Folk Retreat
The 2012 Folk Retreat offers festival performers Abigail Washburn, Kai Welch, Martyn Joseph and Willy Porter as instructors for one-on-one coaching, group performances and a whole lot of fun.
No matter your age or your ability, join in on this hands-on, up-close discovery of folk music. You bring a love of music and a desire to learn, share and explore; we’ll bring the world-class musicians as instructors!
Click here to apply for the 2012 Folk Retreat
The Setting
The Folk Retreat returns to the relaxing First Unitarian Universalist Church of Winnipeg at 603 Wellington Crescent, nestled on the banks if the Assiniboine River.
The Experience
Feel the creative energy flow from the floorboards, thought the frets and into some fantastic friendships. You’ll have the opportunity to spend some quality time with your instrument in an environment designed to let your creativity flourish. Write a song, explore different instruments, and meet some new friends and jamming buddies!
The Timing
The Folk Retreat runs from Saturday, June 30 to Tuesday, July 3, 2012.
The Price
Folk Retreat participants save on their festival ticket!
Early Bird prices until June 1, 2012
- Folk Retreat (tuition, meals): $350
- Folk Retreat plus 2012 Winnipeg Folk Festival 5-day ticket: $475
- Folk Retreat plus 2012 Winnipeg Folk Festival 5-day ticket plus quiet camping: $510
- Folk Retreat plus 2012 Winnipeg Folk Festival 5-day ticket plus festival camping: $550
Price after June 1, 2012
- Folk Retreat (tuition, meals): $400
- Festival tickets available at regular prices and subject to availability.
Placement at the Folk Retreat is confirmed once payment is received. Applicants must print out the downloadable payment form from their online application and mail to:
Folk Retreat – Winnipeg Folk Festival
203-211 Bannatyne Ave.
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 3P2
Cancellations made before June 11, 2012 are subject to a $50 fee. No refunds are available after June 11, 2012.
Bursaries
We are pleased to offer a limited number of bursaries for Folk Retreat participants. Bursaries can range in amount and will be awarded to participants based on their financial need and commitment to their music.
Those applying for a bursary must submit their Folk Retreat application by May 15, 2012.
Accommodations
We’ve arranged accommodation through the University of Winnipeg’s Summer Hostel service at a rate of $50 per night. Participants will stay together in a newly renovated house that features a large number of private rooms and common living space.
Those requesting accommodation must have their Folk Retreat application submitted by June 15, 2012.
Meet the Instructors
Abigail Washburn (clawhammer banjo, songwriting)
One fateful day eight years ago, Abigail was offered a record deal in the halls of a bluegrass convention in Kentucky, which changed her trajectory from becoming a lawyer in China to a travelling folk musician. Her latest release City of Refuge showcases classic old-time storytelling aesthetic and blends timeless Appalachian and folk-pop, resulting in a collection of songs that are profound and beautiful.
Kai Welch (piano, guitar, songwriting)
Kai is a skilled pianist and world traveller. His experiences rock climbing, sailing the South Pacific, running rivers, and conducting private anthropological research are the breeding grounds for ideas and perspectives that inspire his songs. Kai has collaborated with many great musicians and songwriters, including Carl Broemel of My Morning Jacket, Bobby Bare Jr., The Greencards as well as Abigail Washburn on City of Refuge.
Martyn Joseph (songwriting, guitar)
One of acoustic music’s most arresting singer-songwriters, Martyn has been in demand on both sides of the Atlantic for over two decades. He’s seen some great achievements over the course of his 25-year career, such as five Top 50 UK chart positions, a BBC Welsh Music Award for Best Male Artist and tours with Art Garfunkel and Celine Dion. He has won fans everywhere with his uncanny fusion of feisty, complex numbers alongside stripped-down love songs.
Willy Porter (songwriting, flatpicking and finger work)
How To Rob A Bank, the latest release from the esteemed guitarist/singer-songwriter, showcases his ability to write a different combination of style, genre and musical form. Having toured with artists as diverse as Jeff Beck and Tori Amos, Willy capitalizes on his experience as a seasoned live performer on the new album. His musical knowledge is comprehensive and moves easily from rough-hewn electric edges into soulful irony with equal aplomb.