Led by ASCAP songwriter Jim Ritchey and Grammy Award winning songwriter Laurelyn Dossett, the Songwriter Retreat at Twin Falls Resort State Park, November 4 – 6, 2022 is remarkable, says Programmer Coordinator Tammy Cooper. The retreat requires preregistration and is open to the public.

The workshop is designed for songwriters of all levels but will be particularly helpful for those who have written songs already and wish to perfect their craft. Everyone is encouraged to bring a guitar or other instrument, however, playing an instrument is not a prerequisite to attend. Sessions will cover topics including creativity, songwriting techniques, collaboration, music business basics and many other related subjects. Participants will have multiple opportunities to write during the weekend as well as to share their songs.

The Songwriter Workshop package includes a variety of accommodation choices. The package price of $169.00 for one person includes two nights lodging at Twin Falls lodge, the workshop fee, lunch on Saturday, breakfast on Sunday, and break refreshments. For the workshop only, without overnight accommodations, the price is $90.60 per person. Workshop size will be limited and advance reservations are required.

To sign up for the workshop or for more information on rates and accommodations call Twin Falls Resort State Park at (304) 294-4000.

About the Instructors
Jim Ritchey became a professional songwriter in 1976 when Texas artist Rusty Weir recorded his song “Coast of Colorado” on the Black Hat Saloon album. Since then, Ritchey’s songs have been recorded by many artists including Kenny Rogers on The Gambler album, Mickey Jones, BeJae Fleming, Kelley Hunt and most recently the late Ann Rabson on her final CD Not Alone. Ritchey has taught songwriting workshops at colleges and universities across the country as well as the Augusta Heritage Festival in Elkins, WV. He lives in Greensboro, NC.

Singer/songwriter Laurelyn Dossett lives and writes in the piedmont of North Carolina and her songs tend to reflect the stories of the region, both traditional and contemporary. Her song credits are numerous and impressive and include “Anna Lee”, recorded by Levon Helm on his Grammy winning CDs Dirt Farmer and Live at the Ryman and Leaving Eden, the title track of the Carolina Chocolate Drops’ Grammy Winning 2012 release. In addition, she wrote songs and original music for five plays at Greensboro’s Triad Stage and composed and performed “The Gathering”, a holiday song cycle commissioned by the North Carolina Symphony in 2011. Laurelyn has taught songwriting and singing at the Augusta Heritage Center and at many universities, workshops, and festivals.

About Twin Falls Resort State Park
Set in the rugged mountains of Southern West Virginia, Twin Falls Resort State Park is the ideal site for nature seekers. Visitors to Twin Falls can enjoy overnight accommodations ranging from a 47-room lodge located on the mountain top to secluded cottages or spacious camping sites at the campground.

Leisure activities at Twin Falls include an 18-hole, Par 71 championship golf course, twelve scenic hiking and biking trails, disc golf, picnicking, a full-service restaurant, in-door guest swimming pool, or just relaxing with a piece of history at the Pioneer Farm.

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