September 10-13, 2026
Music pro, Matt Vander Boegh, made a video documenting the NWSW experience. He captured the the heart of NWSW beautifully. Thanks Matt! Check it out below.
NWSW is NOT for EVERYONE
If you've mastered the music industry, have nothing left to learn, and are unwilling to collaborate with other creatives with humility, NWSW is NOT for you.
BUT
If you're aspiring to elevate your art and creativity, while developing and strengthening authentic relationships, then join us at the NorthWoods Songwriters Retreat.
This isn't your typical retreat. There's not a ton of 'down time' - you can do that at home! At NWSW, you’ll be put in real-world music industry situations. Learning to write with others, write with and for artists, and to REAL "briefs" (opportunities for YOUR music in upcoming films and TV shows) has been a game-changer for lyricists, artists, and producers. This weekend offers the perfect environment to take your craft to the next level.
The real-time hot seat might not sound like something you want, but we promise, you’ll also be surrounded and supported by people with the same dream. It’s a safe place to grow! The NWSW team hopes that you embrace the opportunity to collaborate with other passionate creatives and propel your musical dreams forward.
Together Forward
This is a lifestyle.
Tucked away in the NorthWoods of Wisconsin, at a lakefront facility designed around inclusiveness and creativity, the NorthWoods Songwriters Retreat is an immersive experience led with vulnerability, transparency, & authenticity.
A Little Background
The Northwoods Songwriters Retreat started as a dream to assemble creatives from all over the world and all walks of life, at a beautiful location in Wisconsin.
Founders James and Jill Kocian partnered with their friends and founders of Camp Daniel and the inaugural retreat was held in September of 2023. Read more about James and his music at JamesKocian.com.
Industry pros work together with attendees during this fast-moving, fun-filled weekend.
Each attendee prepares something to share with the large group. We believe everyone has something to give, insights to offer from their own triumph or tragedy that inspires others.
At our core, the NWSW team believes we are all on a journey that is meant to be traveled together. We find hope and encouragement in helping one another in our growth, and understand the importance of first banding together, then moving forward - together.
Yes, we are continuing to learn and refine the art and craft of professional songwriting - but beyond that we are expanding our tribe of creatives who share our vision. We invite you to join us and experience an event unlike any other as we ascend.
Together forward.
