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The Hills Are Alive
Written By: Luke Osteen | Issue: 2021/08 – August
John McCutcheon’s Songwriting Camp is a hand-on approach to learning the traditions and innovations of folk music, August 8-12 at The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center. To register or for more information, visit themountainrlc.org/john-mccutcheons-songcamp.
John McCutcheon
If you’re not sure about the truth about the Hills Being Alive with the Sound of Music, you need look no further than The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center on August 8-12.
That’s when The Mountain’s offering John McCutcheon’s Songwriting Camp, open to anyone who’d like to learn the essentials of creating folk songs that resonate with the heart.
McCutcheon is a Grammy-nominated folk musician and songwriter and he’ll be leading an intense, intimate songwriting Master Class at The Mountain.
As an instrumentalist, he’s a master of a dozen different traditional instruments, most notably the rare and beautiful hammer dulcimer. His songwriting has been hailed by critics and singers around the globe. His 30 recordings have garnered every imaginable honor, including seven Grammy nominations. He has produced over 20 albums of other artists, from traditional fiddlers to contemporary singer-songwriters to educational and documentary works. His books and instructional materials have introduced budding players to the joys of their own musicality.
The four-day workshop will include:
Four days of both the theoretical and hands-on practice of songwriting.
The first day will be an exploration of traditional music and forms: the most solid basis for creating songs and narratives that both move and last.
John’s “kamikaze” songwriting drill: how to write quickly and clearly for specific events and issues.
A survey of other writers and a deconstruction of their techniques: Woody Guthrie, Bob Dylan, Guy Clark, Pete Seeger, Tom Paxton, Melvina Reynolds, Jean Ritchie, Bruce Springsteen, Stan Rogers, and others.
A workshop on song presentation and performance.
One-on-one critiques and “wood-shedding” with John.
Open-mic/sing-arounds each evening.
Q&A sessions with John.
Participants will also enjoy the spectacular grounds of The Mountain, and delicious homemade meals are included in the program.
To register or for more information, visitthemountainrlc.org/john-mccutcheonssongcamp
