Harmony Within: A Journey of Songwriting and Reconnection
With Samantha Parton and Leah Abramson
August 26 - 31, 2026
The Harmony Within workshop explores songwriting as a journey of soulful reconnection to our creative source, and to self. Harnessing the power of music and words and focused, creative intention, we seek to illuminate, transform, and transcend what lies within.
Over the course of this immersive retreat, participants will learn to effectively articulate the hidden language of the heart through the magic and craft of songwriting.
With Cortes Island as our backdrop, you will be guided through new approaches to songwriting, honing your craft in a beautiful, inspiring setting. 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 both instructors. Evening jam sessions will give you the opportunity to share your songs in an intimate, supportive environment, fostering creative community while having fun. You’ll also have access to Hollyhock’s garden, hot tub, and sauna, with opportunities to explore the surrounding area by kayak, boat, and guided nature tours.
Whether you are just starting out in your songwriting journey, or seeking to deepen your existing practice, this course is for you.
You do not need to play an instrument to attend.
What You’ll Gain
- Techniques to help you push through writer’s block, self-doubt, and other limiting patterns, allowing you to dig deeper and access your creativity when you feel stuck
- Tools to help you kickstart your creativity and inspire your songwriting
- Expanded awareness of how melody, lyrics, chords, and form work together to create memorable songs
- The confidence to listen for your own unique lyric voice, trust your intuition, and articulate your ideas in a way that feels authentic, inspired, and original
- Connection and community with fellow songwriters
Who This Program is For
- Anyone who wants to develop a songwriting practice or deepen their existing practice
- Anyone who feels stuck or blocked and struggles to give themselves permission to be creative
- Anyone looking for a creative retreat in a serene natural environment
Why This Program Matters
- Time and space to devote to songwriting, in an inspiring natural setting
- Feedback on your work from experienced songwriters
- Permission to be creative in your day-to-day life
- Unplug and reconnect to your deepest self and creative source
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.
Presenters
Samantha Parton is a Vancouver native, best known as a founding member of acclaimed Canadian folk group The Be Good Tanyas. A singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, Parton formed the group in the late 1990s with Jolie Holland, Trish Klein, and Frazey Ford. Her songs have appeared in shows such as…
Learn more about Samantha Parton
Leah Abramson is a singer, songwriter, and composer whose work explores vocal harmonies, embodiment, and the intersection of humanity and the environment. Leah has released four albums of original music and has contributed to dozens of others as a songwriter and vocalist. After years spent touring and recording internationally as…
Learn more about Leah Abramson