Is the “Mountain” Songwriting Retreat focused on mountain or folk music?
Absolutely not. It is for people working in any genre of music. That said, our featured instructors Dave Nachmanoff and Michelle Shocked are both award winning songwriters known around the world primarily for his work in contemporary folk and adult contemporary music, so this retreat may appeal more to writers looking to dive deeper into those styles. Ronan Chris Murphy’s background is incredibly diverse and he regularly works in everything from folk music to pop and rock. He recently produced and co-wrote on a hard rock project that debuted on the Billboard charts. Liz Redwing’s work in music publishing and A&R was heavily involved in rock, pop and rap.
What are the dates?
We have not finalized 2022 dates for the Mountain Songwriting Retreat, but the dates of the special “Song & Sound Retreat” are September 19 – September 24, 2020. On August 19th check-in begins at 3pm, orientation is at 5pm, followed by dinner at 6pm (there will be a table reserved for all attendees). The Retreat ends after lunch on Thursday, September 24.
Getting to the Mountain Songwriting Retreat
The Retreat is held at Capon Springs and Farms Resort on the very eastern edge of West Virginia. It is 90 minutes from Washington Dulles International Airport. There is no public transportation to the resort. The address is 3818 Capon Springs Road Capon Springs, WV 26823. As we get closer to the retreat date we will have a way for attendees to connect if they want to look at ride share options.
Can I stay off-site and get a discount?
No. The Mountain Songwriting Retreat is an all-inclusive immersive program.
What if I have a special diet or special needs?
Meals are served family style at Capon Springs but we can make special arrangements to provide options to meet many dietary restriction. We also have options to assist with various special needs or mobility issues. Please let us know at the time of registration if you need any special consideration or assistance.
Is anything not included in the “all inclusive” price?
Your tuition includes the workshops, private room with bath, 3 all-you-can eat meals each day, and most amenities including the par 3 golf course. There are additional charges if you choose to play the regulation golf course, use the spa services, or get snacks between meals.
Who is presenting the retreat?
Mountain Recording Retreat is presented by Recording Boot Camp, a company founded in 2003 by producer-engineer, Ronan Chris Murphy (King Crimson, Jamie Walters, Martin Sexton, Steve Morse, et. al.). Recording Boot Camp has been on the cutting edge of alternative recording education, creating the first audio blog / podcast and creating many education events around the globe.
Can I bring a spouse or family member?
Attendees may bring one non-participating spouse. The cost for them is $797. Non-participants are welcome to join in all meals and social activities, but may not attend any of the workshops.
What is the food like (and dietary restrictions)?
Capon Springs food is fantastic. Meals are served family style and is mostly based on traditional country cooking, using many of the same recipes for the last 60 years (and some of the same cooks for decades). For guests with special dietary needs, the resort will do their best to accommodate them, but those with very rigid dietary restrictions might want to have some back up options in case the available options do not fit your needs.
What is the cancellation policy?
Because of the high costs involved with presenting this event and our desire to keep class sizes small and costs extremely affordable, if you think you are likely to cancel we recommend you wait to sign up and take the chance that there will still be space and sign up closer to the start date or look into trip insurance.