Harmony Within: A Journey of Songwriting and Reconnection

Songwriting is a powerful tool for self-expression and connection with our deepest thoughts and feelings. The Harmony Within workshop explores songwriting as a medium, a practice, and a journey through which we can reconnect with our creative source, our vulnerability, and our inner wisdom, harnessing the healing power of music to illuminate, transform, and transcend what lies within. Exploring the relationship between lyrics, music, and form, participants will learn to effectively articulate the hidden language of the heart and soul through the magic and craft of songwriting.

With beautiful Cortes Island as our backdrop, participants will hone their craft while seeking inspiration in the environment and within themselves. Daily instruction combined with group activities such as soundwalks, breathwork, free writes, and prompt-based exercises are designed to inspire reflection, help you break through creative blocks, and uncover your authentic, intuitive creative voice. Each day will include group and solo writing time, and all participants will have access to one-on-one sessions with Sam and Leah. Evening jam sessions will give participants the opportunity to share their songs in an intimate, supportive setting, fostering creative community while having fun.

Open to all levels of experience, including beginners. You do not need to play an instrument to attend.

Learning Objectives

• Learn how melody, lyrics, chords, and form work together to create effective, memorable songs.
• Learn to listen for your own unique lyric voice, trust your intuition, and articulate your ideas in a way that feels authentic, inspired and original.
• Learn techniques to help you push through writer’s block, self-doubt, and other limiting patterns in order to dig deeper and access your creativity when you feel stuck.

Program Highlights

• Group activities such as soundwalks, breathwork, improvisation, and free writes to help kickstart your creativity
• Daily lessons combined with co-writing and solo writing time
• On-on-one tutorials with Sam and Leah
• Time and space to devote to songwriting in an inspiring natural environment

Testimonials

“The workshop helped me place more importance on my writing and making sure I give it the time and energy I should. I learned tools to bring out my creativity, so I don’t just wait for it to hit me – I can consciously work at it so I can write more often.” – Past participant

“Highlight: the opportunity to engage in creative artistry in a community of fellow musicians. Hollyhock took care of our physical needs (food, spa, comfortable accommodation) and our presenters fueled our creativity. It was such a wonderful experience.” – Past participant

Daily Schedule

A detailed schedule will be emailed to you about 30 days prior to your program. Click here to view a sample program schedule.