La Cerisaie was once again the venue for a five-star songwriting retreat in 2025. There are many songwriting retreats, but we like to think this one is a bit different! There is of course the luxury Chalet with ensuite bathrooms and a very spacious dining room, living rooms, jacuzzi and terrace overlooking the famous Sixt waterfalls. And of course, the renowned cooking of Pablo supplemented by the neighbours Pizza barn evening!
But for the musicians the real difference comes from having the Dunwell Brothers songwriting alongside as well as three top music producers turning all of the creative output into semi-finished tracks by the time the five days is over.
The retreat takes place in a mountain village called Sixt Fer a Cheval which is an ancient farming community surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and the world-famous waterfalls. An inspiring place for musicians to create outstanding music.
The week is designed to ensure:
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All 10 musicians (maximum) collaborate with each other.
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Group work is done in trios or quartets (groups of 3 or 4).
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Facilities available:
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Chalet and garden studio equipped with:
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Active speakers
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Microphones
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Three pianos
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Guitars (as needed)
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Full kit for recording high-quality audio
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Daily schedule:
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Work begins at 8am and can continue late into the night.
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Meals include:
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A buffet lunch
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A large, shared dinner around a big table
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Outcomes:
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Lifelong friendships are often formed.
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At the last retreat:
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18 high-quality songs were created
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Genres ranged from pop to bluegrass.
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Who is the retreat for?
The songwriting retreat is intended for semi-professional and professional musicians. Our previous attendees have included Grammy award winning songwriters as well as very gifted individuals who enjoy songwriting but have not necessarily written many before. However, places are limited and the retreats are always over-subscribed so you might be asked to show your previous work and experience before being accepted onto the retreat.
It is a very inclusive and sociable week where everyone feels comfortable and inspired by the group and surroundings. At the end of the week we celebrate with a listening party and we give an impromptu concert in a local pizza restaurant.
It is priced to enable all musicians to take part whatever their background and means. If this sounds interesting to you please contact Millie and let her know!