WINTERBREAK RETREAT

LOOSE ACOUSTIC MUSIC RETREATS

As enjoyable as music is to listen to, it's even more exhilarating to make. Especially when you nail that run you've been working on for weeks ... or master the picking pattern that's been running through your brain … or get up at an open mic and deliver the song you just wrote.

"It's not about being a pro or a virtuoso. It's about making music that comes from your heart and satisfies your soul. If others love it too, that's just gravy." David A. Lusterman (publisher Acoustic Guitar)

Have you wever wondered what it would be like to sit around and swap experiences with nationally and Internationally acclaimed singers, songwriters or musicians for a few days? Can you imagine what you would learn and the buzz you'd feel?

Based loosely on experience gained from successful North American retreats, Loose Acoustic Music Retreats will give you that experience, while you upgrade your skills, make new friends, relax and enjoy yourself, it is designed for you!

Winterbreak - small beginnings

The first retreat was run for 3 nights in 2010, popular request saw this expanded the following year to 5 days. This retreat known as "Winterbreak" runs in the beautiful setting of Mount Tambourine in South East Queensland. So successful have the past retreats been, we have been asked to offer this amazing experience to musicians and interested people in other States - plans are underway for Tasmania (my home State), New South Wales and South Australia.

"Winterbreak" will be back in June 2012 with yet another inspiring entertaining fun five days. Still at the Tambourine venue (can't go past good food) over the June long weekend (7th - 11th). You will enjoy a series of music and songwriting workshops, skill sharing and collaboration with professional International and nationally acclaimed artists.

Don't be a couch potato during winter, dust off your winter blues at "Winterbreak 3"

WHATS BEEN SAID ABOUT WINTERBREAK:

"Hi Steve. Many and sincere thanks for the Winterbreak experience on the weekend.
I had a real shift within myself and with my music, awesome. And I simply had a lot of fun!
The other huge gift is the new friends I have made :).
See you on Sat night, I'll bring some others along too.
Cheers."Jeffrey.

Love it!! What a weekend :)

I really enjoyed working with/alongside you and I hope we can do more in the future!
I love your spirit and your ethic and I really want to continue to be part of your mad musical mission and vision. So keep me posted.
hugs & love Lisa.

Hi guys and gals, Here's the pics from Meeting room 3 which feels like a sacred space to me now..... :) Thank you all for providing such a safe and accepting space --- and an honour to have been in that room with you witnessing so many miracles.
Ann

Hi Steve, I just wanted to thank you again for a fantastic long weekend. As I left the mountain to the soundtrack of Greg's CD playing in my car, I realised I had changed.
Thank you for helping me find my passion for creativity again... and for providing a fabulous mini-break! It was a beautiful venue, a gorgeous mix of people and a wonderful learning experience. And even though I didn't actually end up attending any songwriting classes... I've come away with a whole bunch of new tools to help with my writing. So, yeah... just wanted to say thanks. Hope to see you at the gig this Saturday.
Megan.

Hi Steve, Thanks for the opportunity with Winterbreak... It was great to spend a long weekend with you... But, it was a blast.... I was impressed with the result achieved out of the weekend by the attendees speaks volumes for your concept and ability to deliver... Hope you found as much inspiration in Winterbreak as I did and will now apply yourself over the next 12 months exploring your own creativity.... cheers,
Dave.

Dear Steve, BLESS YOU for organizing such a nourishing 'EVENT' with such soul and integrity).Having participated in the Winterbreak Music Retreat,

• I feel inspired to create songs which embrace greater beauty and brave new expression.
• I am determined to become more competent and confident with my guitar skills.
• I shall reorganize my schedule to accommodate my need to learn and grow as a songwriter and performer. Every hour is precious with potential.
• I now have a burning desire to REALLY LISTEN to the music I love!
• I feel there is greater hope for humanity, and that music really does have the potential to uplift the world!

   

  The thought that I may be able to experience the Retreat again next year (with some of the same fabulous Souls)greatly inspires me to achieve my Goals! Whoops! Thinking in RHYME!
  It must be TIME to say a big THANK YOU to you Steve, and also to Susanna, Lisa, Greg, Steve B., the lovely Shelley, and Dave the Sound Man, and indeed, everyone who attended!
  I Love you guys!
  Rhonda X.

  Hey Steve, Many thanks once again for your generosity of spirit and the opportunity to take part in Winterbreak. I had a great time and would love to be involved again, so please keep me on your list of future likely contenders!
  See you soon,
  Steve B.

  Hi Steve, a very big thanks for organising Winterbreak –just an awesome experience.
  I feel profoundly moved by the learning and self discovery --- who'd have known attending a music workshop, would result in such deep personal growth?
  I still feel a bit of an exhausted and emotional wreck, and simultaneously elated.... Your joyous, positive and somewhat cheeky personality and lousy (Just poking you) sense of humour was just right to keep things running and light-hearted amongst all the serious business. Congratulations to you and all the tutors – the quality and generosity of all the tutors – Steve, Greg, Lisa, Susanna, Dave, Shelley was excellent and so much appreciated from this end.
  Ann.

  

  WINTERBREAK 2012

  "Winterbreak 2012" will be awesome. Three tutors have been finalised (more to come) and we are priveleged to have six amazing International talents - Andy White (Ire / Aus), Richard Gilewitz (USA), Susanna Carman (Aus / USA), Angela Hyrniuk (Aus/Can) and Penny Larkins & Carl Pannuzzo (Aus) - see their bio's below for more info.

  THE PROGRAM

  The program will vary a little from last year; you asked for more time to perform your songs and to work in ensembles - we'll deliver on that. Some will remain the same - start each day with a guided meditation (for those able to get up) follow two main interest areas for focused, progressive study. Enjoy your one-on-one sessions with the tutors, get immersed into ensemble rehearsals, and exciting 'taster' workshops "Getting in Touch with Your Muse" , "Creativity plus", and "Performance 101" panel session.

  There will be new features this year to keep everyone on their toes but the comfort and cameraderie will be as strong as ever.

  Who can attend?

  Songwriters, musicians and other interested people of all skill levels from all over Australia. Arrangements can be made for pick up from Brisbane airport.
  The number of participants will be limited to ensure your best retreat experience.

  All workshop materials will be provided but you will need to bring your own instrument.
  (Let me know if you play/want a keyboard).

  THE SETTING

  The setting is to die for! QCCC Tambourine facility at Mount Tambourine in the Gold Coast hinterland is set against a backdrop of rainforest, spectacular cliffs, running creeks and waterfalls.

  There is a range of indoor and outdoor workshop spaces, while the surrounds offer excellent walks and nearby open spaces.

  Accommodation is "motel style" dormitory units each with their own ensuite and lounge area. Units are carpeted and heated and accommodate up to 8 people in bunk beds.

  WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING

  • A great attitude for fun, sharing and learning and your own instrument.
    (if you need a keyboard, let me know).
  • blankets or a warm sleeping bag and warm clothing. It can get cool in the mountains (anytime of year) especially in June and especially for Brisbane folk!
  • a single fitted sheet, pillow, personal toiletries, a towel and a torch.

    THE COST

    The cost for "Winterbreak 3" will be $660.00 all inclusive.

    • There is an early bird booking fee of $560.00 for payments received by 9th March 2012.
    • If you've got a group together (say 5) let me know and ask for a group rate.
    • A 50% deposit is required to reserve your place.
      Full payment must be received by 30th May 2012.
    • Ask about reductions for non-wage earners and young people. A few part scholarships ($250) will be available.

      Note:

      • Your space is only reserved once payment is received;
      • Cancellations are subject to a $50 fee;
      • In the event the retreat is cancelled, full refunds will be made;
      • No refunds can be made after 25th May.

        To Register

        For forms, call 0403 124 200, or email info@looseacoustic.com.au,
        or download from www.looseacoustic.com.au

        You can pay by Credit Card, Cheque or Direct Debit. Cheques should be made payable to Loose Acoustic Enterprise and sent with your registration form to:

        Winterbreak Song Retreat
        Loose Acoustic Enterprise
        58 Hayward Avenue
        Cashmere Qld 4500

        Or (preferably) email the registration form, and pay by direct deposit to:

        Loose Acoustic,
        BSB 034 086,
        Account number 221917.
        (Please add your surname so we know who it's from).

        CLICK HERE TO FILL OUT ONLINE REGISTRATION FORM

        THE PRESENTERS FOR 2012

        RICHARD GILEWITZ (USA) - FINGERSTYLE GUITAR  http://www.richardgilewitz.com/index.html

        

        The most amazing guitarist – in the vein of Leo Kottke,
        Ry Cooder and John Fahey.

        "At times mesmerising, playful humorous, and wistful, Gilewitz is a master of moods when he speaks to his audience through his guitar. He is always at the service of his inner voice, which has a sneaky way of connecting directly to the listener's heart."
        Creative Loafing Magazine,Tampa BayFL

        Florida based Richard Gilewitz is today, acknowledged as one of the most unique and humorous performers on the contemporary acoustic scene, he is respected worldwide for his command of the 6 and 12-string guitar.

        His workshops are based on the idea that learning is an on-going process and should be an enjoyable experience. As a team member of several major instrument and sound manufacturers, Richard adds additional elements to the workshops, including valuable tips about selecting guitars and strings to developing a plan for a good sound system -- all part of helping players raise their skill levels.

        Often his workshops are a combination of insights into the world of acoustic guitar and sound reinforcement, plus lively interaction with the audience. Based on his extensive touring background in a real world environment and an average of presenting over 150 workshops yearly, Richard shares his knowledge from a number of avenues to encourage a life-long love of music.

        In workshops, he is the player's answer to overcoming common frustrations while increasing fingerstyle techniques, overcoming fears and insecurities, rekindling the passion for learning new guitar pieces, and rediscovering the joy of guitar! For the beginner and advance player.

        ANDY WHITE (IRE / AUS) - SONGWRITING   www.andywhite.com/

        

        Andy White is one of the great Irish singer-songwriters. A Belfast troubadour, he tours the world with his 12 string guitar in one hand and a book of poetry in the other. He has worked with the likes of Van Morrison, Mary Black, Peter Gabriel, the Frames and Tim Finn. He has won Ireland's top songwriting awards and toured the world many times over; he was included in the Irish HQ Rock Hall of Fame in 1998.

        He has been musical director at WOMAD UK and was invited to be in charge of the songwriting strand of the annual WOMAD Summer School in England. He has tutored at the UK Songwriting Festival and has recently returned from tutoring at the Winnipeg Folk Retreat in Canada.

        Melody Maker called him Belfast's Bob Dylan as he emerged in the new wave of acoustic music headed by The Pogues. "Folk Roots" magazine made him a cover star. His mix of pop sensibility, lyrical excellence, songwriting, political passion and social awareness come naturally to someone who grew up in Belfast during the 70s and 80s. His work has always reflected his time and place. In trying to make this particular experience universal, his writing incorporates and transcends the boundaries of his native land.

        As befits a man who rarely lets the grass grow under his feet for very long this songwriter, poet, author, producer and musician has travelled, recorded, played recited and produced in locations as diverse as Ireland, Switzerland, Singapore, South Africa, Canada, Italy, the Netherlands, the UK and his new hometown of Melbourne.

        Andy was introduced to Australia by Tim Finn inn 1994, he wrote the Sydney Olympics opening ceremony anthem 'Coz I'm Free' with Christine Anu, he moved to Melbourne in 2002, finding a new home and new inspirations.

        SUSANNA CARMAN (AUS/USA) - SONGWRITING/SINGING  www.susannacarman.com

        

        At festivals and in lounges and intimate venues across Australia and the U.S.A, singer-songwriter, storyteller and multi-instrumentalist, Susanna Carman, offers fans a 'One Woman Show' that combines catchy original songs with self-accompanied quality instrumentalism and amusing, poignant storytelling. Her songs and stories take audiences on a very satisfying journey that include travelogue, tragedy, tears and a few full-bellied laughs. All from a universal perspective that is inclusive and enjoyable for the young and old.

        Susanna Carman holds a B.A. in Contemporary Music, a Dip. Ed. in Secondary English, has guest lectured in Vocal Studies at Southern Cross University (NSW) and is the founder of Song Pathways, an organisation that delivers singing and song writing workshops to youth and adults in regional communities throughout Australia. She is also an award winning vocalist and acclaimed song writer whose albums and live performances have earned her praised reviews.

        "One of her winning factors is the flock of melodies that rarely sit there waiting for you to like them; they're too busy doing that cartoon birds-around-your-head thing.
        Bernard Zuel, Sydney Morning Herald

        "A great musician can change your mood and mindset within a few words and this is what Susanna Carman has definitely achieved...
        "Nada Van Kempen, Rhythms Magazine

        "If Paul Simon and Joni Mitchell had a child, I think she would sound like
        Susanna Carman.
        "Ellen Burgess, Rave Magazine

         

        PENNY LARKINS & CARL PANNUZZO (AUS)

        SINGING  http://www.potnkettle.com.au/

        Pot' n' Kettle came to the conclusion that they were exactly that after playing a beautifully intimate gig for an audience of 20 in an impeccable sushi bar in Castlemaine called Run Sushi Run. The audience were as taken by the out-takes as the in and as engaged by the energetic musings between these two as they were soothed and excited by their musical marriage.

        Since then, the harmony has only yet deepened and Penny Larkins and Carl Pannuzzo have decided to call themelves by their names, having been more widely recognised as the truthful and creative talents that they are in the world of folk and independent creativities. Their world-class musicianship is met with a humility that breaks down the stigma of the stage, such that their casual but considered and sometimes vulnerable offerings are received by an often captivated and private sense of audience.

        Among their own shows, festivals, house concerts and guest appearances, they have also supported the likes of Eddi Reader, Jose Feliciano, Nano Stern, Michael Kennedy and Simon Nield, who also for the most-part, recorded and played on their debut CD 'Black...and Blue'.

        Increasingly popular workshop facilitators and choir leaders, their generous and safe-space nature and energy has seen some beautiful results from many high profile events nationally, including the Sydney Childrens Festival, the Woodford Folk Festival Fire Event Choir, theDaylesford Singers Festival (all invited back for a 2nd year), many creative retreats such as Rhythmsong,Summersong and Wintersong, and more recently the Boite Schools Chorusand Melbourne Millennium Chorus massed choirs, 'Build-a-song' workshops for the ' Casey Sings' Winter Arts Festival and numerous 'Big Sing' workshops and guest facilitation invitations for great events such as Vocal Nosh and The Victorian Arts Centre kids program.

        Continuing to perform at festivals nation-wide and special artistic explorations such as the recent Quiet Music Festival, Punctum Inc's 'Inhabit'series at theAbbotsford Convent and Music for the Soul series, Penny and Carl consistently renew and develop their own creative merits as well as reflect superbly on their collaborations with other artists.

        Carl Pannuzzo (Totally Gourdgeous, Acapelicans, Checkerboard)and Penny Larkins (Salvation Jane, Aimless, Mamma Mia!) have arrived at this hotspot of creative co-operation from two very different journeys but golly, it's lucky they did.

        Creatively in performance they are now working beyond their rich and humble duo, in a plethora of genres!  In the last 2 years we have seen them being a dynamic harmony duo for Jo Jo Smith, the Zoe Frater Quintet and being the disco king and queen of Castlemaine in Uke N' Danceas well as the closing party of the Castlemaine State Festival. Dinner in a Dry Dam(for Punctum live arts) an exquisite entirely sung pocket opera for double bass and 2 voices saw them recently receive a standing ovation as part of The Big West Festival.The show is looking to continue touring in 2010 and beyond.

         

        ANGELA HRYNIUK (AUS/CAN) http://www.diamondthought.com/

        Artist as a Small Business/Morning Meditation  

        For 20 years Angela Hryniuk has been a practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism and for the last 16 a teacher of meditation. She has studied with the highest Masters of her lineage, including His Holiness the Dalai Lama. She has sat many individual and group retreats ranging from a single day to a month, and is a qualified Buddhist Minister/celebrant. She holds an Interdisciplinary Masters Degree, has been counseling and spiritually advising people for the past 30 years, and is currently based in West End in Brisbane.  She has four books of poetry and two CDs to her credit and has collaborated with some of Canada's top songwriters. In 2004 she organized and hosted the Dalai Lama’s Vancouver visit and has recently moved to Brisbane from Vancouver, Canada. She is an avid music lover.