HUCO SONGS: Port Austin Artist in Residence Songwriting Retreat Weekend
Huco Songs is a creative retreat for songwriters and artists who want to connect—with their craft, their voice, and a community of songwriters.
Set in the peaceful, inspiring town of Port Austin, MI, the weekend offers time to write, share, and grow alongside fellow creatives. Whether you’re a seasoned songwriter here to finish that one song, an aspiring songwriter or simply want to listen and be moved by the power of music and community, Huco Songs is for you. Expect songwriting workshops, song circles, live sharing moments, and plenty of space for reflection. All levels welcome. Bring your stories, your voice, and your open heart.
2025 Instructors:
Nicholas James Thomasma
Jen Sygit
Provided Food:
Fri - Taco bar (dinner only)
Sat - Pizza buffet (dinner only)
Sun - Pastries and fruit (breakfast only)
All Weekend - Coffee and various teas
Lodging:
There are a lot of Air BnB’s, motels and cabins in Port Austin. All events are within walking distance of the Bee Barn located at 20 Washington St.
Schedule:
Friday
12:00pm - Registration and check in opens, free writing time
6:00pm - Introduction and Welcome by Nicholas James (Workshop #1)
7:00pm - Dinner (included)
8:00pm - Songwriting with Jen Sygit (Workshop #2)
9:00pm - Song Circle
Saturday
9:00am - Coffee, pastries, fruit
10:00am - Songwriting with Jen Sygit (Workshop #3)
11:00am - Lunch Break
1:00pm - CoWriting with Nicholas James (Workshop #4)
2:00pm - Songwriting with Jen (Workshop #5)
3:30pm - Break
5:00pm - Showcase Set Up and Pizza (included)
6:30pm - Playhouse Doors Open
7:00pm - Showcase Concert at Port Austin Community Playhouse
10:00pm - Campfire Jam at Bee Barn (weather permitting)
Sunday
9:00am - Coffee, pastries, fruit
10:00am - Sound Bath by Beth from Centered by Sound
12:00pm - New Song Presentations
2:00pm - Hugs and Farewells
What to bring:
Guitar or other instruments for jamming and songwriting
Lawn chair (we have plenty of chairs)
Notebook and pen (or other writing tools)
Cooler and beverages (adult or otherwise)
Snacks and/or meals
Bathing suit (we are 3 blocks from Lake Huron)
Warm clothes (for evenings around the fire)
Rain coat (just in case)
Umbrella (again, just in case)
Merchandise (for sale or trade)
Business Cards (for networking)
$$$ for local shopping and Farmer’s Market (We are just a few steps away from the Farmer’s Market on Saturday morning.)
Pillow, blanket, yoga mat for Sunday morning Sound Bath
🎶 Huco Songs. Where creativity meets community.
Let’s write something beautiful—together! Participation is limited to 15 guests. Register now!
Also check out other Workshops in Port Austin, Music events in Port Austin, Arts events in Port Austin.
