January 8, 2013 > Songwriters' retreat Songwriters' retreat Submitted By Michael McNevin If you're a songwriter, or ever wondered how you might do at it, a retreat is a great chance to pursue the craft. WinterSongs West is a five-day gathering for songwriters that will take place at the spectacular Camp Ocean Pines overlooking the Pacific in Cambria, CA, from January 24 to 28. The legendary Bob Franke and new pal Michael McNevin will be joining the group, as well as old favorites Rebecca Troon, Dale Laduke, Severin Browne, and Penny Nichols. Instructors will be offering an all-levels buffet of classes in songwriting, guitar, singing, harmony, performance, and more in addition to a full menu of concerts, coffeehouses, and song circles. Students and teachers alike will share songs, information, insights, trade stories, and perform for the community. And don't forget - the students bring a wealth of information and experience too, so be prepared for lots of great information-swapping! Whether an old hand, or brand new, the camp gives you a fresh look at songwriting, with nothing but time and support and inspiration all over the place. It's a wonderful place with wonderful people to hang with and get the juices flowing. Beauty, music, songwriting, meals, friendship, ocean lodging, artistic emulsion - it's a blast, a truly transformative time for everyone involved. Check out the campground, cabins, walkways, ocean views, and the rustic outbuildings for hanging out, jams, songwriting classes, cafe concerts, evening concerts, and communal meals at: http://campoceanpines.org. The cost is $499 for five days of music, meals, and lodging. Plan to arrive by 3 p.m. on Thursday, January 24 and leave by noon on Monday, January 28. For more details visit www.summersongs.com. Ready to register? Go to http://summersongs.com/newregistration.htm. WinterSongs West Thursday, Jan 24 - Monday, Jan 28 Camp Ocean Pines 1473 Randall Dr., Cambria (845) 594-1867 http://summersongs.com Cost: $499