A travel advisory is in effect for Highway 1 to our north. Learn more about repairs at the baths.
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Learn more.

Due to road closures along Highway 1 to our north and south, Esalen is closed through April 11.
Esalen Institute is open! However, Highway 1 to the south is closed — please review the current travel advisory.
past workshop

Songwriting from the Heart: Opening the Creative Channel

November 6–10, 2023

Johnsmith and Julie Baker Chouteau

Take your seat among other songwriters as we work to refine our songwriting tools. We will go beyond the basic nuts and bolts of the craft and take our skills to the next level. Get ready to develop the ability to translate your own life stories into well-crafted, heartfelt songs. Through writing exercises, song assignments, performances, co-writing and demonstrations, the inner muse will be coaxed and cultivated. In a safe, supportive, fun workshop climate, we’ll share and receive constructive feedback on our works in progress.

Discover and expand your boundaries and edges around the songwriting process, and bridge inspiration and craft. At week’s end, the group will share its songs, new and old, with the Esalen community.

This workshop is for individuals who have experience in songwriting and are working on refining their musical voice. You should have written some songs and be able to perform them from memory prior to attending this workshop. Bring your musical instrument and dress casually — we will do some dancing and moving. There will also be evening jams. Simple recording devices are strongly encouraged. Bring an open heart and a curious mind.

Johnsmith

Wisconsin songwriter Johnsmith has won several awards, including the Kerrville, TX, New Folk and Great Lakes Songwriting Contests. He teaches songwriting at festivals, song camps, and Big Sur, CA’s Esalen Institute. He’s been featured on the elite NPR program New Dimensions.

Full Bio

Julie Baker Chouteau

Julie Baker Chouteau, is a psychotherapist specializing in the cultivation of authenticity, navigating life transitions, and trauma recovery. She works with creative process as an expression of one’s inner landscape. She has a private practice in Sausalito, California.

Full Bio