreats after attending the Songs in the City event this week. It included a fantastic chord workshop from Jeffery Pepper Rogers and a celebratory open stage with a song from all the talented folk that came along.

Retreat Diary #6: Miles of Music, New Hampshire

Miles of Music, take a bow! What a finale to this once in a lifetime trip. The detail, consideration and commitment to a diverse and inspiring community was a pleasure to be part of. So many new favourite songs, friends and memories.

Overview: Songwriting Retreats Project with the Churchill Fellowship

Landed back in my van in Cornwall and reflecting back on my surreal time travelling the USA to explore how communities are formed on songwriting retreats. I’m so passionate about the role music creation can play in tackling disconnection, increasing empathy and understanding, and bringing people together. This research project has been a dream come true, thanks to the Churchill Fellowship.

I want to give a big shout out to all of the top quality residential musical experiences I was able to research, and the folks I met there:
✨Judy Stakee Songwriting Retreat
🎤Cacapehon Recording and Songwriting Retreat
📚 Brave Voice Writing and Singing Retreat
⭐️ Andrea Stolpe Songwriting Retreat
🎶 Songwriter Soiree Songs in the City
🏕️ Miles of Music

I’ll be putting together a report and recourses to share with other music facilitators and workshop producers in due course. Check back here, or drop me a message with your email if you’d like to get on my mailing list so you don’t miss it. ✉️