The Cris Jacobs Retreat for Future Songwriters [final name tbd]

Date: Friday - Sunday, March 27, 28 and 29
Location: Manor Mill and Oldfields School

Welcome to the inaugural retreat in two amazing historic locations in rural Baltimore County, all dedicated to the art of songwriting. This retreat is designed to be a low-key, but intensive weekend to give you confidence in your writing, build skills, and surround yourself with like-minded individuals who love music. Whether you're just starting your songwriting journey or looking to refine your existing skills, these tracks offer tailored learning experiences, culminating in a super fun musical show.

60 spots available.

Cost: $750 before Dec 1. $900 after Dec. 1.
Includes lodging, meals, Friday night concert, Thursday evening open mic, and all sessions

Instructors

Cris Jacobs
Jordan Sokel of the Pressing Strings
Caleb Stine
Talbot Mayo
Additional instructors to be announced!

Class size will be 10-15 participants max. All classes will be held at Oldfields.

Friday

3:00 PM - Arrive / check in
4:00 PM - Kick-off + Orientation + Warmups
6:00 PM - Dinner
8:00 PM - Performance with public seating - Oldfields Theater

Saturday

CLASS SESSION CONTENT IS PLACEHOLDER

Morning Sessions: Laying the Foundations & Sparking Inspiration

  • Track 1: The Song Craft Lab - "Deconstructing the Hit: Structure & Form"

    • Beginner: Understanding basic song structures (Verse-Chorus, AABA). Identifying different song sections and their purpose. Learning how simple repetition builds impact.

    • Intermediate: Analyzing advanced song forms and variations. Mastering the pre-chorus build, effective bridge writing, and crafting compelling outros.

  • Track 2: The Lyrical Journey - "Hooking Your Listener: Concept & Theme"

    • Beginner: Brainstorming initial song ideas and finding a central concept. Developing a clear theme. Simple techniques for starting a lyric.

    • Intermediate: Developing unique and compelling core concepts. Exploring metaphor and symbolism in lyrical themes. Crafting an intriguing opening line and establishing a clear point of view.

  • Track 3: The Performer's Toolkit - "Vocal Confidence & Delivery"

    • Beginner: Essential vocal warm-ups and basic breathing techniques. Overcoming stage fright. Simple microphone handling and posture tips.

    • Intermediate: Enhancing vocal dynamics and emotional delivery. Connecting with the audience through body language and eye contact. Adapting performance for different acoustic environments.

  • Mid-Morning Refresh & Stretch Break

  • Concurrent Session 2 (Choose Your Track)

  • Catered Lunch

    • Enjoy a delicious and healthy lunch and hang with your pals. Drink good coffee.

Afternoon Sessions: Refining Your Voice

  • Concurrent Session 3 (Choose Your Track)

    • Track 1: The Song Craft Lab - "Rhythmic & Pacing"

      • Beginner: Understanding basic tempo and rhythm. How to fit words naturally into a melody's rhythm.

      • Intermediate: Exploring syncopation and rhythmic variation. Using rhythm to build tension and release. Crafting dynamic changes in tempo and feel.

    • Track 2: The Lyrical Journey - "Narrative Arcs & Emotional Depth"

      • Beginner: Crafting a simple story progression within a song. Conveying core emotions effectively.

      • Intermediate: Developing complex narrative arcs and character journeys. Exploring emotional nuance and subtext. Writing from different perspectives or personas.

    • Track 3: The Performer's Toolkit - "Demoing & Collaboration"

      • Beginner: The importance of a good demo. Basic tips for recording on a phone or simple device. How to prepare your song for sharing and feedback.

      • Intermediate: Introduction to basic home studio equipment and software. Best practices for collaborating with co-writers or producers. Giving and receiving constructive feedback effectively.

  • 2:30 PM - 2:45 PM: Afternoon reboot

  • 2:45 PM - 4:00 PM: Open Mic / Performance Preparation (All Participants)

    Participants sign up for a slot in the evening showcase. Group warm-ups and a supportive environment for individuals to rehearse their song. Instructors provide brief, encouraging feedback on performance elements. Brief individual sound checks for performers to get comfortable with the stage setup.

  • 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Final Prep & Transition to Showcase Area

    Performers can fine-tune their songs or mentally prepare. Non-performers find their seats and get ready to be an encouraging and appreciative audience.

Evening: Songwriter Showcase & Celebration

  • 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM: Songwriter Showcase & Performance (All Participants)

    Host Introduction then each registered participant performs one original song (finished or work-in-progress) in a supportive "open mic" style setting.

  • 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM: Dinner at Manor Mill
    Shuttle or drive to Manor Mill for dinner and a final performance

7:30 PM

Performance circle with host and instructors

Sunday

8:00 AM Breakfast

9:00 AM Session 1

11:00 AM Session 2
12:30 Lunch

1:30-3:00 Afternoon jam and/or collaboration time

Notes:

  • Flexibility: While tracks are recommended, participants can float between sessions if a topic particularly interests them, space permitting.

  • Materials: All necessary workshop materials, including handouts and songwriting prompts, will be provided.

  • Instruments: Participants are encouraged to bring their own acoustic instruments if they plan to perform or find it helpful for their songwriting process. A basic PA system with microphones will be provided for the showcase.