Everything you ever wanted to know about the workshop...
Please know that we are still adding to our 2009 schedule, so check back often!

The Ultimate Songwriters Workshop is a brand new way to learn the craft of songwriting. Whether you are 12 and just learning to write or 92 and have been writing all your life - our goal is to bring several of our most helpful seminars into one location, while adding in some fun and excitement, too!

The workshop is founded by Leslie Wright Productions, instructed by Barbara Cloyd (hit writer of "I Guess You Had to Be There" by Lorrie Morgan), and hosted at the Ozark Mountain Hoe-Down in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Read more about everyone on the "About Us" page!

The main focus of the workshop is to get a diverse group of songwriters together for one purpose...to write better songs. Barbara is amazing with her unique instruction methods, and you'll learn more in one day with her than you would in an entire year on your own. She has a very "hands on" approach and involves everyone. Be prepared...she doesn't sugarcoat it! She's fantastic, and if you're looking to really excel as a songwriter I can't recommend anyone better to give you some insight. Read more about Barbara here!

The workshop is hosted at the Ozark Mountain Hoe-Down, which has held over 250 shows every year for the past 28 years. The Hoe-Down has been home to many artists who have gone on to become Nashville recording acts and hit songwriters. The theater will accommodate up to 600 songwriters and has a wonderful stage, sound, and lighting system for concerts. All that we ask is that there is no smoking or alcohol in the theater. Read more about the Hoe-Down here!

The location is in beautiful historic Eureka Springs, Arkansas. This town of about 2300 people hosts over 800,000 tourists every year....all without having a single stoplight in the entire town. If you've never been to Eureka Springs, you'll fall in love with it immediately. It's a step back in time, nestled in the Ozark Mountains, and known as "Little Switzerland". Stay in any one of the many motels, or hide out in a luxury cabin or bed and breakfast suite. The choices are endless, and the town is honored to have you as our guest! Read more about Eureka Springs here!

The workshop will feature instruction and seminars by Barbara Cloyd. These seminars will give all songwriters the opportunity to hear a ton of helpful information on improving their songwriting skills, as well as how to get their songs in the right hands. She'll explain how things work and show you the right way to pitch your material so you have the best chance at getting your songs cut.

All participants will be given the opportunity to have their songs heard and critiqued by Barbara Cloyd and Steve Bloch. At least a verse and chorus of each song will be played. This is one of the most valuable experiences of our workshop. It's a very laid back, personal, and fun time where minds are open and opportunities are endless. This is where 2008 participant Steve Johnson turned heads with his song, "White Crosses" and signed with publisher Steve Bloch.

Another important seminar you won't want to miss will be the "How to get your songs on the web" seminar. Leslie Wright will be there explaining all the ins and outs of Internet Marketing and will also offer huge discounts for anyone that purchases a website/hosting plan during the workshop! Credit cards, checks, and cash will be accepted!

In addition to seminars and critique sessions, there will be plenty of other things to do! When you arrive on Friday, come in for orientation at 5pm , and get free addmission to the Ozark Mountain Hoe-Down music show at 8pm! Also, from 10am to 7pm each day, the Hoe-Down has opened their deck to all songwriters! You're welcome to come out and jam as much as you want to during these hours. You never know who could be listening!

Lastly, one of the most fun times is the last day of the workshop. Our friends Buzz and Charlotte Houston have opened their lake house to all participants once again, and we can't wait to show you how to have a great time "Ozarks style." You can whip around on jet skis, cruise along in their pontoon boat, learn to waterski, tube, swim, fish, or just sit on their personal dock and enjoy fresh air and great music.

After we've soaked in the sun for a few hours, it's time to head back to the Ozark Mountain Hoe-Down for a very special opportunity you won't get at other workshops. You'll be entertained by our hit songwriters in a personal "in the round" acoustic session, as they sit on the stage and show off some of their past hits and new ones to come. There's nothing formal about this session, and they love to visit with you about their experiences in songwriting, too. Ask questions, drink coffee, and enjoy having number one songwriters right at your fingertips.

This unique workshop is unlike any you've ever experienced. You'll be getting several workshops jam packed into one trip, get to perform your own songs, listen to successful songwriters, and make a ton of new friends that could end up being your partner on your next hit song! This is one event you WON'T want to miss!

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