Back in May 2014, my frequent songwriting collaborator and old friend Gordy Quist (of the Band of Heathens) and I hosted our first Songfarmer™ workshop.
13 folks from all over the country joined us at beautiful location on Lake Travis, west of Austin. Some were just beginning to write songs and some had been writing songs awhile.
We traded notes in discussions about what works- and doesn’t work- for each of us, and ways we’ve been able to get more and better songs. Judging from our own experience, and from the feedback we got after the weekend, it was a big success, so we hosted another retreat for another group of folks in November 2014.
Even more good things came from that weekend, including the release of a book and an app based on the workshop principles, so we’re doing it again- this time on the weekend of November 20-22, starting on Friday night and wrapping up on Sunday morning.
If you are interested in working with a small group to find ways to write more and better songs- and you will write at least one new song- consider joining us for the weekend. Until September 31, the workshop registration is available at an early bird rate.
You can register or find out more details here, or feel free to just email me any questions you might have.
Onward,
OT
More reviews on past workshops:
As a participant in the initial Songfarmer retreat with Owen Temple and Gordy Quist, I was extremely pleased with the organization and supportive environment that was created for the weekend.
It was obvious from the start of the retreat, that Owen and Gordy had put in countless hours to create an environment that would cater to the amateur musician, and at the same time, offer professional artists am opportunity to hone their songwriting craft.
It was wonderful to be around so many individuals that shared the same passion for songwriting and music that I possess. Breaking into small groups, and working with established artists was my favorite part of the weekend. Lectures were tremendously informative, and the contents of which were applicable to each artist in attendance.
I would highly recommend this retreat to anyone interested in furthering their abilities as a songwriter. The facilities on the Pedernales River were spectacular and the food was prepared by a local chef, and it goes without saying that I was never left hungry.
I look forward to the next song farmer retreat and late evenings where we assemble in large groups for a song swap forum.
High marks on this one fellas!
-Matthew L.
I attended the inaugural Songfarmer recently. I highly recommend this for amateurs and professionals alike. Whether you are looking to add some new tools to your songwriting toolbox or you are a pro looking for some fresh insights, this accomplishes both. The two hosts, Gordy Quist and Owen Temple are highly successful and experienced songwriters. Their generosity in sharing their knowledge and skill without reservation was truly humbling. Sharing songs and “laying it out there” can be an intimidating undertaking. Not here, the environment was so supportive, positive and calming it provided a framework everyone felt comfortable in. The location was a beautiful place with a fantastic host/hostess. The food was amazing as well. Professionally catered food served with the same care as the music! The preparation Gordy and Owen put in must have been daunting. It was delivered effortlessly with great humor and passion.
-Rusty R.