Young Artist Retreat

A five-day immersive songwriting experience for artists ages 13–17

APPLY FOR SUMMER 2026

The Youth Songwriting Intensive is a five-day immersive program designed for young artists who want to explore songwriting in a focused, supportive, and real-world environment. Created for participants ages 13–17, the intensive offers a hands-on introduction to the creative and collaborative process behind writing and recording music.

Hosted in the California desert near Joshua Tree, the program brings together a small group of participants to work closely with professional, Grammy-nominated songwriters and musicians. Through guided workshops, collaborative writing sessions, and studio time, students are encouraged to develop their creative voice, build confidence, and better understand how songs come to life from idea to recording.

This experience is intentionally intimate and process-driven, allowing each participant the time and attention needed to grow creatively while connecting with peers who share a passion for music.

ABOUT

THE EXPERIENCE

Over five days, participants move through a thoughtfully structured creative process designed to mirror real-world songwriting and studio environments. Each day includes guided songwriting workshops, collaborative writing sessions, and dedicated studio time, allowing students to explore ideas, receive feedback, and develop songs at their own pace.

The program emphasizes collaboration, creative communication, and artistic confidence, while also introducing participants to the fundamentals of working within the music industry. Students gain exposure to professional creative workflows while being supported in an environment that values curiosity, experimentation, and personal growth.

What Participants Will Create

Throughout the Youth Songwriting Intensive, participants are guided through the full creative lifecycle of a song—from initial idea to final recording—working closely with professional, Grammy-nominated songwriters and musicians.

Participants will collaborate directly with mentors to write, refine, and produce an original song, gaining hands-on experience in melody development, lyric writing, arrangement, and vocal performance. Each song is recorded using professional studio equipment and industry-standard production tools, giving students real exposure to how music is made at the highest level.

Beyond the music itself, participants will also take part in content capture throughout the week, documenting their creative process through behind-the-scenes moments, studio sessions, and collaborative work. This allows students to walk away not only with a finished recording, but also with meaningful creative documentation of their experience.

By the end of the program, each participant leaves with:

  • A fully produced and recorded original song

  • Experience collaborating with professional songwriters and musicians

  • Exposure to high-quality studio equipment and recording environments

  • Creative content from the week reflecting their artistic journey

  • Greater confidence in their creative voice and process

The experience culminates in a final listening party, where each artist’s work is shared and celebrated in a supportive, community-centered setting.

MEET THE MENTORS

Nikki Flores

Nikki Flores is a two-time Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, producer, and vocal producer with over 15 years of experience working at the highest levels of the music industry. She has written and collaborated with artists including Christina Aguilera, Nas, ZAYN, JoJo, David Guetta, Hayley Kiyoko, AJ McLean, and The Midnight, and has contributed to multiple Billboard-charting projects. Known for her emotive songwriting and expert vocal production, Nikki brings a deep understanding of creative development, collaboration, and professional studio work. She is passionate about artist education and creating supportive environments for young creatives to grow with confidence and authenticity.

Artist Links

Maurice Moore

Maurice Moore is a songwriter, producer, and vocalist with multiple RIAA-certified plaques, earned through his work with major K-pop artists and global acts. His career spans R&B and pop, with collaborations including H.E.R., Chris Brown, Zara Larsson, Kehlani, and more. Known for his high-level production skills, vocal arrangement, and melodic development, Maurice brings an industry-forward approach to songwriting and recording. Beyond his credits, he is an exceptional mentor and teacher, offering hands-on guidance that helps young artists build confidence and bring their creative ideas to life.

Artist Links

Kayln

Kayln is a California-based singer-songwriter and powerhouse vocalist with a background spanning pop and country music. A graduate of the Musicians Institute of Contemporary Music, she received scholarships for her talent and was awarded Most Outstanding Vocalist in her graduating class. Kayln gained national recognition as a Top 24 finalist on Season 14 of American Idol and has since performed alongside artists including Keith Urban, Sheryl Crow, Elle King, Easton Corbin, and 98 Degrees. Known for her strong vocal ability, melodic instincts, and relatable songwriting, Kayln brings a supportive, confidence-building approach to mentoring young artists.

Artist Links

Participants stay on site for the duration of the program, creating a fully immersive creative environment where students can focus, collaborate, and connect without outside distractions. Each student is provided with their own bed and shared bathroom accommodations, along with access to comfortable common spaces for relaxing, writing, and spending time together.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are prepared and served daily, and meals are shared as a group to encourage community, conversation, and connection among participants. Dedicated staff and counselors are present throughout the program to ensure students are supported, supervised, and comfortable at all times.

LIVING & ACCOMMODATIONS

  • Main Kitchen

  • Primary Bedroom

  • Studio Courtyard

  • Outdoor Lounge Area

  • Guest House

  • Living Room

  • Guest House Kitchen

  • Guest House Restroom

  • Outdoor Showers

  • Cold Plunge

  • Studio B

  • Live Room

  • Sound Room

  • Outdoor Dining

COMMUNITY & EXPERIENCES

In addition to songwriting and studio sessions, the Youth Songwriting Intensive includes thoughtfully planned group activities designed to foster connection, creativity, and inspiration. Participants take part in guided group excursions, including a visit to Joshua Tree National Park, where students can experience the landscape that inspires so many artists.

Students will also take part in a special bonding experience with a group of friendly golden retrievers, offering a relaxed and joyful way to unwind, connect, and recharge creatively. These shared experiences help build lasting friendships and create a supportive environment where young artists feel comfortable expressing themselves and collaborating with others.

PROGRAM DETAILS

Dates: June 15–20, 2026
Location: Joshua Tree, California
Ages: 13–17
Tuition: $3,500
Cohort Size: Limited to 10 participants

Each participant’s admission includes on-site lodging and all meals, creating a fully immersive and supported environment throughout the week.

  • Priority Application Deadline: April 1, 2026


    Applications are reviewed shortly after this date. Applicants will be notified once evaluations are complete.

    Applications submitted after April 1st will be reviewed on a rolling basis, space permitting. Please allow up to two weeks for a response.

  • For students new to songwriting:
    Submit 1–2 original song ideas, even if they are unfinished. These can include short lyric excerpts, melodies, or rough recordings. The goal is simply to demonstrate current vocal, instrumental, or writing ability — not perfection.

    For students with more experience:
    Submit 1–2 complete original songs that showcase vocal performance, instrumental skills, and lyric writing. Simple demo recordings are completely acceptable.

  • All applicants should include:

    • A brief written description of their musical background and performance experience

    • A short written response describing their interest in the program

    • One short recommendation from a music teacher, instructor, or mentor who is familiar with the applicant’s musical abilities

  • Submissions are not competitive. They help us understand each applicant’s experience level and ensure that the group dynamic is supportive, balanced, and creative.

AUDITION & APPLICATION

REQUIREMENTS

READY TO APPLY?

Get Started

FAQs

9

Are parents allowed to stay on site?

1

Parents do not stay on site during the program so students can fully immerse themselves in the experience and build independence, confidence, and connection with their peers. However, we offer recommended accommodations in the surrounding area for families who wish to stay nearby. Parents are welcome to contact us directly and we will happily assist with booking options close to the retreat location.

Where do students stay?

2

Participants stay in comfortable on-site accommodations designed specifically for a safe and welcoming residential experience. Students are provided their own bed and shared living spaces with fellow participants, creating a supportive and community-oriented environment. Bathrooms are shared and maintained regularly, and staff are present on site at all times to supervise and assist as needed.

The residential setting is intentionally designed to feel structured, safe, and positive while still giving students the independence and confidence that comes from being part of a creative community.

Is there supervision?

3

Yes. Students are supervised at all times throughout the program by experienced staff, mentors, and on-site counselors who are present from morning through evening and remain available overnight. Our team maintains a consistent on-site presence to ensure students are supported, safe, and comfortable during all scheduled activities, meals, studio sessions, and residential hours.

Because the program is intentionally limited to a small group, our staff is able to provide individual attention and remain aware of each participant’s well-being throughout the retreat. We prioritize a structured, attentive environment where students feel secure, respected, and cared for while still enjoying the independence and creative freedom that makes the experience meaningful.

Families will receive contact information for staff prior to arrival so they can easily reach us if needed during the program.

What is the daily structure like?

4

Each day follows a structured yet flexible schedule that includes workshops, lessons, songwriting sessions, studio time, meals, and group activities. Participants are often placed into small breakout groups based on experience and creative interests so mentors can provide personalized guidance. The daily flow balances focused creative work with breaks, community time, and relaxed evening activities to keep students energized, supported, and inspired.

Are meals provided?

5

All meals are provided throughout the entire program, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks each day. Meals are thoughtfully prepared to keep students energized, nourished, and focused during their creative sessions. Depending on the day’s schedule, meals may be home-cooked by our team or prepared by trusted local caterers, and we often incorporate shared dining experiences such as group dinners and specialty spreads.

We also create memorable communal meal moments, including curated snack tables and occasional charcuterie boards that bring everyone together to relax, connect, and recharge. Mealtime is treated as part of the overall experience — a time for conversation, bonding, and creative inspiration.

Dietary needs and restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice so every student feels comfortable and cared for.

How do you ensure a safe environment?

6

Student safety and well-being are our highest priorities. The program operates on a structured daily schedule with supervised activities from morning through evening, led by experienced staff and mentors who are present on site throughout the entire retreat. Clear community guidelines are established at the beginning of the program to foster respect, collaboration, and a positive group dynamic. Students are never left unsupervised during scheduled activities, and our team remains available at all times to support participants and ensure a comfortable, secure environment.

What should students bring?

7

Accepted participants will receive a detailed packing guide prior to arrival outlining exactly what to bring. This list includes essentials, optional creative tools, and recommended items for comfort during their stay. We make the process simple and clear so families can feel fully prepared and students arrive ready to focus on creating.

What makes this program different from other music camps?

8

The Youth Songwriting Intensive is intentionally designed as a focused creative residency rather than a traditional camp. Instead of large classes or lecture-style instruction, students work closely with professional songwriters, producers, and artists in a small, hands-on environment that emphasizes collaboration, creative growth, and real-world experience.

Participants don’t just learn about songwriting — they actively write, produce, and record their own original music using professional-level equipment, guided step-by-step by industry mentors. By the end of the program, each student leaves not only with new skills and confidence, but with a completed original song and a deeper understanding of how music is actually created.

How does transportation work?

For participants traveling from out of town, the nearest airport is Palm Springs International Airport (PSP). Our staff can coordinate scheduled airport pickups and drop-offs for arriving and departing students. Transportation during the program — including local outings and group excursions — is always provided and supervised by our team.

Families will receive detailed arrival instructions, timing options, and coordination information prior to the program so travel arrangements can be planned smoothly and comfortably. Our goal is to make the arrival process simple, safe, and stress-free for both students and parents.